The FabricLink Network announced the launch of The Textile Gateway, an online platform that connects the textile industry to students of all ages, including elementary school and undergraduate students.
“The mission of The Textile Gateway is to educate and inspire students at all levels about textiles, promote career paths in the industry and serve as a catalyst for future innovation,” says Tom Swantko, director of the The Textile Gateway program. “The gateway is vitally needed to help develop the next generation of leaders, innovators and skilled workforce.”
Outreach to elementary and high school students is a primary focus. The Textile Gateway provides students with age-appropriate resources designed to engage and inspire students to explore the industry. Outreach is also provided to students in colleges and universities, aiding students by bridging the gap between academic studies and real-world applications. Students have access to multiple resources and gain access to industry professionals through articles, videos and live events.
Students will also learn about textile industry workforce development programs. “We are looking to partner with workforce programs that provide internships, apprenticeship, skills-training programs or offer scholarships to students. The gateway is an ideal partner to direct students to these opportunities,” says Swantko.
“We are very excited to partner with The Textile Gateway and support their education and outreach programs,” says Steve Schiffman, president and CEO of Advanced Textiles Association. “Workforce development in the textile industry is a critical initiative and one that requires collaboration between textile-related trade associations, and other like-minded organizations/partnerships.”
“For the textile/apparel industries to present mature ideas and innovations in the future, we need TheTextileGateway.org as a platform where high schools and entry-level college students can have exposure to the many careers and exciting opportunities these industries provide,” says David Parkes, founder and CEO of Concept III Textiles.
The Textile Gateway is also exploring the addition of Family and consumer science (FACS) programs and career and technical education (CTE) curriculums. “We’ve met with administrators involved with FACS/CTE programs, who are excited to hear about what we’re doing and want to know how they can help. There is a real opportunity to promote the textile industry through schools across the U.S.,” Swantko says.
“The Textile Gateway program brings exciting opportunities for our students taking textile and clothing classes, by linking education to the textile/apparel business world. This resource has long been needed for our [Family and Consumer Science Education] FCSE programs,”says Ann Dietchman, supervisor of FCSE education for North Dakota’s Department of CTE, who will be working with The Textile Gateway.
Visit The Textile Gateway at thetextilegateway.org
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