A FREE industry-certified online learning experience empowering the next generation of product design talent
PLC Detroit is a leading institution dedicated to providing world-class education in design, offering a comprehensive curriculum, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning experiences to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the design industry. PLC Detroit aims to inspire creativity, foster innovation, and promote diversity in design.
In a significant step toward expanding access to design education, PLC Detroit has introduced its online learning platform, ePLC, in partnership with eHBCU.edu. The program, FUTURE SOLE PLC powered by NIKE 3.0, is a free, industry-certified online design experience specifically aimed at HBCU students nationwide. This initiative is designed to uncover, nurture, and empower the next generation of design talent, providing a platform for students to discover, develop, and enhance their creative potential through a comprehensive learning experience.
eHBCU.edu is a groundbreaking digital portal that brings the cultural pride, academic excellence, and community of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to students everywhere. Built by a consortium of prestigious HBCUs, eHBCU removes barriers to education—offering flexible, high-quality learning rooted in Black tradition and innovation.
The FUTURE SOLE program is tailored for currently enrolled HBCU students and recent graduates, providing structured training that reflects real-world industry pathways. Participants will engage in a competitive design process, preparing to showcase their work to leading industry representatives through a final project review at PLC Detroit.
Led by Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, the president of PLC Detroit and former design director at NIKE’s Jordan Brand, this collaboration intends to democratize design education for HBCU students and cultivate collaboration among HBCUs nationwide. FUTURE SOLE|PLC powered by NIKE 3.0 continues to share PLC Detroit’s industry-approved curriculum and inspire other HBCU students interested in design.
Three PLC Detroit department chairs, all of whom are esteemed Nike and Jordan Brand alumni, will lead classes, offering valuable mentorship and practical experience. Edwards notes that “to be taught by former Nike and Jordan Brand design directors is an invaluable gift for any aspiring designer.”
The program creates a real-time professional learning environment, offering guidance both personally and professionally to develop skills needed for successful design careers. “This is PLC Detroit’s learn-by-doing product creation process. By adding an online learning component, we’re able to reach even more aspiring designers and empower them to reach new heights,” Edwards adds.
Throughout their participation, students will have the opportunity to compete for several prestigious opportunities, including the Game Day Experience at PLC Detroit. This one-week project concept development experience includes VIP access to the 2026 National Black Footwear Forum (BFF) entry and events. Selected students will receive comprehensive support covering flight, hotel, transportation, and food to ensure a seamless experience.
Last year’s participants had transformative experiences that profoundly impacted their professional and personal growth. Many shared insights into how the program not only enhanced their skills but also built a sense of community among aspiring designers. As J’Kayla Cameron from North Carolina A&T State University expressed, “My experience during the class not only challenged me creatively, but professionally and personally. Having the ability to experience an environment like PLC with dozens of others who are like me made me feel a newer and exciting confidence in design and myself.”
Building on the sentiment shared by J’Kayla, Brandon Jones from Delaware State University remarked, “The program pushed my creativity, sharpened my marketing skills, and allowed me to collaborate with talented peers from diverse backgrounds who have now become lifelong family.”
LaCellia Pruit from Alabama A&M University echoed this enthusiasm, saying, “Future Sole was a game changer! I learned to design consumer-driven color palettes alongside top-tier mentors in the color and material space, while also building real connections with designers from all over the country.”
Finally, Jonae Sandolph from Prairie View A&M University summed up the experience by stating, “This was a very challenging, eye-opening, and life-changing experience. With the support of the staff, instructors, mentors, and more, it has helped me become not only a better designer, but a better person than I was before.”
Key Program Objectives
- Talent Development: Discover, nurture, and empower HBCU creative talent.
- Industry Exposure: Provide firsthand experience with industry professionals and authentic design processes.
- Skill Building: Develop foundational product design skills alongside critical thinking and presentation techniques.
Goals of the Program
- Equip participants with essential knowledge and industry-aligned skills in product design.
- Foster professional growth and enhance industry awareness.
- Position students within a PLC Detroit-curated talent pool with visibility to leading industry representatives.
Program Details
- Format: Online
- Application Period: NOW – April 12, 2026
- Program Start Date: April 27, 2026
Eligible HBCU students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply for this transformative program and take a significant step toward shaping their futures in the product and creative industries.
