Would You Still Become an Industrial Designer?

A student emailed me with a simple question.

They’re not the first, won’t be the last I’m sure.

They wanted my advice on industrial design.​ They were thoughtful. Smart. Hopeful.

But,I didn’t know what to say.

Because I’ve had so many conversations in the past few months,

with talented, seasoned industrial designers​ who are struggling to find work.​ Who are freelancing just to stay afloat.​ Who feel invisible inside their own companies.​ Who are wondering if maybe,​ they chose the wrong career.

And at the same time​ design schools keep churning out more graduates every year.​ Bright-eyed. Full of promise.​ Heading into a field that, for many, doesn’t have enough chairs at the table.

So when this student asked me:​ “Which school should I go to?”

All I could think was:​ Should you even go at all?

But the thing is,​ I still love it.

I love what industrial design could be.​ What it should be.​ Or maybe that’s just what it wants to be.

I love the feeling of solving a real problem in a beautiful way.​ Of holding an idea in my hands.​ Of bringing form to intention.

But I also hate being dishonest.

So I’m asking:

If you’re an ID professional, what do you tell them?​ Is the dream still alive?​ Or are we handing them a career path that’s crumbling under its own weight?

They’re just starting the story. Excited. Hungry.

We’ve lived the plot twist. And most are still waiting for the resolution.

So, when they ask if it’s worth it,

what do you say?

Industrial Designers International - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13176226/