Student wrote:
As an engineering student, innovation in running shoe technologies has always been an interest of mine. How does one go about getting into the field of footwear development/engineering for a running (or other branch of athletics) company? Did you guys start with Puma and running, or did you explore other areas first?
Hi Student,
We got some input from a couple of our developers at Puma Running Footwear division. Hope that helps.
Gary Siriano - Sr. Developer, "I know quite a few people that end up in development/engineering who got their start in retail. (tech running store - e.g. manager of the Nike Georgetown store in Washington DC.) Working the sales floor allows an individual to learn the basics on fitting an individual, understand gait basic analysis, types of footwear for specific needs,etc...... Also, taking part in tech sessions from various footwear companies allows that person to better understand that companies mantra on fit, function and short/long term mission statement."
Another Developer - "I graduated UNH in 2002 with a business degree. Wasn't sure what I wanted to do and the job market was not that good so I went to a temp agency (Adecco). They gave me a temp position at Timberland where I was working directly with the developers on the Kid's and Outdoor Performance teams. I worked as a temp there for 15 months and built relationships with the creative/development staff working at Timberland. In Nov 2003 they hired me as an entry level developer on the Outdoor Performance team, working on outdoor product like Hiking boots, Multi Sport shoes, Trail Sandals, etc. I worked there just shy of 5 years and then came to Puma as the Developer of Golf and Training in 2008. A year later transferred to the Running team, and have been developing running shoes ever since."