PLC Detroit, the only historically Black college or university (HBCU) with a focus on design, is set to launch “Women In Industries” (W.IN @ PLC Detroit). This innovative product creation pathway centers on women-focused design across various industries, demonstrating a significant step toward empowering aspiring women designers. The launch of W.IN @ PLC Detroit coincides with the upcoming New Balance Certificate Program (IC), marking an eight-year successful partnership between PLC Detroit and New Balance.
The initiative, which echoes the vision of the college’s founder, Dr. Violet T. Lewis, aims to advance women’s professional success in design. Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, president of PLC Detroit, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the unparalleled access and training the students will receive from industry leaders. “By providing our students with unparalleled access and training from industry leaders, we’re equipping the next generation of women designers and innovators with the tools to thrive,” said Dr. Edwards.
Research supports the idea that companies with more women in top management positions tend to be more profitable and innovative. Specifically, in footwear design, women constitute a substantial portion of the consumer market, influencing trends and preferences. A survey from the Fashion Institute of Technology revealed that 75% of footwear purchases are made by women, yet women only hold about 25% of leadership positions within major footwear brands. This disparity highlights the need for initiatives like W.IN @ PLC Detroit to empower women designers and bridge this gap.
Women designers often bring unique perspectives to product development, making them more attuned to the needs of diverse user groups. Studies have found that women designers exhibit more empathy and collaboration, essential qualities for creating innovative footwear that resonates with consumers. A 2023 study by McKinsey & Company found that companies with more women in leadership roles experienced 20% higher profitability compared to their industry peers. Additionally, diverse teams were 45% more likely to report market share growth and 58% more likely to improve their team performance.
A 2023 Forbes report highlighted that companies with inclusive cultures are 120% more likely to meet or exceed their financial targets. The report also noted that diverse teams are 45% more likely to achieve success and 70% more likely to capture a new market. The W.IN @ PLC Detroit program embodies a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of female design leaders, creating products that resonate with women across industries.
The initiative will focus on PLC’s three core design disciplines: Apparel Design, Color & Material Design, and Footwear Design. Design students will engage in a project centered on women in performance, designing for athletes, including the WNBA, leading the charge across sports categories. Under the guidance of New Balance’s visionary designers and PLC’s industry expert educators, these aspiring designers will refine their skills, develop essential competencies, and gain unprecedented access to the thrilling world of sports design.
This hands-on learning experience will also enhance the students’ design skills and foster essential competencies, such as time management, professionalism, and leadership. The collaborative nature of the program will allow students to hone their craft and contribute to New Balance’s rich legacy of innovation and artistic expression. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the students and the brand, as diverse teams are more likely to produce innovative products that cater to diverse consumer needs.
Women designers possess a unique and powerful perspective that has the potential to transform industries. Through the W.IN @ PLC Detroit program, students have the platform to showcase their talents and contribute to leading the industry forward. The launch of the “W.IN @ PLC Detroit” initiative aligns with the growing recognition of the value of gender diversity in leadership. As industries acknowledge the importance of women in design, initiatives like this one play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of women designers and innovators.
“This partnership is a true testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication to empowering women designers,” said Dr. Edwards. “Together, PLC Detroit and New Balance are paving the way for the next generation of female design leaders to leave an indelible mark on the industry and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”
The “W.IN @ PLC Detroit” program is a concrete step toward empowering and advancing women’s professional success, paving the way for a future where women leaders continue to thrive and drive progress in their fields. The initiative, running from August 26 to September 20, 2024, will have PLC Detroit and New Balance covering students’ tuition and housing for the program, ensuring accessibility and support for all participants.
For more information, visit PLC Detroit.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
