Bio:

Derek (he/they) is an entrepreneur and maker based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Central to their current practice is the development of their gender-expansive swimwear brand, to be launched in late 2023. This work stems out of their passion to build community, especially for queer folx, and to shape a more inclusive world. In addition to their enterprise, Derek has extensive professional experience costuming in the film/TV industry, including supervisory roles in costume departments, as well as theater. Their versatile making skillset includes patternmaking/draping, advanced stitching, couture techniques, stretchwear techniques, millinery, fabric dyeing, molds/casting, and historical garment construction. 

After a performing career, which included credits on Broadway and national touring, Derek shifted into a career in costuming. They love to bring their performance background into their approach to costume work, connecting to performers with an intimate understanding of their needs, all the while supporting a designer’s vision.

In their freetime Derek enjoys cycling, gardening, serving as an Executive Committee member on the IATSE Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and as a Trustee for IATSE Local 489, and cutting up a dance floor. They studied MFA Costume Production at Carnegie Mellon University, where they were a recipient of the Bess Kimberly Fellowship, and BFA Musical Theater at The Boston Conservatory.