Vancouver, B.C. – This Friday, 10 talented product design students at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Wilson School of Design will showcase ideas that go beyond our imagination to serve remarkable real-world needs.
From the first graduating class of KPU’s product design program, on display will be a communication tool for autism support teams, the ‘365 Contender’ – which increases boxing training technique and efficiency – and a harness designed to enhance the performance of forest firefighters.
“I began my design education prepared to learn. What I didn’t realize was that I was to learn how to fail,” said student Kirsten Taylor. “Design is not about succeeding, but embracing struggles and constantly challenging yourself to learn from them and fall forward.”
The result of 10 students’ ‘falls forward’ will be featured at DUDOC, the Vancouver-based Dutch Urban Design Centre, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. Students and their families will also be on site after 5 p.m. for a private reception, however media is welcome.
The product designers’ ideas span a range of applications:
- Stephanie Chevrier, Richmond: Clothing for Climate Change explores what people would wear in a world ravaged by extreme weather
- Patricia Chu, Richmond: klima is a breast milk cooling thermos designed to make the lives of mothers and new families easier
- Carla de la Rosa, South Delta: In the Loop is a communication tool for autism support teams
- Matthew Newton, North Vancouver: 365 Contender fundamentally increases technique and efficiency in independent boxing training
- Terri Pan, Burnaby: Greywater Treatment explores the possibility of bringing affordable, greywater treatment to the masses
- Cara Tam, New Westminster: Fresh Kitchen addresses the impact of food waste caused by high cosmetic standards
- Kirsten Taylor, South Surrey: Hazmat offers protection for users in a world that is devastated by environmental and man-made disasters
- Scott Weng, Richmond: Yosuru Incontinence Brief discreetly allows seniors to age with dignity, and reduces the workload of caregivers
- Brianna Williams, Vancouver: Connective Intent is a temporary shelter turned platform for engagement and social interaction
- Jaymes Williams, South Delta: Modular Accessory Carrying Harness enhances the performance of forest firefighters
Photos from the kick-off industry reception held Wednesday evening are available here, as are details about the event and the student projects.
To learn about KPU’s bachelor of design in product design, visit kpu.ca/product-design.
About the Wilson School of Design
The Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University is a leader in design education, playing a significant role in shaping the design leaders of tomorrow. Located on Canada’s spectacular West Coast, the Wilson School of Design offers seven unique programs through certificate, diploma, bachelor’s degree, and post-baccalaureate qualifications. With its purposefully small class sizes, hands-on learning approaches, faculty expertise, direct connection with industry and the advanced technological resources, the School of Design instills a deep understanding of design thinking and the design process. For more information about the Wilson School of Design, please visit kpu.ca/design.
About Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has served the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 200,000 learners. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs in business, liberal arts, design, health, science and horticulture, trades and technology, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 120 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at kpu.ca.
Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca
For more KPU news:
@KPUmedia
kpu.ca/newsroom
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