Many industry companies involved with PAVE work together with students in their locations to provide additional insights into the industry. These partnerships expand students’ awareness of opportunities available in the industry. Partnerships include plant and showroom tours, visits to schools to discuss the industry with students, donations of goods and services to schools, and internship opportunities.
Architectural Systems Inc.’s showroom in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan is near the campus of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)—home to many of the retail environments industry’s next stars.
ASI hosted a class trip of third-year students from FIT’s Color and Materials class. Architectural Systems Inc. President Nancy Jackson gave an informative presentation and introduced them to the showroom. “It’s a great opportunity for the students to see the materials in application, as well as to see the range and breadth of the finishes that they will have the opportunity to work with in the future,” she says.
Architectural Systems Inc. recently hosted the Parsons Interior Design Basic Core class, including a field trip to its showroom. “It is always a treat for us to be able to share with aspiring designers a working showroom,” said Nancy Jackson, president of Architectural Systems Inc.
More PAVE Partnerships
In 2010, PAVE launched, for example, PAVETHEWAY, a 3D Design Challenge where students enrolled in interior design, store design, or any other industry-focused design program could win cash awards and partake in partnership programs.
The competition offers students the opportunity to show their designs at one of the world’s largest industry trade shows, GLOBALSHOP, in Las Vegas, and 12 finalists were invited to on display their work there.