Meet Will (Chin Wei) Huang | Footwear Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Will (Chin Wei) Huang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Will (Chin Wei), is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
In the realm of footwear design, one often overlooked aspect by outsiders is the intricate balance between artistic innovation and practical functionality. While consumers primarily see the final product showcased in stores or online, they might not realize the exhaustive creative process and technical considerations that precede it. Designers must fuse their imaginative visions with ergonomic expertise, ensuring that each shoe not only looks appealing but also provides comfort, support, and durability. From experimenting with materials to refining construction techniques, the behind-the-scenes work is a delicate dance between aesthetics and engineering that shapes the shoes we wear.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s not an easy start when I told my parents that I want to do art and Design. Growing up in an Asian family, artists and designers are jobs that were considered unlikely to lead to success, let alone financial stability. Especially studying abroad, which I did not come from a wealthy family, added another layer of challenge. So, I worked extra hard to prove that being a designer is great and important. Through countless late nights and relentless determination, I forged my path, fueled by a burning passion to defy stereotypes and pursue my creative dreams.

As a footwear designer with 2-3 years of experience in the industry, I am driven by a passion for creating high-quality and functional footwear that inspires individuals to achieve their athletic goals. In my leisure time, I love going out and engaging in sports, as well as playing the violin. With a deep investment in street culture and an innovative mindset, I have successfully delivered a wide range of products to the market that meet both the functional and aesthetic needs of consumers. Through my experience in the design process, from ideation to manufacturing, I have developed strong team collaboration and leadership abilities that have helped me build a culture of creativity, accountability, and respect. My consumer-first mentality has been honed through personal engagement in sports and outdoor activities, as well as a passion for music, which has given me a unique perspective and appreciation for both the functional and aesthetic aspects of footwear design.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A heartfelt shoutout goes to SCAD, the Savannah College of Art & Design, for providing an exceptional platform for nurturing talent in Accessory Design, the major from which I proudly graduated.

Loredana Cannia, Tom Rudnick, Bryan Beaver, and Kirsten Warkow, deserve immense gratitude for their unwavering mentorship and guidance during my senior year in school. Their wisdom and encouragement sculpted not just my skills but also my confidence, setting the stage for my professional journey.

Additionally, a special mention to Martin Chapuy, my current mentor, whose leadership and support continually inspire growth and excellence in my career trajectory.

Their collective impact underscores the power of supportive communities and dedicated mentors in shaping individual success stories.

Website: https://willchinweihuang.myportfolio.com/lifestyle-sneaker

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/willcwhuang