What is the qualification for being an IKEA designer?

How to become an industrial designer?

• so up until last weekend i had always wanted to become a computer programmer and i tried countless times to learnt o program and it obviously was not my thing. in a somewhat fed up state i went on BBC news and read about sir jonathan Ive; this got me thinking "you know i would really love to design products for companies like apple, IDEO and 3DI to name a few". I'm only 14 but i have now set my heart on becoming an industrial designer. qualification wise i am currently studying GCSE'S in french, graphic design, geography, history and computer science. (unfortunately i picked these when i was trying to learn to programme). but in 2 years when i start my A-levels i intend to pick product design, economics, graphic design and either computer science or sociology, If i get my a-levels then i would love to go to brunel university and study industrial design up to a masters. the only problem i face is when i was young my talent was drawing (great right?) but i forced myself to give it up seeing it as a "waste of time". i now regret that because now when i try and draw, its not too good. I'm not sure how to go about improving my drawing any help? and is this how you do become a good industrial designer?

• Answer:

  Here is how to become an industrial designer as followed: 1) Look at your positives. Do you possess a creative streak or do invention fairs sound fun to you? If your mind always come up with new ideas or ways to make things better, then you're right fit for industrial design jobs. Problem-solving skills are a plus. 2) Take design and art classes in high school to work on your eye for detail. If computer-aided drafting (CAD) classes are available, enroll at once. CAD programs are the number one tool used by industrial designers. Other important courses are geometry in order to understand proportion and shop classes. Build sets and props for your school or community theater group. 3) Apply to a college that offers an industrial design degree. You can substitute majors in architecture or engineering for an industrial design degree. You'll need a minimum of a BA for entry-level positions. Art and design schools are another way to go. A master's degree may put you ahead of the competition. Coursework should focus on both the artistic and technical aspects of things. 4) Gain expertise in computer aided design software if you haven't already. It really is indispensable in today's industrial designer jobs. 5) Check into possible internships while in school. These might be for a manufacturer or a design firm. 6) Learn more about industrial design once you start work. Many employers provide on-the-job training for entry-level positions. After gaining experience, you can move up. If the idea of being your own boss sounds good, you might want to pursue self-employment. One out of every three industrial designers is self-employed. 7) Specialize in a specific product category. Most industrial designers focus their energy on certain fields, like kitchen appliances, toys or medical equipment.