At the KPU Wilson School of Design, our Technical Apparel Design program is rooted in solving problems most people haven't even noticed yet. You'll learn in a hands-on environment that pushes you to think like the industry does, working alongside faculty who bring current, practical knowledge of performance and technical apparel into every project. It's a focused course of study, built to move at the same pace as an industry defined by constant innovation — so what you learn stays relevant to where technical apparel is headed, and where your career can go.
Industry Collaboration
Vancouver sits at the centre of the technical apparel world, and that proximity informs everything about how our program runs. Our curriculum takes shape alongside companies like Arc'teryx, lululemon, and Mountain Equipment Company, so what you learn reflects what these companies need from the next generation of designers. You'll get access to guest speakers, project partnerships, and mentorship from working professionals through our Advisory Committee, keeping you close to the industry from day one.
Career Options
Technical apparel is booming in the Lower Mainland, and our graduates are ready for it. Every year, students are recruited by the three dozen technical apparel companies operating here, including established names like Arc'teryx, Global Collective, lululemon athletica, Mountain Equipment Company, Mustang Survival, and Sugoi. Other students take the connections they've built here and launch careers in the US or overseas.
You'll be ready to hit the ground running in research, design, product development, and manufacturing. Many graduates find their skills translate well into industrial design, healthcare, and launching their own products and startups. Every year, a number of our students go on to pursue graduate studies, continuing the applied research they started here. Learn more about what our alumni are up to.
Advisory Committee
Our Advisory Committee is made up of industry leaders whose experience keeps our program connected to where the field is headed. Here’s a list of current committee members.
