What Type of Designer Job Will You Get?
A designer is someone who designs something in advance, usually by drawing or creating plans, before it’s ever made. In common usage, the term “designer” is used to describe any person who makes tangible or intangible things, processes, systems, practices, products, services, or works. The designer may be a single person, a group, an organization, a government, or a combination of all these entities. Many famous designers and influential people throughout history have been described as having “designed” things.
Product designers are typically employed by large businesses or corporations to create new and innovative products for their clientele. They are often involved in the conceptualization stage of product design, although many product design firms also perform the concept and graphical design stages. Most product designers are formally trained art or science majors, with degrees in either the arts or sciences. Many product designers start out as graphic designers in computer software companies or marketing departments, eventually going into product design after completing a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in one of the specialized fields of art or science. Some product designers begin as concept designers or visual designers in advertising agencies.
Fashion designers, meanwhile, are employed by both large fashion houses and smaller brands, crafting clothing that wearers love. Unlike product design, fashion design does not require formal training, though it often requires a strong understanding of colors, fabric types and designs. Fashion designers can take classes at a design school, but many also learn on their own through correspondence courses with other designers. Many designers work from home or freelance as well, creating both full-scale designs and short fashion projects.
Architectural designers are professional designers who build homes, offices, parks and other structures. They are responsible for everything from floor planning to landscaping. In general architectural designer jobs require a Bachelor’s degree, although some do go on to earn master’s degrees. There are also certification programs available from the American Society of Architectural Designers (ASAD), which provides a path to entry for those looking to break into the design industry. College graduates may find work as project coordinators or architects who work in construction firms.
Industrial designers are concerned with the designs of machines and equipment, such as cars, airplanes, and machinery. These designs help companies produce quality products that are safe, efficient, and appealing. Industrial designers should have a broad range of skills, often including math, design, graphic design, and business skills. Some industrial designers start out as consultants, helping businesses create better manufacturing processes or designs. Others eventually go on to be designers in their own right.
Fashion designers create clothing that we wear and are loved by all. Fashion designers can work in various industries, but many choose to go to fashion design schools and earn a degree. The majority of students in fashion design schools learn how to create beautiful and elegant clothes by using colors, patterns, fabric, and styling. As a student you will learn how to select fabrics, colors, and textures that would look best on the body of each model. You’ll also learn about colors, textures, and patterns that are suited for your particular skin and figure.