Tom Grech
Top Designs 2011: Visual Communication Design
Woodleigh School, Langwarrin South
Bunurong Country
2023: Automotive Designer at General Motors
Tom Grech studied a Bachelor of Industrial Design at Monash University. He now lives in the United States, working for General Motors as an Automotive Designer. Currently, Tom works for Cadillac in their Advanced Design Studio. He has previously worked for GMC, Holden and HSV/ Walkinshaw.
Describe your career trajectory since exhibiting in Top Designs.
The opportunity to exhibit at Top Designs was a great chance to showcase my work, but also to gain confidence and encouragement to pursue my career. I went on to complete my Bachelor of Industrial Design at Monash University, which led me to a 12-month working internship with GM Holden to further develop my skills. Since graduating, I have worked for General Motors in Australia and the US, and have continued to follow my passion for automotive design.
What are some of your professional highlights?
Working in the design industry brings many opportunities to meet great, like-minded people and follow an exciting career. Automotive design has led me overseas and introduced me to many creative people from all parts of the world, who I work and collaborate with on a range of exciting future vehicles and projects. Many of these designers are peers that I have looked up to since my days in high school and university, so it’s an exciting opportunity to now be working alongside them. I realised very quickly that no matter what your background is, the language you speak or the path you have taken, everyone is speaking the same language of design and sharing the same passion.
What advice would you share with people starting off in your field?
Sketch, sketch and sketch! Develop your own creative style and message. Be inspired by others but ensure you stand out as an individual. Automotive design is highly creative and competitive, so it’s important to work on developing your own style, view and solutions to design problems. When you’re starting out, interning at a design studio is the best opportunity to network, learn skills from professionals and create a lasting impression for future job opportunities.
