Office Revolution is proud to add education to our list of outreach initiatives. Our local markets partner with universities in their respective cities to educate students on design and industry-related topics. For the past four years, Office Revolution has been proud to partner with Southern Illinois University, offering design students a unique opportunity to explore the contract furniture dealer industry as part of our DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) initiative. This ongoing effort aims to bridge the gap for aspiring designers who may have limited exposure to the contract furniture dealer industry—a vibrant and viable career path that offers endless possibilities for creativity and growth.
Sharing Insights and Industry Knowledge
Office Revolution’s design team leads the presentations, and this year, Alyssa and Addy hosted a virtual session covering a range of essential topics, including design roles within a dealership, the design process at Office Revolution, key project highlights, and the importance of networking. Complementing their presentation, we shared insights into Office Revolution’s history, culture, and the wide range of career opportunities available within the organization. We also provided practical advice for students on how to secure job opportunities, including tips on reaching out to industry connections, engaging with professional organizations like IIDA and ASID, and utilizing employee referral programs.
Creating Awareness
The primary goal of our presentation was simple yet impactful: To educate young designers about the contract furniture dealer industry. This is a field they often do not encounter during their formal education, but one that holds exciting potential for creative professionals. By exposing students to this industry early on, we aim to spark curiosity and inspire them to explore a dynamic career path that offers meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Supporting DEIB with Diverse Perspectives
Through our ongoing partnership with Southern Illinois University, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming students as interns over the years, further fostering a deeper connection to the industry. Our aim is for students to develop a deeper understanding of the diverse and unique career opportunities available to them after graduation.
This initiative also plays a significant role in supporting our DEIB efforts, fostering diversity in both age and thought within our company. While Office Revolution has traditionally employed experienced, seasoned designers, we recognize the value of building a talented bench of young professionals who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with SIU, helping to inspire the next wave of designers to explore the exciting possibilities within the contract furniture industry. The future of design is bright, and we’re eager to be part of shaping it.
