Exploring the Diverse Programs at Wilson College of Textiles
Textiles are an integral part of our daily lives, finding applications in various fields such as athletic apparel, medicine, fashion, and even national defense. The Wilson College of Textiles at NC State University stands at the forefront of this dynamic and ever-evolving industry, nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators. With a focus on research, education, and collaboration, the college propels the textile industry forward through cutting-edge advancements and forward-thinking initiatives.
A Legacy of Excellence
For over a century, the Wilson College of Textiles has been a pivotal force in the textile industry. Its approximately 11,000 alumni hold diverse positions across various sectors, contributing to the industry's growth and innovation. The college maintains an impressive career success record, with an average of at least 94% of its graduates securing jobs in relevant fields or enrolling in graduate school within six months of earning their bachelor's degree.
Academic Departments and Programs
The Wilson College of Textiles offers a comprehensive range of programs through its two departments:
- Department of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management: This department prepares students for careers in design, retail buying, marketing, merchandising, supply chain management, product development, and product management.
- Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science: Graduates from this department pursue careers in material development for sneakers and outdoor gear, research and development, sourcing and supply chain management, quality control, and more.
Both departments offer opportunities for students to pursue graduate degrees in their respective fields, as well as professional degrees like medicine and analytics. The college harnesses students’ passion for apparel, engineering, fashion, chemistry, sustainability, and change-making through a variety of programs across the two departments.
Undergraduate Programs
The college offers five undergraduate degree programs, providing students with a diverse range of options to align with their interests and career aspirations. These programs include opportunities for international study, with more than 30% of Wilson College students studying abroad.
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For students seeking a seamless transition from an Associate of Applied Science degree, the Wilson College of Textiles has a 2+2 articulation agreement with Gaston College. Students who graduate with an A.A.S. in Textiles Technology and meet eligibility requirements can transfer into the Bachelor of Science in Textile Technology-Undesignated program. This degree offers four concentrations and can be completed as a full-time or part-time student. Gaston College also offers a four-class certificate program.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The Wilson College of Textiles is committed to making education accessible to talented and deserving students. The college offers various scholarship programs, including the Centennial Scholarships, which are awarded annually to up to 10 students. These merit-based scholarships are valued at a minimum of \$60,000 over four years, plus \$7,500 in enrichment grants. The highest Centennial Scholarship is valued at \$95,500. The Textile Pioneer Scholarships provide funding to students from non-metropolitan NC.
Cutting-Edge Research and Facilities
The Wilson College of Textiles is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support groundbreaking research and innovation. These resources include:
- Zeis Textiles Extension for Economic Development (ZTE): ZTE provides training and certification in textiles, as well as programs for improvement and innovation. Its professional education programs offer continuing education opportunities for industry professionals, with seminars, conferences, and executive education courses taught by ZTE Extension Specialists, Wilson College of Textiles faculty, and industry representatives.
- TexLabs: ZTE manages several TexLabs critical to the textile and apparel industry, including Dyeing and Finishing, Knitting, Yarn Spinning, Weaving, and Flex Factory Prototyping.
- Analytical Services Lab: This lab, part of the Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science, offers testing methods such as Thermal Analysis, Spectroscopy, Chromatography, Contact Angle, and Electron Microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
- Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC): TPACC provides research, testing, and evaluation of the comfort and protective performance of textile materials, garments, and ensemble systems. TPACC provides research, testing and evaluation of the Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home Laundering.
- The Nonwovens Institute (NWI): NWI is a dynamic hub for innovation and collaboration in the field of nonwoven materials, fostering an environment where ideas can flow freely and partnerships can flourish. At NWI, an “Open Innovation” approach is embraced. Through its collaborative model, NWI is driving forward the development of next-generation nonwoven solutions to address mission-critical challenges.
- Textile Connect: Developed over a decade ago, the Textile Connect database is a sourcing database highlighting companies primarily located in the southeastern region of the United States. The Wilson College of Textiles received financial support to modernize infrastructure and increase the searchability and granularity of the information on the site, making it a more robust resource for our textile companies. Textile Connect now provides valuable resources for individuals to quickly locate their suppliers and map their locations, a feature that allows users to visualize the geographic distribution of these companies.
These labs enable faculty, graduate, undergraduate, and industry research. Industry services include prototype development, material evaluation, process development and evaluation, and pilot production and analytical services. The Knitting Laboratory provides circular knitting on various machines, including Shima Seiki flat knitting machines. The college partnered with Manual Woodworkers and Weavers, an on-demand print manufacturer in Hendersonville, North Carolina, to create an authentic tartan plaid throw blanket and lambswool plaid cape to support our Flex Factory and its initiatives.
Shaping the Future of Textiles
The Wilson College of Textiles is committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the textile industry. The college is actively involved in initiatives such as:
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- Nearshoring and Co-production: The Wilson College of Textiles secured funding through a USAID grant to expand its presence into Honduras and Central America, primarily focusing on enhancing the region’s supply chain. This initiative includes implementing a nearshore and co-production model with Central America, aligning with the college’s goal of being more responsive to consumer needs and establishing resilient supply chains. “We are collaborating with North Carolina companies that are establishing manufacturing operations in Honduras to capitalize on the trade agreements in the region and utilize the abundant workforce,” stated Sharp.
- Sustainability and Circularity: The college recognizes the importance of sustainability in the textile industry and is actively involved in research and development of better recycling technologies and alternative materials. The college is also working to promote a shift towards small-batch production and customization to reduce waste.
- Textile Electronics: The Wilson College of Textiles is at the forefront of innovation in textile electronics, with a focus on incorporating connectivity into garments and textiles.
- The Manufacturing & Textile Innovation Network: The Textile Technology Center on Gaston College’s Kimbrell Campus is a partner in the Manufacturing & Textile Innovation Network.
- National Council for Textile Instruction (NCTISE): NCTISE aims to advance sustainability in the textile sector across North Carolina, upstate South Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and southwestern Virginia. The initiative focuses on research, development, and workforce training to disrupt the \$96B textile industry. Core partners include NC State University, Wilson College of Textiles, and several community colleges. The program also collaborates with government agencies and private sector companies.
Career Services and Industry Connections
The Academic, Career and Student Services office at the Wilson College of Textiles provides comprehensive career services and scholarship programs for students. The office hosts an industry-specific career fair each semester and provides in-house professional development in areas such as job interviews, resumes, and cover letter writing. The college's strong industry connections provide students with valuable networking opportunities and access to internships and job placements with leading companies like Adidas, The North Face, Patagonia, and Tesla.
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