The link-up came through the University鈥檚 STEP scheme, which offers paid degree-related work experience for students while firms receive specialist support at a reduced rate. Previously, Creative Glass & Mirrors made everything to order, resulting in them being very busy or waiting for work.
Darren came up with a project to develop a constant flow of work, designing a collection of glass furniture for sale in the showroom.
Darren was awarded the runner鈥檚-up prize at the local STEP 鈥楳ost Enterprising Student鈥� competition. He said: 鈥淪TEP gave me the opportunity to apply my design skills, acquired at the University, to a real-life project in industry. Not only was it great experience for my CV but also a massive achievement to see my designs manufactured and on sale.
鈥淥n the course I enjoyed developing brand identities, targeting products and marketing campaigns. Seeing the end result when a 15 week project is finally pulled together is very satisfying.鈥�