For James Thorn, a successful career in product design began with a recommendation from a Design Technology teacher. Having always enjoyed designing and creating, James was exploring potential career paths when Bournemouth University’s Product Design programme was suggested to him. Following an open day visit and a memorable fish and chips lunch on Bournemouth beach, he knew BU was the right place to begin his journey.

James chose to study Product Design because it combined creative thinking with practical application. One of the aspects he enjoyed most was the balance between classroom learning and hands-on workshop experience. The opportunity to take concepts from initial sketches through to fully realised products was both challenging and rewarding, helping him develop the technical, creative, and problem-solving skills that would become the foundation of his career.

A key part of James’s university experience was the placement year, which provided invaluable industry insight and helped bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. The experience strengthened his confidence, enhanced his employability, and gave him a clear understanding of how his skills could be applied in the workplace. Beyond the course itself, university taught him independence, resilience, and self-organisation, all qualities that have proved essential throughout his career.

James’s professional journey began immediately after graduation when a former BU student, then a Design Manager at Dyson, spotted his work at the degree show. This led to an eight-year career with the company, where he contributed to the design of vacuum cleaners, hand dryers, and fans. He later joined Nash Tackle, establishing its in-house design function and creating innovative outdoor and angling products.

Building on this experience, James spent more than a decade growing Roamwild Products, developing a range of successful household and garden products. In 2026, he took the entrepreneurial leap and founded Field & Wing, a company dedicated to designing and selling premium squirrel-proof and pest-proof wild bird feeders.

Today, James still finds the greatest satisfaction in the same process that first attracted him to design: transforming an idea into a real product. Whether solving technical challenges, refining a concept, or launching a new innovation, he continues to enjoy every stage of the design journey.

Advice for Future Students

James’s advice is simple: believe in yourself, work hard, and be prepared to learn from failure. Some of the best ideas emerge from mistakes, so don’t be afraid to experiment, test new approaches, and take calculated risks. Make the most of placement opportunities, seek out industry experience whenever possible, and trust in the skills you develop during your studies.

“Success rarely happens overnight,” he says. “Stay curious, keep improving, and enjoy the process. You never know where one idea, one placement, or one conversation might lead.”