Aberdeen-based design, print and display specialist XIC has welcomed Dylan Whitely to the team as a Dispatch Co-ordinator for the summer, following a successful work experience placement with the business in 2024.
Dylan, who is studying for a BSc in Product Design and Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, first joined XIC while attending Robert Gordon's College after being encouraged to apply for work experience by one of his teachers. Having made a strong impression during his placement, he returned this summer to gain further industry experience before continuing his studies in September.
In his role, Dylan supports XIC's production team by coordinating customer orders, assisting with the assembly, and finishing of printed products, and helping ensure projects are delivered to the company's high-quality standards. He has also received training on XIC's direct-to-object printer, producing branded merchandise for customers. Dylan's interest in product design began during his time at Robert Gordon's College, where Graphic Communication and Engineering Science were among his favourite subjects. His degree combines engineering principles with creative design to develop innovative, user-centred products. One of the highlights of his summer has been working on a bespoke set of branded Rubik's Cubes for Stena Drilling, giving him valuable insight into both branded merchandise and packaging design.
Jason Moir, Director at XIC, said: "We're delighted to welcome Dylan back to XIC this summer. He impressed us during his original work experience placement, and it's been great to see him continue to develop while putting his university studies into practice. Supporting young people as they begin their careers is something we're passionate about, and Dylan has been a fantastic addition to the team."
Dylan Whiteley said: "Returning to XIC has been a brilliant opportunity to build on the experience I gained during my work placement. I've learned so much about the production process, logistics and the scale of the print industry, while also developing my communication and teamwork skills. It's been incredibly rewarding to apply what I've learned at university in a real business environment, and I'd like to thank everyone at XIC for their support."
Dylan will return to the University of Strathclyde in September to continue his studies, with ambitions of pursuing a career in industrial or product design within the technology sector.