Exploring Pinterest's Product Design Apprenticeship Program
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Introduction to the Apprenticeship Program
The Product Design Apprenticeship at Pinterest, initiated in 2016, aims to open doors for individuals from diverse and often underrepresented backgrounds in the technology sector. This includes women, Black/African American, Latiné or Hispanic, American Indian, Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Through hands-on training and guidance from dedicated mentors, apprentices confront real-world challenges at Pinterest while honing the skills necessary for a successful career. In 2021, Pinterest broadened its Engineering Apprenticeship Program to include roles in Product Management, UX Research, and Product Design.
In this discussion, Amy Lima, the first Apprentice Product Designer at Pinterest, along with her mentor, Alan Walker, shares insights and advice for prospective applicants.
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Understanding the Apprenticeship Journey
Amy: I’m a first-generation American and college graduate who transitioned from the music industry to design. After completing an online bootcamp during the pandemic, I impulsively applied to Pinterest’s Apprenticeship program upon graduation. Soon after, I became Pinterest’s inaugural Apprentice Product Designer on the Creators team!
Alan: My career began as a high-school educator, where I creatively integrated design into my curriculum. My journey into design was sparked by exploring IDEO's Design Thinking for Educators. Following an MFA, I worked full-time in design at a small agency focusing on educational tools. Now, I serve as a Design Manager at Pinterest and have mentored Amy throughout her apprenticeship.
Comparing Apprenticeships and Internships
Amy: The primary distinctions between apprenticeships and internships lie in the backgrounds of the candidates and the program structure. Internships at Pinterest target current undergraduate or graduate students, focusing on significant projects that contribute directly to team objectives. Notably, the inclusive skin tone ranges were developed by passionate interns. Internships last for three months during summer breaks.
Conversely, apprenticeship programs are tailored for candidates from unconventional tech backgrounds who face challenges in entering the industry. Apprentices usually have prior professional experience and are starting new careers, allowing them to develop their skills through hands-on work on impactful projects as integral team members. These programs can extend up to 12 months and include quarterly evaluations, with chances for full-time conversion.
Video: UX Academy Alumni Spotlight ⭐️ Amy Lima, Product Design Apprentice at Pinterest
The Daily Life of an Apprentice
Amy: My typical day begins with a stand-up meeting with my mentor to discuss current and upcoming projects. I spend around 2–4 hours in meetings and 4–6 hours focused on design tasks. These meetings include design critiques, check-ins with my mentor and teammates, and collaborative brainstorming sessions.
Do Apprenticeships Come with Compensation?
Amy: Absolutely! Pinterest apprentices earn competitive salaries comparable to full-time employees, along with comprehensive medical and mental health benefits, flexible PTO, and a monthly stipend for professional development.
Mentorship Dynamics
Alan: A mentor in the apprenticeship is involved in the apprentice's daily activities, ensuring their success in both the program and their career. Typically, mentors are experienced individual contributors, offering tailored guidance and support. Both the mentor and apprentice report to a design manager, who oversees project alignment with broader organizational goals.
Reasons for Joining the Apprenticeship
Amy: I sought a design-driven company that would challenge my skills and support my growth. The apprenticeship at Pinterest provided the ideal structure with performance benchmarks, regular reviews, and professional mentorship while working on high-impact projects.
Alan: This program opens pathways for those who may not have followed traditional routes into design. As designers, it's crucial to include diverse backgrounds in the design process to create better user experiences.
Key Characteristics of Successful Apprentices
Amy: Being proactive, collaborative, and adaptable is essential for success in the apprenticeship. Establishing relationships with colleagues and being flexible in the face of challenges are vital traits.
Alan: Resilience is also critical; apprentices must handle setbacks and view them as learning opportunities. An understanding of user perspectives is vital for effective design.
Reflecting on the Apprenticeship Experience
Amy: One of my biggest surprises was the abundance of opportunities to engage beyond my immediate team. The talent and willingness to collaborate within Pinterest's design organization have allowed me to contribute in various ways.
Alan: Amy's proactive approach has significantly enriched our team culture, promoting accessibility and collaboration.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
Amy: Cultivate a growth mindset. Stay curious and push yourself to tackle complex projects.
Alan: Take ownership of your design journey. Find what works for you, as there is no single path in design.
Interested in joining Pinterest’s Apprenticeship Program? Explore open positions and apply through the official site. For further insights into design and research at Pinterest, follow us on Twitter.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to clarify aspects of the apprenticeship program.