In a pivotal move to empower women across various industries, PLC Detroit, the only historically Black college or university (HBCU) with a focus on design, is launching the transformative "Women In Industries" (W.IN @ PLC Detroit) program. An initiative that supports the original vision of the college and founder, Dr. Violet T Lewis, W.IN @ PLC Detroit is a strategic approach and framework designed to empower, support, and optimize the professional success and advancement of all women in industries.
The W.IN @ PLC Detroit program will be unveiled during the upcoming New Balance Certificate Program (IC), marking an eight-year partnership between the HBCU and New Balance that has proven highly successful. "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," says Dr. D'Wayne Edwards, PLC Detroit's president.
Focusing on PLC's core design disciplines – Apparel Design, Color & Material Design, and Footwear Design – the program will challenge design students to tackle a project centered on women in performance, designing for athletes, including the WNBA, across various 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.
Decades of studies show women leaders have a positive impact on the workplace. Research indicates that companies with more women in top management positions tend to be more profitable and innovative. This "girl power" effect is alive and well, with statistics to back it up.
According to a study by the American Psychological Association, companies led by women have a 19% higher return on equity than those led by men. The study found that women leaders are associated with "higher levels of organizational citizenship behavior, such as helping and supporting others." This translates to a more collaborative, supportive work environment.
Women are also making a significant impact in the design industry, particularly in the footwear sector. A study by Footwear News found that women account for 70% of footwear designers in the United States. Additionally, a report by the Fashion Institute of Technology found that women-led shoe design teams produce more innovative and commercially successful designs.
The design industry is recognizing the value that women designers bring to the table. Studies have shown that women designers are often more empathetic, collaborative, and attuned to the needs of diverse user groups. This makes them well-suited to create products and services that cater to a wide range of users.
"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 will run from August 26 to September 20, 2024, with PLC Detroit and New Balance covering the students' tuition and housing, ensuring that everyone wins. This commitment underscores the institutions' shared belief in the transformative power of women in design and their relentless pursuit to create a more equitable and innovative future.
As industries acknowledge the importance of women in design, initiatives like the W.IN @ PLC Detroit program play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of women designers and innovators. By empowering and uplifting women across various industries through women-centered design, PLC Detroit and New Balance are poised to ignite a revolution that will redefine the face of the design landscape.
To learn more about PLC Detroit's programs, visit here.
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