Clothing and Textiles Careers

The Patternmaking for Product Development certificate program equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the field of textile product development. This program offers a unique perspective on patternmaking and the integration of computer-aided drafting (CAD) tools. Patternmaking Fundamentals merges traditional methods with contemporary CAD technology. 2D Patternmaking with Digital Software integrates digital patternmaking tools for streamlining product development and production while generating accurate patterns. 3D Digital Patternmaking teaches the student 3D prototyping simulations with 3D pattern adjustments, automating the manufacturing process. The union of traditional craftsmanship and modern technological tools is a hallmark of this program. Practical skills will be developed through hands-on, project-based learning in all three courses. Students will create patterns, simulate textile behavior, automate manufacturing processes, and engage in real-world challenges, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the 21st-century workplace.

The Product and Textile Surface Treatments: Embroidery certificate program trains students in employable embroidery and digitizing skills through the combination of two distinct but interrelated courses. The program is designed to equip students with an understanding of the art of embroidery, ranging from traditional hand techniques to cutting-edge industrial machinery and design digitization. The program is suitable for both beginners with a keen interest in embroidery and experienced embroiderers looking to expand their skills and embrace modern technology. It caters to individuals interested in crafting, artistry, and commercial embroidery, and those aspiring to become proficient in the digitization of designs. All skills are acquired through hands-on, project-based learning experiences in student-centered learning spaces.

The Product and Textile Surface Treatments: Digital Printing certificate program offers a comprehensive exploration of the dynamic and innovative field of textile printing and design. This program addresses different aspects of digital textile printing and design techniques. The courses cover various digital printing equipment, including direct to product, dye-sublimation, heat transfer vinyl, laser etching, and 3D printing. Together, these courses provide students with a well-rounded education in digital textile printing, equipping them with highly employable digital skills and the knowledge to succeed in the rapidly evolving textile cut and sew industries. Through hands-on activities, students will create custom textile designs, from clothing to home decor.

The Industrial Sewing and Manufacturing certificate program provides the training necessary for a career in manufacturing cut and sew products from various industries, such as apparel, upholstery, interiors, outdoor gear, military gear, vehicle interiors, medical equipment, boat canvas and interiors, awning, and exterior textile products. In Industrial Sewing Fundamentals, the student learns industrial sewing techniques, terminology, pattern interpretation, textile characteristics, industrial machine operation, safety, and maintenance. In Industrial Sewing Production Skills, the student learns sewn product manufacturing methods utilizing current standards, including production processes, techpack information, order of operations, labor costing, marking and cutting techniques, managing and sewing on production lines, specifications, quality control, finishing, and packaging. The hands-on learning is enriched with industry interactions, ethical sustainable practices, and digital technologies. Skills are evidenced through the skills portfolio and the production of a sewn product.

The Sewn Product Construction Essentials program develops essential foundational skills for construction of apparel and sewn products in the cut and sew industry. Alongside learning basic through intermediate sewn product construction skills for general woven and knitted textiles, the program covers essential knowledge of equipment, tools, fibers, fabrics, and their expected outcomes. With a focus on hands-on, project-based learning experiences in student-centered sewing labs, graduates leave equipped for diverse roles in the cut and sew industry. Jobs for beginning sewists may include positions such as Sewing Machine Operator, Apparel Production Assistant, Alterations Assistant, Wardrobe Maintenance Assistant, Costume Construction and Maintenance, or Quality Control Assistant. With an understanding of product quality, cost, sustainability, and workplace soft skills, the successful graduate is well-prepared to contribute to the dynamic and innovative world of the cut and sew industry.

The Advanced Sewn Product Construction program is designed to equip students with employable advanced sewing construction skills. Building upon the foundational sewing skills covered in the Sewn Product Construction Essentials program, the program delves into the advanced use of sewing equipment, textiles, and patterns. Students engage in hands-on, project-based learning experiences to learn construction skills for pants and lined garments with inner shaping and support structures applicable to both apparel and various sewn products with woven and knitted textiles. Alongside the advanced construction techniques, the program emphasizes product quality, cost analysis, sustainability principles, and essential soft skills crucial for the workplace. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in the cut and sew industry, such as advanced construction sewist, apparel production specialist, costume and cosplay construction specialist, or quality control inspector, where they can apply their expertise in creating high-quality and innovative products while considering cost and sustainability factors.

The Advanced Sewn Product Construction program is designed to equip students with employable advanced sewing construction skills. Building upon the foundational sewing skills covered in the Sewn Product Construction Essentials program, the program delves into the advanced use of sewing equipment, textiles, and patterns. Students engage in hands-on, project-based learning experiences to learn construction skills for pants and lined garments with inner shaping and support structures applicable to both apparel and various sewn products with woven and knitted textiles. Alongside the advanced construction techniques, the program emphasizes product quality, cost analysis, sustainability principles, and essential soft skills crucial for the workplace. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in the cut and sew industry, such as advanced construction sewist, apparel production specialist, costume and cosplay construction specialist, or quality control inspector, where they can apply their expertise in creating high-quality and innovative products while considering cost and sustainability factors.

In the dynamic landscape of the cut and sew industry, where digital transformation is reshaping traditional methods, the Essential Digital Tools for Manufacturing program is designed to prepare individuals for technician roles that bridge the gap between craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies. As employers increasingly seek professionals with digital competency, this program focuses on crafting skilled digital technicians ready to integrate and operate two-dimensional (2D) digital tools, three-dimensional (3D) printing, 3D scanning, laser cutting and engraving, and computer-numerical-control (CNC) machining technologies into the workflow of the cut and sew industry. All skills are acquired through hands-on, project-based learning experiences in student-centered learning spaces. Join us to embark on a career journey that shapes the future of the cut and sew industry. Graduates can pursue careers as skilled digital technicians in 3D printing and scanning, laser cutting, CNC machining, customization of fabrics, and precise manufacturing of sewn product components.