Wayne State University metalsmithing alumnus Alex Stchekine discusses his WSU story, career path

Typically, Wayne State University alumnus Alex Stchekine ‘18 shies away from speaking about himself. But ask about his work and Stchekine becomes animated. The self-described late bloomer — who graduated from the James Pearson Duffy Department of Art, Art History, and Design with a BFA in metalsmithing — is currently Innovation Research Manager at Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC).

Prior to his work with ISAIC, Stchekine joined Shinola in 2012 to help create the bicycle category. While there, he produced bicycle concepts and key design elements, along with designing assembly floor plans and workflow processes. He also managed assembly operations, assisting with the design and development of bicycles.

In his personal studio, Stchekine creates sculptural objects and functional designs in metal and concrete. His commercial and residential projects range from gates, railing, bridges (yes, bridges), countertops, sinks, retail fixtures and fireplaces.

Read more below about Stchekine’s WSU story, best Wayne State memory, how the university prepared him for his career path, and more.

How did you come to Wayne State University?

I enrolled at WSU in my late 20s after a long hiatus. I tried college right after high school but didn’t find the right fit. I fit my studies into a full-time work schedule. It took a little longer to finish my degree but the key for me was that I was engaged in the subject matter, and I welcomed the challenge.

How did WSU prepare you for your career path?

The exposure to the art world through classes, visiting artist lectures and exhibits helped me to become the multi-disciplinary artist that I am today. Studying art history and learning the skills of craft taught me the value of research.

What is your best Wayne State memory?

I spent a lot of time in the sculpture department foundry, learning how to cast iron. I was part of a group research grant that allowed us to build an innovative cupola furnace, which we exhibited at the 4th International Conference for Cast Iron Art. We were also invited to travel to England to make cast iron sculpture at the The Ironbridge Open Air Museum of Steel Sculpture.

Did you have any favorite faculty members and/or classes?

Evan Larson Voltz challenged me to think conceptually and consider art as a body of work, instead of projects that you create each semester. He encouraged growth and knew how to apply pressure without stressing me out. My focus was metals, though I really enjoyed my early drawing and painting classes. My parents still have a pencil self-portrait hanging in their home.

Please share more about your career path.

I opened a studio to create functional artwork, combing metals and concrete. Focusing on architectural pieces like gates and railings, as well as concrete countertops and sinks.  A major highlight was creating a large bridge (iron, concrete) for a private residence near Cranbrook.

I joined Shinola when the company first started in Detroit. I was brought on to assist with developing a bicycle category, creating some of the first bicycles and retail fixtures. The experience of building a brand along with the challenges of domestic manufacturing taught many valuable lessons.

And I’m currently the Innovation Research Manager for Detroit’s Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center. A far cry from my fine art studies … but the foundation of research-based learning and understanding of material properties is relevant to my work.

Is there something exciting that ISAIC is embarking on that you would like to share?

ISAIC’s mission is to redefine the future of work by putting people trained in advanced and emerging manufacturing technologies at the forefront of sustainable soft goods production with a commitment to the wellbeing of our team, partners, community, and planet.

I am involved with developing use cases for automation to relieve skilled workers from repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on work that rewards craftsmanship. I also research ways to divert textile waste, as well as manufacturing methods that reduce the amount of waste generated.

Are there any other alumni in your family?

My daughter is a high school freshman, and she is considering WSU as an option when she graduates.

Please share anything else for our readers to know about you, your family, work etc.

I would just like to express love and gratitude to my wife, Melissa, for having the patience to stick with me through all of this!