Clothing Technologist

A clothing/textile technologist carries out a range of technical, investigative and quality control work on clothing and textiles, ensuring that products perform to specifications. Technologists work on the development of products, improve production efficiency and quality, and liaise with those involved in the production process.

The textile and clothing industries are inextricably linked, starting with the production of fibers, yarns and fabrics, and ending with the sale of finished products, which are mainly clothing but also include household and industrial textiles. The UK has a reputation for high value and innovation in fashion, design and the application of information technology.

Technologists in smaller organizations are usually responsible for both clothing or garments and textiles, but in some large companies, these functions are split. Clothing/garment technologists are involved in all aspects of garment construction and are expected to keep up to date with technical innovations.

They work with a wide range of materials, including natural and synthetic textiles, leather, fur, metals and plastics. Their main responsibilities are to minimize risk, assure quality, support product development and develop supplier relationships. Tasks typically include: liaising with designers, and adapting designs to suit production methods.

Textile technologists are responsible for: developing man-made fibers and the quality assessment of natural fibres,spinning fibers into yarn, and knitting or weaving yarn into fabrics, producing non-woven materials, identifying the latest fabric trends, developments and innovations, overseeing the dyeing, printing and finishing processes.

Ensuring quality in areas such as strength, durability, colorfastness, and water and chemical resistance, advising commercial colleagues on technical aspects of the business, working closely with suppliers and customers.

Some technologists specialize in research and product development, and may: undertake research to find new ways of using yarns, develop chemicals that may be added to fabrics to make them more waterproof, flame-resistant or shrink-resistant, experiment with textiles to improve their look, feel, texture and durability.