TheTextileGateway.org has assembled a panel of industry leaders to discuss the textile industry. This panel – The Textile Industry Re-Imagined Through Education and Work Force Development – will be part of the expert talks presentation at the Functional Fabric Fair, Apr. 14-16 at the Portland Convention Center in Portland, Oregond.
Panelists include:
- Sasha Stolyarov (CEO, AFFOA)
- Haskell Beckham (VP of innovation, Columbia Sportswear)
- Amy Bircher Bruyn (founder and CEO, MMI Textiles)
- David Hinks (dean, Wilson College of Textiles, NC State University)
- Cheryl Smyre (VP advanced materials | Ciclo, Parkdale Mills)
In particular the group will address critical challenges facing the textile industry, including finding skilled workers, attracting entry-level staff and inspiring next-gen leaders and innovators.
“Today’s elementary and high school students are generally learning very little about textiles, and even less about career path opportunities,”said TheTextileGateway.org director, Tom Swantko. “Outreach is critically needed to educate and excite students about the incredible future of textiles!”
The discussion will be held on Tue., Apr. 15 at 2:30 PM.
