At the Wilson School of Design, we are lucky to have an amazing team of Student Assistants who help bring our community to life. The Lab Tech Student Assistants are essential parts of our day-to-day activities, supporting the campus, as well as helping our labs operate smoothly. Meet the Student Assistants who help keep the Wilson School of Design creative, connected, and running strong!
Heidi Wilson, Lab Tech Student Assistant
Fashion and Technology 4th Year
What kind of work do you do as a student assistant at WSD, and what is your favourite part about it?
My work as a student assistant changes every day – I pretty much spend every shift running around doing various tasks from general tidying and organizing to other larger projects! Although having this kind of variety in tasks is great, I would say the absolute best part of my job is actually helping other students and staff; I love supporting my community through my role and appreciate the opportunities it has given me to connect more with others. As for my work as a research assistant, I have been working with Jessica to explore virtual fittings vs. real-life fittings and how soft tissue distribution varies between a real model and their digital twin – this work is great as it has allowed me to get involved with very exciting and valuable research in the fashion industry.
Tell us about a recent project/what you are working on right now!
Right now, I’m developing my fourth-year capstone collection: Women’s transformative rock climbing wear. Grounded in research and an innovative design approach, this project addresses key market gaps that make it difficult for female climbers to find apparel that fits well, performs reliably, and withstands real use. Over the past semester, I’ve completed extensive research, design development, and collection refinement. With the line now finalized, it will move into production this coming Spring
Who or what first sparked your interest in design?
I would say I’ve pretty much always been interested in art and design growing up; however, I had never considered a career in design until ninth grade. During that year, my high school sewing class went on a field trip to see the Wilson School of Design’s year end fashion show, and ever since witnessing that, I was hooked!
What is a design tool or app you can’t live without?
My favourite digital design tool is CLO3D! It is such an amazing tool if you know how to use it right – I find with CLO3D I can design, pattern draft, and produce garments faster and more confidently!
What are your hobbies outside of class time?
I love being active – I grew up as a competitive dancer, so I continue to fuel that passion with classes today, as well, I love hiking, rock climbing, running, and practicing yoga. As a creative person, I also enjoy drawing, painting, baking, crocheting, and, of course, sewing.
Morgan Gannon, Lab Tech Student Assistant
Fashion and Technology 3rd Year
What kind of work do you do as a student assistant at WSD, and what is your favourite part about it?
I help with maintaining cleanliness in the labs to ensure everything is always
running properly and am available to assist any professors with anything they
may need. My favourite part about my job is the organization.
Tell us about a recent project/what you are working on right now!
I am currently working on perfecting the perfect pattern and pair of jeans!
Who or what first sparked your interest in design?
My high school textiles teacher inspired me to pursue design, and she was and still is my biggest supporter.
What is a design tool or app you can’t live without?
After getting over the learning curve, Adobe Illustrator has become my best
friend and I use it for everything.
What are your hobbies outside of class time?
Outside of school my favourite thing to do is read.
Paulette Chee, Lab Tech & Research Student Assistant
Technical Apparel 2nd Year
What kind of work do you do as a student assistant at WSD, and what is your favourite part about it?
As the workshop student assistant, I am responsible for daily tasks that keep the shop running and special projects like designing shelving units, testing new equipment, and manufacturing items for the school. My favourite part of the job is seeing what students are working on and talking to them about their design process.
Tell us about a recent project/what you are working on right now!
Currently, I am working on my capstone project, which is designing a field carrying system for forestry field researchers.
Who or what first sparked your interest in design?
I grew up sewing and doing outdoor activities, so I was drawn to technical apparel for its combination of design and function.
What is a design tool or app you can’t live without?
I love Optitex and Clo! I find they make the patterning process more efficient, and I enjoy working in CAD software.
What are your hobbies outside of class time?
Outside of class, you can find me outdoors climbing, hiking, camping or skiing. I also enjoy baking and crafting.
Megha Samir Patel, Lab Tech Student Assistant
Fashion and Technology 3rd Year
What kind of work do you do as a student assistant at WSD, and what is your favourite part about it?
As a student assistant at the Wilson School of Design, I mainly support and maintain the sewing labs. My responsibilities include keeping the labs organized, ensuring machines are properly set up and functioning, assisting students with basic machine use, and helping maintain a smooth and safe studio environment. I also help with plotter printing, digitizer upkeep, and occasional software support. My favourite part of the role is working in a hands-on setting and helping students feel confident using the equipment.
Tell us about a recent project/what you are working on right now!
Recently, I’ve been working on projects that focus on technical and innovative pattern development. This includes experimenting with pattern manipulation, unconventional seam placements, and structure-driven design to improve fit and functionality. These projects allow me to push traditional pattern-making methods while combining creativity with strong technical skills.
Who or what first sparked your interest in design?
Being part of my family’s textile business introduced me to fabrics and garment production, and my background in computer engineering sparked my interest in technology and problem-solving. Bringing these two together inspired me to explore fashion design in a way that combines technical innovation, digital tools, and practical knowledge of textiles.
What is a design tool or app you can’t live without?
Adobe Illustrator and indesign is essential for my technical flats and design development. I also regularly use CLO 3D for visualizing garments, Optitex software for pattern-related work, and hands-on tools such as industrial sewing machines, dress forms, and digitizers to bring designs from concept to reality
What are your hobbies outside of class time?
Outside of class, I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes, listening to music, and spending time on creative activities like sketching and exploring new ideas. These hobbies help me relax while still staying connected to creativity in different ways.
