In our “Power of Us” series, we are highlighting associates from around the world who are going above and beyond in their job to bring the Power of PVH to life.
PVH gives our associates the opportunity to work, learn and grow around the world through our internal mobility program. Our partnership with The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) allows us to collaborate with talented individuals, help develop their skill sets, and watch them flourish within the PVH community. The following is an interview with Stephanie Hutton, Assistant Technical Designer for 3D at PVH, about her impactful journey from intern to full-time associate.
How did your journey begin?
I graduated from FIT, class of 2019, with a Bachelor of Science in Technical Design. I started at PVH in the summer of 2018 as part of the intern program as a 3D technical design intern and stayed on as an intern throughout my final year at FIT. I am currently the Assistant Technical Designer-3D supporting Heritage Brands. My current responsibilities are working with design, technical design and vendors to create 3D samples. The 3D samples have been and will be used for design development, 3D fittings, marketing and sales tools.
How did you first hear about PVH?
I first heard about PVH when attending FIT. My first experience with PVH was participating in the FIT x Infor Design and Tech Lab’s project with IBM and Tommy Hilfiger exploring artificial intelligence. I learned about the internship through the career center at FIT. I recognized this as an important opportunity for my career, as well as a chance to work with a company leading the way for digital transformation in the apparel industry.
What did you find most valuable about your internship experience?
The ability to be a part of the Tech Design team from my first day and gain hands on experience. I was able to have responsibilities directly related to the team goals, and learn from cross functional team members through informational interviews about their roles and careers. Also, part of the intern program was a group project with other interns in various areas of the company. For our group project, we envisioned a streetwear line, including designing the entire line using 3D from the initial concept. This was a great experience because of the guidance that we received from everyone at the company. Regardless of their level within PVH, everyone took the time to listen and contribute to our group’s success – wining the intern project competition. Through this project I learned a great deal about all of the components of product lifecycle.
What were the driving factors to pursuing a full-time position at PVH Corp.?
The ability to have a role focused exclusively on 3D was a huge driver for me accepting a full-time position with PVH. At the time of my graduation, PVH was one of the only companies that had 3D focused positions in the apparel industry. Another big factor is the team environment within the Heritage Brands teams. Everyone is so welcoming and was open to my contributions immediately.
How did your internal mobility journey from intern to associate enhance your experience at PVH?
While I was an intern I had so much exposure to all areas of the business, I felt like it was an easy transition to become an associate because there was the foundation from my internship. The transition to full time associate was definitely smoother due to the foundation I had and the relationships I had started building with my cross functional teams.