Navigating the World of Industrial Design: Anson Chung's Journey
Welcome to the latest episode of Talking Design and Engineering, brought to you by Makelab. This podcast dives deep into insights and advice from industry leaders who are driving innovation and shaping the future of physical products. In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Anson Chung, an industrial designer based in the Bay Area. Join us as we explore Anson's journey, from his humble beginnings in Hong Kong to becoming a partner at a successful design firm, and finally, to his current independent ventures.
Meeting Anson Cheung
Our host, Christina Perla, kicked off the episode by welcoming Anson Cheung, expressing her excitement about finally meeting him and getting the chance to sit down and chat.
"It’s awesome that we're doing this," Christina said, highlighting the serendipitous nature of their meeting in San Francisco. Anson recalled recognizing Christina’s name from previous email exchanges and newsletters, emphasizing how small and connected the design community can be.
The Early Years
Anson shared his backstory, giving us a glimpse into his childhood and early influences. Growing up in Hong Kong, he was heavily influenced by Japanese culture, particularly through building Gundam model kits, which sparked his early interest in creation and design. Encouraged by supportive parents, Anson spent his childhood drawing and building things, which laid the foundation for his future career.
Education and Inspiration
Anson attended an international school in Hong Kong that followed the UK curriculum. Here, he was introduced to a subject called Design and Technology, which played a crucial role in shaping his career. By 7th grade, Anson was already aware that industrial design was a viable career path. He fondly recalls that many designers don't discover this field until much later in life.
He eventually applied to art schools in the U.S. and was accepted into his top choice, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Despite an initial culture shock, moving from bustling Hong Kong to the serene, smaller Providence, Rhode Island, Anson thrived at RISD. He appreciated the rigorous foundation program, which pushed him to think creatively and explore new ways of problem-solving.
Professional Journey: From Intern to Partner
Upon graduation, Anson interned at NASA and experienced the slow yet meticulous process of government-based design work. However, his desire for a more dynamic and fast-paced environment led him to San Francisco. Here, he landed an internship at Bold Design, a small firm that would become his professional home for the next decade.
Starting as an intern, Anson quickly climbed the ranks. Through hard work, dedication, and some serendipitous timing, he became a partner at Bold Design in 2016. During his tenure, Bold Design grew from a small team to a bustling studio of nearly 20 people, working with some of the biggest names in technology and consumer electronics.
Striking Out on His Own
In 2022, Anson decided to step out on his own, taking on projects as an independent designer. With a focus on high-tech, medical, and robotics sectors, he relishes the opportunity to work on intricate and innovative designs.
One notable shift in his design process has been the increased reliance on 3D printing. He described a recent project where he created a life-sized prototype using 3D printing, a feat that illustrates how technology can streamline and scale the design process, allowing designers to focus on more intricate aspects of their work.
JustIDJobs: Giving Back to the Community
Aside from his design work, Anson also founded JustIDJobs, a job board specifically for industrial designers. Frustrated by the lack of relevant job postings on general job boards, he created a platform that curates and categorizes industrial design job listings. The initiativehas been met with overwhelming support, helping thousands of designers find relevant job opportunities.
Looking Ahead
When asked about the future, Anson expressed his intent to continue his current trajectory, focusing on his design practice and helping the industrial design community. While he enjoys working independently, he also values the connections and impacts he can make within the design community.
Conclusion
Anson Chung's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck. From building Gundam model kits in Hong Kong to leading innovative design projects in the Bay Area, his story is an inspiration for aspiring designers. As he continues to shape the future of industrial design, we look forward to witnessing the incredible creations that lie ahead.
To catch the full episode and more insightful conversations, subscribe to Talking Design and Engineering on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Follow Makelab on social media for the latest in on-demand 3D printing services.
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