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Caroline Hummels
Professor Design and Theory for Transformative Qualities at the department of Industrial Design - TU/e
Professional Background
Caroline Hummels is a distinguished academic and designer with a remarkable career focused on the intersection of design, engineering, and human wellbeing. She currently serves as a Professor of Design and Theory for Transformative Qualities at Eindhoven University of Technology, where her expertise is helping shape the future generation of designers. Caroline’s career is marked by her diverse roles within academia, leadership in educational settings, and her innovative contributions to the design industry.
Caroline's journey in the world of design started with her studying 3D design at the Arnhem School of Arts, where she completed her second year successfully. She then advanced her studies at the esteemed Technische Universiteit Delft, earning both a Bachelor of Science degree (ir.) and a Doctorate (dr.) in Industrial Design Engineering, graduating cum laude in both qualifications. This solid educational foundation equipped her with a deep understanding of design principles and practices.
Throughout her career, Caroline has held numerous positions at top institutions, including serving as an associate professor at Delft University of Technology and then furthering her influence at Eindhoven University of Technology, where she has established herself as a thought leader in her field. As the director of education for the Industrial Design department, she played a pivotal role in advancing the curriculum and fostering an innovative academic environment.
In addition to her academic roles, Caroline has been actively involved in research that explores the areas of participatory health and wellness, particularly as a theme leader at TU/e. This work is centered on designing solutions that enhance health outcomes through collaborative processes that involve end-users in the design journey. Her commitment to improving lives through design is further exemplified in her passion for transformative qualities within design, enabling it to adapt to and embrace the needs of society.
As a former owner and designer of ID-dock, Caroline has applied her knowledge and expertise in practical settings, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. This entrepreneurial venture allowed her to engage directly with clients and industries, gaining valuable insights into user-centered design and its impact on health and wellbeing. Furthermore, her role as a visiting researcher at Media Lab Europe exemplifies her dedication to staying at the forefront of design and technology.
Education and Achievements
Caroline Hummels has built a robust academic background that showcases her dedication to the design field. After successfully completing her 2nd year in 3D design at Arnhem School of Arts, she transitioned to Technische Universiteit Delft, where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Doctorate degrees in Industrial Design Engineering with cum laude honors.
Her educational achievements not only signify her commitment to academic excellence but also affirm her expertise in the complexities of design engineering. With a profound focus on user experience, her research intersects with vital societal challenges, particularly in health and wellbeing. Caroline’s academic accolades are a testament to her comprehensive understanding of how design impacts everyday life.
Caroline has contributed significantly to academia and practice through her roles in various organizations and educational programs. By initiating forward-thinking projects and integrating participatory design methodologies, she has produced impactful research outcomes that resonate in both academic literature and practical applications. Her contributions have significantly advanced the field of Industrial Design Engineering, and her commitment to transformative design has inspired many of her students and colleagues alike.
Achievements
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Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology: Currently, Caroline holds a prestigious position at Eindhoven University of Technology, where her leadership in design theory and practice influences both faculty and students.
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Leadership Roles: As a former director of education in Industrial Design, Caroline has helped transform the curriculum to emphasize the importance of participatory design and wellbeing, a crucial component in the training of future designers.
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Research in Participatory Health and Wellbeing: Caroline has pioneered various initiatives focused on participatory design methods to enhance health outcomes, playing a key role in research that explores innovative spaces where design and health intersect.
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Industry Impact: Through her work at ID-dock, Caroline has not only influenced educational frameworks but has also created tangible products and solutions in the design market, showcasing the real-world applicability of her academic work.
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Visiting Researcher at Media Lab Europe: This role has allowed her to explore emergent technologies and their implications for design, guiding her research directions toward future trends in the industry.
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Mentorship and Student Engagement: Caroline is deeply committed to mentoring students and fostering an environment that encourages inquiry and creativity, making a significant impact in shaping the next generation of designers. Her teaching methods emphasize real-world application and the importance of user feedback in the design process.
In summary, Caroline Hummels stands out as a leading figure in the world of design and engineering. Her educational background, combined with her extensive experience in academia and the industry, highlight her commitment to improving lives through innovative design. She continues to inspire students, researchers, and practitioners alike with her passion for transformative design concepts, making her a valuable asset to the Eindhoven University of Technology and beyond.
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