TTP: What do you think students learn in this class that is important?

CP: I believe that designers have an ethical responsibility to have some base knowledge of what it takes to build the things they design. To truly understand the physicality of moving steel, I think you have to really pick it up. If a designer makes a mistake in the office, it is typically a worker on site that pays the price. I want this class to motivate students throughout their careers to understand the materials they specify and make sure their measurements are correct.

TTP: Can you explain the how and why behind your group’s decision on the piece’s installation and location?

AM: The Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center had reached out to Chad Plunket, CASP director, asking if it would be possible to create a wall mural for their front entrance. They had previously worked with him and the product design class and had successfully installed a mural in the central courtyard of the same center a few semesters prior. 

TTP: How was the final design chosen for the Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center?

AM: When it came to the front entryway mural's design, each student in the class was tasked to create a design and pitch to a first round of judges. From this, two final designs were chosen to go forward for the final client pitch. Ultimately, my design was chosen, “Ribbon to Rose.” 

TTP: How do you think this will help you in the future? 

AM: I think this experience changed my entire perspective of what it means to be a leader and team player. We are all one. As they say, “It takes a village” and it does. When we come together, we create something stronger (and more efficient), which proved to me that communal effort is greater than an individual one. There is a lot of power in “we.” It is important to stay humble and respect each other and focus on the overall mission of what is being created for the best outcome. 

TTP: What are some things that you have noticed or enjoy about teaching this class?

CP: Many of the students have sat in front of a computer all day. I think for the most part the students enjoy the labor and moving their bodies. They sometimes complain of tired shoulders and muscles they don’t always use, but I enjoy seeing the confidence they gain throughout the semester. Watching a student grab an angle grinder with confidence and cut off an extra chuck of steel when a month ago they didn’t know what an angle grinder was. It puts a smile on my face.