APDesign In the News

Kansas State University Student Mason Fetter Named Outstanding Finalist for 2025 IDSA Student Merit Awards

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University’s College of Architecture, Planning & Design proudly announces that Mason Fetter, a fifth-year student in the Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design, has been named an Outstanding Finalist in the prestigious Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) Student Merit Awards for 2025.

Recognized for his outstanding talent, breadth of skill, and exceptional presentation ability, Fetter was selected through a competitive internal review process. Faculty judges evaluated student portfolios based on Scope of Work, Quality of Work, Quality of Thought, and Visual Presentation. Fetter’s portfolio, showcasing a compelling range of user-centered, sustainable product designs, impressed the jury and earned him a highly sought-after position in the national competition.

The IDSA Student Merit Awards are regarded as one of the most competitive and respected honors in the field of industrial design. Finalists are chosen from top design programs across the country and are invited to present their work to an esteemed panel of industry leaders.

"This is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Mason’s creativity, leadership, and dedication to the craft of industrial design," said Timothy McKeown, Professor of Practice in the Department of Interior Architecture & Industrial design at Kansas State University. "He exemplifies the values and vision of our program."

Mason Fetter is an industrial designer focused on creating meaningful, user-centered solutions that enhance everyday life. With a foundation in entrepreneurship, he channels product design as a tool to drive sustainable, innovative impact across people, businesses, and the environment. At Kansas State, Mason serves as IDSA Chapter Chair, sits on student committees, and mentors peers to elevate the design community. Beyond his academic and professional work, Mason finds inspiration in the outdoors, new music, and experimenting with plant design.

As he advances to the next round of the IDSA Student Merit Awards, Mason Fetter continues to represent Kansas State University with distinction, contributing to a future where design makes a difference.

APDesign's continued encouragement of faculty, staff and student participation in national and international events like these aligns with the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan's initiative to deliver impactful experiences through participation and interaction with the professional community.