Hi, my name is Amanda James but people call me AJ.
I'm what some might euphemistically call a 'mature student' in KPU's Technical Apparel program. I'm currently balancing this with my full-time role as VP Legal and Corporate Affairs for an equipment manufacturing company. My career spans over 25 years, with 20 of those in executive roles. For more on my professional background, please visit my LinkedIn profile.
Balancing demanding work with school has sharpened my already strong work ethic and this last year has proven I can juggle high-stakes professional demands with hands-on creative work.
Fashion has long been my creative outlet. I love pushing boundaries with avant-garde styles, including my signature hairstyle, and I’m drawn to bright, happy colours, especially my favourite, neon coral. Though sewing was something I was exposed to minimally in childhood, that exposure sparked an interest that never faded. Now I’m diving deeper: the hours spent drafting patterns, cutting fabric, and constructing garments in the sewing lab fly by like minutes.
This site showcases the projects that matter most to me so far:
I currently call the beautiful Pacific Northwest home, but my heart belongs to the deserts of the US Southwest, where I hope to relocate one day and perhaps turn Settlers Workwear into something real, whether as a new career chapter or a passionate side pursuit.
Explore my projects, connect with me, or drop a line at amandameljames@gmail.com.