Bob Adams

Bob Adams is a Senior Adjunct Professor at California College of the Arts (CCA), specializing in the Fashion Design Program. He teaches across multiple disciplines including Fashion Design, Industrial Design, MFA Design, and Critical Studies. With over 35 years of experience, he has held teaching positions at Stanford University, the Royal College of Art, and UC Davis, while also maintaining an active design practice and consulting globally on sustainability and innovation.

Adams holds advanced degrees from Stanford University in Product Design and Mechanical Engineering, and from UC Davis in Agronomy. His academic background bridges engineering, design, and environmental science, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to sustainability.

His research focuses on integrating sustainable development principles into design practices. He has pioneered initiatives such as the Design for Sustainability at IDEO, and co-developed the Human Centered Design Toolkit, a globally recognized resource. His work emphasizes transforming industries toward environmentally responsible practices, collaborating with corporations like Procter & Gamble, Walmart, and Adobe, as well as non-profits like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

Adams has received several international design awards for his contributions to sustainable design. His consulting and advisory roles span both corporate and non-profit sectors, including serving on the advisory board for the Circular Design Guide by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

In addition to academia, Adams operates a diversified farm in California’s Sacramento Valley, producing award-winning olive oil and organic agricultural products. This venture underscores his commitment to sustainable systems beyond design, blending agricultural practices with environmental stewardship.