About Me //
My name is Benjamin Schnieper. I recently graduated as an Industrial Designer from Arizona State University. While exploring the world, I have always been drawn to figuring out how things are made, what goes into the objects we surround ourselves with, and how I can become someone who has a hand in creating what people love.
As an Industrial designer, I have explored many design areas, from sketching to metalwork. I have always had a passion for adding new skills and improving myself. As a kid, I always loved sketching and drawing, but I developed a deeper love for CAD and 3D Rendering. One of my favorite things is to take an idea and fully model it, watching how each piece comes together and how all the moving parts work towards one final complete object. I love to view each project as a puzzle without a picture and with pieces I get to design myself!
Apart from design, I love art and I love my community! I have always enjoyed all art mediums such as painting, clay making, collages, costume making, and even digital styles! I have spent so much time of my life working with my hands such as being on the mechanical crew for my high school Robotics Team (Go Firebirds!), doing multi-material projects for a top-rated Doctor Who-themed escape room, and exploring silversmithing and traditional jewelry making through ASU and local Indigenous jewelry makers. I’ve worked with a multitude of tools, finishes, materials, and computer programs throughout my journey. I love both being on a team and taking my own direction and leading my projects!
I have always wanted to be part of something more, to put my abilities to something greater than myself and give back to the communities that raised me. Growing up I was part of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and have been part of their community for almost 15 years. Through them I learned how much I loved seeing people grow, watching people change for the better, and having something more than myself to be proud of. Through them, I led a volunteer team, mentored youth, and ran programs where I could help kids and teens grow, showing me how much I enjoy leading and teaching others to help get them as far as possible. I have been able to meet and befriend many colleagues, leaders, and even some of the children there and they remind me every day of how great I can be.
At the end of the day, I am Ben. I am a curious designer, explorer, mentor, and hopefully, a good friend. I want to explore everything the world offers, create a lasting impact on people, build good relationships, and continue growing for the rest of my life. Currently, I am still honing my CAD & rendering, but I have taken a deep dive into jewelry making and have some big dreams that I have begun to work towards.
If you are at all interested in getting to know me then I am sure I would love to get to know you too! Please feel free to contact me from the main page of my site, I would love the chance to get to hear from you!
Past Experience //
Signet Jewelers – Apprentice Jeweler
Beginning a professional exploration of jewelry from an Apprentice level understanding the construction, design, and business behind fine jewelry. Currently learning repairs as well as developing skills with polishing, gold & electroplating, and understanding the materials and processes with fine metals and stones.
Luminosity Lab ASU – Industrial Designer, Student Worker
Student Worker/Industrial designer, part of the Luminosity Design team specializing in Industrial design fields for various projects. Work on the team includes different prototyping stages with multiple materials, sketching and research ideating, and industrial design assistance in workshops and in UI/UX. Explored work and furthered skills in programs such as Solidworks, Keyshot, Figma, Miro, and more. Notable projects include being an assistant Industrial designer for the 2024 NASA Big Idea Proposal where we were chosen as one of the 6 finalist teams to continue research.
Dynamic Escape Rooms – Shop Assistant (Workshop & Design)
Shop assistant specializing in designing and building custom props for a diverse set of environments for themed escape rooms. Worked alone and in a team on various projects utilizing materials such as wood, metals, paints, and stains, and using small and large power tools. Took part in understanding how humans think and interact with their environment in order to accomplish tasks and solve puzzles and problems.
Cabinets by C&F – Design Assistant
Assistant designer for the head salesman/designers for kitchens and interior-based design. Assisted with designing several custom kitchen and closet designs and around the office with paperwork, managing calls, shop upkeep, and any needs from the head designers and company owners. My first experience designing for living and lived-in environments and managing orders and documentation on the business end of design.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale – Staff & Volunteer Program Lead
Summer Volunteer Program Lead/Coordinator, utility staff, mentor, and activity lead. Spent time in each section of the Boys and Girls Club, working with children from kindergarten to 12th grade teaching STEM, physical education, art projects, various club and community programs, and heading a Leader In Training Summer Volunteer Program (2023). Was noted by supervisors as a top utility staff with the “ability to improve any activity and leave an area better than when he arrived”.
Certifications & More //
Certification for Mechanical Design – Dassault Systemes (Solidworks)
Associate Level Solidworks Certification through Dassault Systemes for CAD modeling & simulations.
PetSmart Professional Mentorship Program
Mentee in a six-month mentorship program to enhance skills in communication, collaboration, professional practices, resume building, and interview prep to be more successful in a corporate environment.