Developing Tomorrow’s Talent Through Real-World Projects

Together, the Design Project Center and the Business Innovation and Lean Center, located in Ferris State University’s College of Business, have connected and collaborated with industry on a total of 275 design and process improvement projects. Experiential learning opportunities allow both design students and business majors in operational excellence programs to apply their skills in real-world contexts. Design students support non-profits and businesses by developing brand systems, communication tools, and user-centered experiences that clarify goals and connect with audiences. Meanwhile, business students focus on streamlining operations through process improvement, data analysis, and strategic planning. While these groups currently work on separate projects, their parallel contributions demonstrate how creative and operational problem-solving can align—and lay the groundwork for future interdisciplinary collaboration. Both tracks offer students valuable experience, professional references, and pathways to internships or post-graduate employment. This session will highlight how engaging students with in-person/remote/hybrid experiential projects enhances learning and furthers the next generation of talent development, how to recognize the importance and value of organizations partnering with universities/colleges for experiential learning projects, and how to effectively contribute as an industry partner.