FORM 2023 winners make their mark at NeoCon 2023

Formica invited the winners of the FORM 2023 Student Innovation Competition to the NeoCon trade show in Chicago. Tom-Elliott Monette, Dario Duran Godoy, and Meaghan Maass, winners of the grand prize, second place, and third place respectively, attended the event to launch their careers. The NeoCon trade show, held from June 12 to 14, showcased the students' winning work in three dimensions.

"The FORM Competition is not only about stimulating the expression of talent by young North American designers, but it's also about inspiring them as they embark on their careers," said Christelle Locat-Rainville, marketing director of Formica Canada. "By participating in NeoCon, the winners get to appreciate the breadth and diversity of trends in the world of design, as well as the range of materials, designers and companies working in the industry."

The students' Chicago journey included an architectural boat tour, visits to iconic sites, and the NeoCon Talks panel. At the Formica booth, they discovered new products and learned about design processes. The FORM 2023 winners also toured the trade show.

"This trip provi­­­­­­ded me with incredible opportunities and information. It's a unique opportunity for us, as future designers, to interact with the design community and discover the latest trends," said Maass.

The students' participation in the NeoCon Talks panel garnered attention, especially Monette's winning work. 

"I loved seeing my work on display at NeoCon. It was a surreal experience that made me very proud," he said. "I loved my visit, and I highly recommend that students take part in the FORM Competition to get the chance to experience something like this."