Connor Madsen

Responsibilities

I was responsible of creating technical flat sketches using Adobe Illustrator, creating artwork files in Illustrator for graphic placements and callouts for tech packs, developing line guides for collection production and submitting artwork files through Brand Comply to companies that collaborate with PacSun on apparel collections. Moreover, I also help taking photos of approved production samples and submitting then for final production - Attending buying, seller, and production meetings, meeting with technical design and product development to go over specifics on certain products (fabric, findings, dyes, etc.) and creating and presenting mood boards displaying colors, styles, fabrics, and other trends to the team for collection research and development.

Accomplishments

Designing a pair of sunglasses in collaboration with Budweiser that will be produced and sold this winter.

Learning experience

The biggest takeaway from my first industry job is to be as open to new information, skills, and experiences as possible. I've learned to take in everything that's being said at meetings or when working on projects, and then to ask my coworkers what something is if I'm unsure. My first week of work consisted of absorbing various industry phrases and acronyms I had no idea about. For example, during a meeting with product development, my coworker in brand design was trying to debate fabric selection on a hoodie and kept talking about "GSM". I then asked him and learned that it's an abbreviation for the weight of the fabric being used for the garment. Other than continually being curious, I'd also say that another lesson I've learned is to ask your coworkers, supervisor, or boss if they need anything done or if you can do something for them. My first few weeks were very fast paced with work and after we got our major projects done as a team, work started to slow down, and I had nothing to do. I adapted to asking my boss if I could do anything to help him or the team out, and I've always bene given a productive task to complete. I feel that the skill of selfless work and taking the weight off others' shoulders will prove helpful in my future in the industry.

What advice would you give?

I would say that if given the chance, I would encourage future students who take internships to share a meal with your coworkers because of the relationship-building opportunities that can happen out of them. I've found that my favorite moments during the work week tend to always happen at lunch with my team because we can talk about more than work. Eating with your coworkers is also a great way to get to know them personally versus just seeing them as someone you work with. I've gotten to know my boss and other coworkers fairly well by just going out to eat with them and know that the relationships I've made with them now will prove to be beneficial for my future.