For a better experience, click the Compatibility Mode icon above to turn off Compatibility Mode, which is only for viewing older websites.

DESIGNING FOR MULTIBILLION DOLLAR CORPORATIONS

Rebecca Judith Billante

MS fashion design ’08

Rebecca Billante

Job Title, Employer: Senior Knitwear Designer, Nordstrom Product Group, Seattle, Washington

My Greatest Accomplishment:
One of my greatest accomplishments in my career to date was about a year and half into my employment. I was working at my first job as an Associate Designer for the international, multibillion dollar corporation, LF USA. I was selected out of a design division of 40 plus seasoned employees by the division’s Senior Vice President to launch a special project in Hong Kong. I was relocated by the company and lived and worked there for just shy of 6 months. I was the only US employee in the HK office. I traveled periodically into Southern China to assess sample room capabilities and met with a bevy of different supply vendors to establish and define new working relationships. I assisted in staffing and supporting our HK Product Development team. I also served as a daily liaison between the New York office and our Hong Kong and Shanghai counter parts.

I am also very proud of my successful career path and where I am today. I entered the job market during the economy crash of 2008, making for a very difficult start. My family, friends, and confidence in my superior education have continuously helped me to keep going. I have fought hard to get where I am today. All of my experiences thus far, both positive and negative, have shaped me into a resilient, hard working, accomplished professional.

How Drexel Helped:
My Drexel education was one of the best life decisions I have ever made; I never look back and regret my educational choices. I am so very proud to call Drexel my Alma Mater and with that pride has come confidence in myself and confidence in my career. Drexel’s Fashion Design program is phenomenal; I truly feel that I have one of the best educations/foundations out there. It is a very well balanced program with a solid mix of technical and fine arts that has given me the tools to really understand and excel in all aspects of my industry. The program is also staffed with a network of wonderful, experienced educators. When asked where I went to school, I am always very proud to say, Drexel!

Where will I be in 5 years:
In 5 years I aspire to continue to grow in my career. I’d love to be a Design Director leading a knitwear department of a successful fashion company.