Victor is joining the Studio Other team as an Industrial Designer. Part time fabrication consultant, part time furniture builder and part time business owner, he does it all. Find him rebuilding an antique printing press or fly fishing in his spare time. Victor's unique and varied background will bring a fresh perspective to the team— and we look forward to the day we see his equally fresh karaoke performance. Welcome, Victor, we're happy to have you!
1. Name, title?
Victor Wilkens, Industrial Designer
2. Where is your hometown?
Kenmore, Washington (just North of Seattle)
3. What type of company did you work for previously and what was your role there?
I worked for California College of the Arts part time as a “fabrication consultant.” The college has many specialized needs; it was my job to assist them in designing and leading the fabrication of various items for their classrooms and workshops. I also did specialized heavy machinery repair as it was needed. For example I recently rebuilt an antique printing press for the printmaking department which required machining and fabricating many parts from scratch.The benefit of working for the college part time was that it allowed me unlimited access to their tools, which I used to build custom furniture for my business, Ten Point Furniture. Having a 10,000 square foot workshop with no overhead is a beautiful thing.
4. What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am the same height as Michael Jordan, but with none of his talent.
5. If you were trapped on an island which three things would you want to have with you and why?
- Fishing pole - providing entertainment and sustenance - I love fly fishing
- Coffee - because if you’re going to be marooned you better be caffeinated.
- Jet ski - because jet skis are awesome, ‘nuff said.
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Several years ago I was traveling in Southeast Asia and wanted to try some weird stuff so I sought it out. At one point I realized there was no end to that rabbit hole and had to back off, but not before I tried Balut. Google it and try not to be grossed out. I had it Cambodian style with a heap of fresh ground Kampot pepper and a lime. I actually enjoyed it because I didn’t know what it was initially.
7. What are you looking forward to in your new role at Studio?
Working with and learning from passionate people who are good at what they do.
8. What is your go-to Karaoke Song and why?
“Just a Friend” by Biz Markie - because he was an awful singer so it’s not like I’m going to butcher it any worse.
9. You’re throwing a party, what would be the theme and who would be the guest of honor?
The theme would be Moto GP which is already basically a big party, and the guest of honor would be Valentino Rossi. That dude knows how to do two things; win championships and party.
10. What do you hope to bring to the Studio team?
A different perspective, my strength lies in my unique and varied background.
