July 29, 2024
Classrooms to Careers: KCAD Graphic Design student Isabelle Buckler applies classroom knowledge to shape Gentex Corp. products
Isabelle Buckler is spending part of her summer internship behind the wheel, using her experience as a designer to test products for Gentex Corporation.
Buckler is a student at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University working as an intern at the Zeeland-based company, a global leader in producing custom-made, high-tech electronic products for the automotive, aerospace and commercial fire protection industries.
Buckler, a senior, is channeling her classroom experience into her role as a user experience intern. Working with KCAD faculty in Product Design helped Buckler sharpen her work.
Buckler and her design teammates focus on user-testing products to develop iconography and create additional graphics.
Combining the user-centered design principles she learned in collaborative design with the skills she gained during her internship, she hopes to develop accessible infotainment systems for drivers.
Buckler encourages fellow students to engage professors with industry contacts that can open doors. She said much of the design industry revolves around networking, so students should take advantage of the connections they make in class.
“My advice for others seeking internships would be to talk to your professors and advocate for yourself,” Buckler said.
Buckler is KCAD’s Student Council president. Her work with the Council started during her sophomore year. Buckler is also a student senator on KCAD’s All College Senate.
Buckler is learning the value of collaboration during her internship as she begins to look ahead to the job market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that graphic designer salaries can range from $40,000 to $115,000, with an average of about $61,000.
“I firmly believe that the design process is elevated when you can rely on others’ expertise,” Buckler said. “As designers, we have immense power regarding representation. So, we should think collaboratively as we make our decisions.”
Relationships helped shape her internship opportunity. Buckler received an invitation to participate in a portfolio review, which put her in contact with hiring companies.
“Without that connection, I would not have had the opportunity to apply,” Buckler said.