Visiting the Designers & Merchandisers of Tomorrow
I recently visited Arizona State University’s FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) program to tour their facilities, meet current students, and participate in a conversation about PXG Apparel and starting/running a clothing brand.
The first part of my visit included a tour of the various classrooms, machines, and specialized programs offered by ASU FIDM. In speaking with the students, I learned that some had interned at major design houses, and that this program continues to be a shining example of setting individuals up for success in a highly competitive industry.
This tour was followed by an hour-long sit-down with Dennita Sewell, ASU FIDM’s founding director and a current professor within the program. We discussed everything from my work experience growing up in Michigan to the PXG Apparel Pop-Up store. Each question was written with positive curiosity about my experience and PXG’s history as a developing brand, which I truly enjoyed!
Two key points I was keen to share with the students were:
- Having a good team is essential to growth, but it’s crucial to operate as lean as possible when capital is limited.
- Tangible skills and experience are important, regardless of the field being studied. For example, if a student’s focus/major is merchandising, understanding design processes, tech decks, and other relevant tools remains vital to being a standout candidate in the industry.
PXG has taken on interns from this program for 4 years, now – some of whom even became full-time employees! These students and graduates have been an integral part of our team, and we value having them at PXG as well as the opportunity to support ASU in this way. It was an honor to speak to the future of fashion, and I look forward to seeing what ASU FIDM and its students accomplish next!
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