MEDIA RELEASE: May 19, 2026<\/p>\n
A new workforce development initiative, the TextileREADY Education and Training Program<\/strong>, is now available to support the evolving needs of the textile industry by building a pipeline of skilled, industry\u2011ready professionals.<\/p>\n Powered by TextilesUSA<\/strong>, a collaborative digital platform hosted by the N.C. State University Wilson College of Textiles designed to connect education and industry, the TextileREADY learning management system is a joint collaboration between the Wilson College of Textiles and Gaston College\u2019s Textile Technology Center. The program delivers a flexible, on\u2011demand digital training platform that equips workers with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today\u2019s textile and advanced materials sector.<\/p>\n TextileREADY builds on the long-standing history of both the Gaston College Textile Technology Center and N.C. State\u2019s Zeis Textiles Extension in supporting industry through textile testing, product development, and prototyping services. This foundation of applied, industry-facing expertise ensures the training platform is grounded in real-world manufacturing needs and current industry practices.<\/p>\n In addition, the program leverages Gaston College\u2019s established pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship programs, which support advanced manufacturing workforce development, as well as dual enrollment opportunities and K\u201312 outreach initiatives led by both institutions. Together, these efforts create a comprehensive talent pipeline\u2014from early exposure and education through career entry and advancement aligned with industry demand.<\/p>\n The program emphasizes rapid skill acquisition, providing a direct and accessible pathway into the industry through high\u2011quality training aligned with workforce demands. Designed to complement company onboarding processes, TextileREADY supports both new employees and individuals transitioning into careers in textiles and advanced materials, while helping employers strengthen and sustain their talent pipelines.<\/p>\n The platform includes 21 industry\u2011informed training modules<\/strong>, offered as individual courses, guided learning pathways, or fully customizable training tracks tailored to specific company needs. Developed in direct response to industry feedback, course offerings span professional development and soft skills, foundational technical topics such as textile and knitting fundamentals, and essential areas including industrial safety.<\/p>\n Participants earn industry\u2011aligned credentials that reflect current manufacturing and textile standards, ensuring immediate applicability in the workplace. TextileREADY is also in the process of applying for a nationally recognized designation training program, further enhancing its value for both employers and participants.<\/p>\n While current offerings focus on foundational and intermediate skills, future modules will expand to include advanced textile topics, including advanced materials and emerging technologies, with planned collaboration from additional academic and research institutions. TextileREADY is currently available in Spanish and can be adapted to support additional languages. \u201cGaston College is proud to partner with N.C. State\u2019s Wilson College of Textiles through the TextileREADY program to help strengthen and grow the advanced fibers and textile workforce,\u201d said Dr. John Hauser, President of Gaston College. \u201cThis collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, workforce development, and creating meaningful pathways for students into high-demand, high-impact careers. Together, we are not only preparing students for the future, we are helping shape the future of this industry in North Carolina and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe TextileREADY partnership will power advanced manufacturing and produce innovative, career-ready technical textile workers \u2013 future managers and leaders for our state and world,\u201d said David Hinks, Dean of N.C. State Wilson College of Textiles. \u201cIt is a brilliant example of the transformative impact academic-industry partnerships can have on students’ lives through flexible, applied learning and lifetime career support.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe TextileREADY platform represents a major step forward in addressing workforce needs by making industry\u2011relevant training more accessible than ever,\u201d said Davis Warlick, COO, Parkdale Mills. \u201cBy combining academic expertise with hands-on industry insight, TextileREADY is helping prepare a stronger, more future\u2011ready manufacturing workforce.\u201d<\/p>\n
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