BMW: Technical Execution at its Best

I am excited to be joining the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy team. My name is Mike and I am joining the team as Technical Associate. My introduction to the world of design came when I began studying architecture at QUT. While I enjoyed the areas of conceptual and speculative architectural design, I was also passionate about student experience and engagement. I became president of the student group Architects Anonymous, where I led a team of over 10 architecture and design students to implement new initiatives and events including the annual QUT School of Design Ball, and workshops such as a Masterclass Series involving industry leaders. In 2013 I was appointed as the coordinator of Design Project Week, a bi-annual opportunity for QUT Design students to participate in a range of short and intensive collaborative projects, working with industry professionals on real-word projects with industry partners such as Virgin Australia, Stockland, and Brisbane Airport Corporation.

For the last 9 years I have worked as a technician in the QUT J Block Fabrication Workshop, providing technical and design advice and working with design students and staff in development and prototyping of projects, especially in the area of digital fabrication. My current design passion lies in the world of ceramics. From designing and making porcelain vases, I am now utilising my knowledge and experience to develop and manufacture unique bespoke architectural surfaces for the wayfinding design and architecture industry.

As I join this incredible team it’s relevant to note that I have loved BMWs since early childhood, and as such am excited to begin work with one of the world’s leading mobility and technology companies. My role as Technical Associate will be to lead technical administration duties for the Academy as it grows in scope. I will manage the design and research spaces as well as key assets and resources. I’ll also be in charge of implementing workplace health and safety processes for workshops and special events.

I’m very excited for this new role and I look forward to working with the team.

All the best,

Mike Lepre
Technical Associate