PORTLAND, OR – Eli Mikiten, a recent graduate of the University of Oregon’s acclaimed product design program, is earning recognition for his innovative approach to creating solutions for everyday life. Mikiten, who successfully completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts in product design and a minor in business entrepreneurship in June 2025, has developed a portfolio showcasing both creativity and a practical understanding of bringing ideas to fruition.
His final year of undergraduate study was spent at the University of Oregon’s campus in Portland, a dynamic urban environment that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and design innovation. It was here that Mikiten immersed himself in the rigors of his field, navigating late nights in the design studios and engaging in collaborative projects that sharpened his skills and expanded his perspective.
Immersive Education and Practical Experience
A significant component of Mikiten’s senior year involved a valuable internship focused on designing electric bicycles. This experience provided him with critical, hands-on exposure to the practical aspects of product development within a professional setting. Working on electric bicycles allowed him to apply theoretical knowledge to tangible engineering and design challenges, reinforcing the concepts learned in the classroom.
Throughout his four years at the University of Oregon, Mikiten consistently demonstrated an ability to conceptualize and develop innovative ideas. His undergraduate work culminated in a diverse portfolio reflecting his unique design sensibilities and problem-solving capabilities.
Designing for Specific Needs: The Sled Hockey Prototype
One notable project that exemplifies Mikiten’s inventive approach is his design prototype for specialized sled hockey gear. Recognizing the unique demands and risks associated with this adaptive sport, Mikiten engineered a prototype that significantly enhances player safety and performance.
The gear incorporates advanced padding strategically placed to absorb impact and protect players during the rigorous physical contact inherent in sled hockey. Furthermore, it integrates sophisticated cut-resistant materials, a crucial feature given the proximity of players to skate blades. This project highlights Mikiten’s capacity to identify specific needs within a niche user group and develop tailored, effective design solutions.
Recognition on the National Stage
Mikiten’s talent and promising portfolio did not go unnoticed. He was selected as the representative for the University of Oregon in the prestigious 2025 Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) Student Merit Awards. This selection is a significant honor, highlighting his standing as one of the top emerging designers from his graduating class and providing a platform for national recognition within the industrial design community.
From Inspiration to Innovation
Mikiten’s path into industrial design was initially ignited by a powerful source of inspiration: attending a speech delivered by former Apple chief design officer Jony Ive. Ive, renowned for his role in shaping iconic Apple products, articulated a vision of design that resonated deeply with Mikiten, sparking an early and enduring interest in the field and its potential to shape human experience through objects.
His education at the University of Oregon, particularly the opportunities available during his time in Portland, provided him with the practical knowledge necessary to translate inspiration into reality. He valued the emphasis on understanding the entire product lifecycle, including conducting thorough research, developing detailed schematic drawings, and navigating the complexities of communicating effectively with manufacturers to ensure designs can be efficiently and accurately produced.
As Eli Mikiten embarks on his professional career following his June 2025 graduation, his academic achievements, practical experiences, and early recognition point towards a promising future in the field of product design, where he is poised to continue creating innovative solutions for everyday life.
