
IDC 2025: Legacy
September 16-19 | Detroit, Michigan
Join us in Detroit, Michigan, for the 2025 International Design Conference, hosted by the Industrial Designers Society of America. This year's theme is "Legacy."
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Legacy is not just about what we inherit; it’s about what we pass on. At this year's IDC, attendees will learn, connect, and share their approach to designing enduring solutions that resonate through generations. From sustainable practices to innovative technologies, we will explore how the decisions we make as designers today can forge a path for future advancements in the industry. Our community of visionaries, disruptors, and change-makers are committed to shaping the future of industrial design while honoring the past.
The current practice of industrial design has reached a critical juncture as we confront a paradigm which promotes resource depletion, generates excessive waste, and contributes to pollution on a global scale. Sustainability is no longer an optional skillset; it has become an ethical imperative. We'll challenge attendees to rethink traditional methodologies, connecting you with the tools and skills you need to move away from a linear economy towards one that embraces circular principles. This commitment to sustainability is essential in ensuring that our legacy is one of responsibility and care for the planet.
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American manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of innovation and resilience. At IDC 2025, we will celebrate this legacy by exploring how craftsmanship and industrial prowess can inspire new generations of designers to create products that are not only innovative but also sustainably produced.
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Rapid advancements in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, continue to reshape our workflows and redefine the value of designers. As these tools evolve, industrial designers must adapt and guide their implementation in responsible and ethical ways. Learn from designers on the cutting edge about how to harness these innovations to enhance human well-being, create meaningful products for our business partners, and elevate everyday experiences through thoughtful design.
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The rapid evolution of new design methodologies, particularly in the wake of emerging technologies calls for continuous learning and adaptation. By fostering a community of knowledge-sharing, experienced designers can pass on invaluable insights, new skills, and innovative practices to the next generation. By supporting design education, embracing diversity, sharing knowledge, and cultivating mentorship, we can inspire a future where design is a powerful force for positive change, ensuring that our legacy is one of innovation, inclusivity, and responsibility.
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As we gather to celebrate and reflect on the legacies that define us, we encourage you to engage, collaborate, and envision a future that honors the past. Together, let's create a dialogue that bridges generations and inspires a design community committed to leaving a positive and lasting impact.
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Be part of this transformative experience at the International Design Conference 2025—where our legacy is shaped.

Schedule At-A-Glance​
Tuesday, September 16
Day 1: Open Design Day (9am-6pm)
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Product Showcase
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Community-Led Sessions
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Exhibits
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Sponsored Events & Tours​
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Wednesday, September 17
Day 2 (7:30am-9pm)
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IDC Opening & Morning Keynotes
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Experiential Workshops
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Afternoon mentoring & content sessions​​​
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Evening Welcome Reception​​
Thursday, September 18
Day 3 (7:30am-11pm)
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Morning Networking & Keynotes
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IDSA Awards & Student Merit Awards Recognition Ceremonies​
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Afternoon Experiential Workshops
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IDEA Awards Ceremony & Gala​​
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Friday, September 19
Day 4 (8am-1pm)
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Morning Networking
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Skill-building Workshops
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IDC Closing and 2026 Announcement​
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Video courtesy of Pure Michigan
Learn, Elevate, Cultivate, Celebrate

Future-Forward Learning
Now, more than ever, industrial designers must demonstrate their value to stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape. The IDC is your compass, guiding you through the skills essential for relevance and connections vital for resilience.
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Elevate Your Craft
From cutting-edge techniques to game-changing approaches, we will uncover new pathways to innovation and chart a course towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
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Cultivate Connections, Spark Creativity
Forge meaningful connections with fellow designers, educators, and industry luminaries. From casual networking sessions to collaborative workshops, cultivate valuable relationships that extend beyond the conference walls.
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