Finding your professional voice

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Gene McHugh.

“And I think that, what would impress firm leadership is how effective you are with your time” Gene McHugh

This episode is on the evolving landscape of design careers, from the first job interview to establishing yourself as a design leader. The episode offers insights into mentorship and how designers can grow professionally in today’s changing workplace culture. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship in the early stages of a designer’s career, emphasizing the value of communication and building strong professional relationships, urging designers to focus on essential “soft skills” like client management and adaptability. They also touch on fostering a culture where team members are empowered to take initiative, which can drive both personal and organizational growth.

An alumnus of Ohio State Design, Gene McHugh is a prominent design leader and principal at Design Collective, a design firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and branding. Throughout his career, Gene has built a reputation for his expertise in a variety of sectors, including hospitality, workplace environments, and healthcare design. His work is marked by a focus on collaboration, client relationships, and creating designs that serve both functional and aesthetic needs. Gene’s leadership approach emphasizes the importance of mentoring younger designers and fostering an environment where creativity can flourish.

Available on Apple Podcasts