Tyler Templeman photo
Ron Catahan is the coordinator for the Fashion Design Program at The International Academy of Design and Technology.
Name: Ron Catahan
Years of experience: Fashion industry – 22 years, Teaching – 17 years
Occupation: Coordinator, Fashion Design Program, The International Academy of Design and Technology
Q: How did you get started in fashion?
A: My interest in this field started in high school, taking fashion illustration in art class. I discovered a passion and furthered my studies at Ryerson University. After finishing school, I worked for various companies for five years and later found my true love, which is teaching.
Q: Describe the ideal qualities a person should have to succeed in your industry?
A: To succeed in any industry you need combinations of many qualities. But in this one, the most important is to be level-headed. It can get very obsessive and one needs to step away from it a little to get the right perspective.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: As an educator, I thrive on success stories. It inspires me hearing about my students doing well. What is wonderful also is IADT pushes their people to keep involved in their industry, so I take advantage of that by working with designers during Toronto Fashion Week.
Q: What are the most challenging aspects of your industry?
A: The most challenging about this industry is gaining the ability to marry different aspects. Creativity isn’t enough, there is also the science of fitting clothes … and the business end of it as well. There comes a realization finally you can’t do it all. Eventually you need a good team behind you. The advantage is there are so many areas of the industry you can specialize in.
Q: For newcomers to the industry, what tips would you offer on getting started in their career?Â
A: It is important for newcomers to always be current in fashion. It changes so quickly; read magazines, watch fashion on television and window shop. More importantly, learn about the Canadian fashion industry.
Q: What kind of local associations/organizations/volunteer activities would you recommend for people just starting out?
A: Get involved in high school fashion shows. There is of course Toronto Fashion Week, they always need volunteers, check their website. There are lots of Charity Fashion Events that occur throughout the year like Fashion Cares. Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and contacts.
