June Hong

Maintain a working material archive that gives students access to current material samples, resources to source new samples, archives of alumni work for reference. Conducting research within the archive to organize and label appropriate categories and subcategories. Working with the Department Chair to co-design an organizational system for displaying and returning materials.

Collaborated directly with New Balance design and marketing teams on a next-generation running footwear CMF proposal.

Collaborated directly with Ford CMF teams on a 2045 F-150 CMF proposal. Translated interior & exterior CMF strategies into digital & physical CMF trays.

Fabric Sourcing: Sourced and evaluated 1,000+ new fabrics annually from 30+ global suppliers, ensuring alignment with client requirements, manufacturing standards, and market trends. Market Trend Research: Conducted comprehensive market analyses, delivering quarterly reports and attending 10+ seminars and textile fairs annually to identify emerging industry innovations. Material Development: Led the development of sustainable and high-performance fabrics tailored to the needs of major retail buyers, including GAP, Old Navy, Kohl’s, Walmart, and American Eagle. Supplier Management: Cultivated and maintained relationships with international suppliers, driving collaboration to secure innovative and cost-effective material solutions. Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Worked closely with design, purchasing, and sales teams to ensure fabric development aligned with product vision, quality standards, and production timelines. Quality Assurance: Conducted rigorous fabric testing and analysis in collaboration with agencies like Intertek and Bureau Veritas, ensuring compliance with performance, quality, and regulatory standards.

Assisted with fabric sourcing, sample archiving, and coordination with external suppliers to support the fabric R&D team.

Tracked consumer trends, contributed to trend reports, and supported editorial design for a home textile brand.

Created graphic pattern designs for potential product development.

Worked as an interpreter for the Korea Textile Trade Association (KTTA).