Nicole Dugan

Major: Apparel, Merchandising, and Design
Minor/option/emphasis: AMD-Creative and Technical Design
Company/Organization: NASA Langley Research Center (Advanced Materials and Processing Branch)
Company/Organization website: https://www.nasa.gov/langley
Destination: Hampton, VA
Timeframe: Spring
Advisor/Coordinator Email: briaj@iastate.edu

Responsibilities

Some of my job responsibilities include design research and scientific research. I also make patterns and sew original designs. In addition to conventional fabrics I also have to work with protective materials and think about that in my designs. I work with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. I also use Optitex and a digitizing table in my work. We also have helped with various sewing tasks in the center in addition to our own project.

Accomplishments

I would say my greatest accomplishment so far is helping to establish more of a design studio and bring a designer’s perspective to this project. I’ve had to take the lead and speak up more as the only designer on my team, and it’s given me a new perspective on what I can contribute to as a designer.

What advice would you give?

Definitely take risks and be brave in your design and career choices. Also try to think outside of “fashion” for inspiration in your designs, because your designs will be more unique because of it. Be curious-open your mind to everything around you.

Career Connections