Global Nonwovens Alliance Launches New E-Learning Initiative To Strengthen Industry Knowledge And Professional Development

CARY, NC & BRUSSELS, Belgium — June 23, 2026 — The Global Nonwovens Alliance (GNA), founded by INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, and EDANA, the voice of nonwovens, today announced the launch of a new global e-learning initiative designed to help companies build essential nonwovens knowledge across their functional teams.

The first program available through this initiative is the Fundamental Nonwovens series of e-courses, which offers flexible, accessible learning from anywhere and supports professional development at scale. Developed with the combined expertise of EDANA and INDA, the program provides a common foundation for professionals entering the industry, transitioning into new roles, or supporting nonwovens businesses from commercial, operational, regulatory, technical, or corporate functions.

“E-learning is one of the clearest examples of how the Global Nonwovens Alliance can deliver value to the industry,” said Murat Dogru, CEO, Global Nonwovens Alliance. “By bringing together the knowledge and reach of INDA and EDANA, we are creating a consistent learning experience that helps professionals around the world build a stronger understanding of nonwovens and contribute more confidently from day one.”

Through interactive online modules, learners are introduced to the essential building blocks of the nonwovens industry, including the global nonwovens landscape, raw materials, web formation, web bonding, and related manufacturing concepts. The curriculum will expand further in Summer 2026 to include finishing treatments.

The courses are structured to make complex technical topics approachable without sacrificing industry relevance. Participants gain practical insight into how nonwoven materials are produced, how different processes influence performance, and how nonwovens serve critical applications across hygiene, wipes, filtration, medical, automotive, construction, and other sectors.

For employers, the initiative offers a scalable professional development solution that can be deployed across teams, departments, onboarding cohorts, and international locations. By providing a consistent vocabulary and shared understanding of core nonwovens concepts, the program helps reduce early-stage knowledge gaps, improve cross-functional communication, and support faster time-to-productivity for employees.

The launch also reflects the broader purpose of GNA: to align the strengths of EDANA and INDA in ways that advance the global nonwovens industry while maintaining the regional expertise and member focus of each organization. GNA was created to support greater collaboration, expanded education, stronger industry insight, and a more unified voice for the nonwovens industry worldwide.

“INDA and EDANA each bring decades of trusted industry knowledge, educational experience, and member engagement,” said Hadrien Tournier, Global Director of Professional Development, Global Nonwovens Alliance. “Together, through GNA, we are making high-quality learning more accessible to companies and professionals across the global value chain.”

The Fundamental Nonwovens courses are available now through both EDANA and INDA’s websites.

To learn more or purchase the courses, visit:

INDA: www.inda.org/training/fundamental-nonwovens.php
EDANA: www.edana.org/professional-development/e-learning/nonwovens-fundamentals

Posted: June 23, 2026

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

CreateMe, Avalo And Laguna Fabrics Launch “Seed To System,” The First AI-Powered Apparel Manufacturing Ecosystem

NEWARK, Calif. — June 23, 2026 — CreateMe Technologies, an AI robotics company pioneering automated apparel manufacturing through advanced bonding and robotics, today announced strategic partnerships with Avalo and Laguna Fabrics to introduce Seed to System: a first-of-its-kind initiative connecting climate-smart cotton, domestic textile manufacturing and robotic garment assembly into a single AI-assisted ecosystem. From fields in the heart of Texas’ cotton region to production facilities in California, the partnership aims to demonstrate how apparel can be produced faster, more localized and with greater supply chain resilience.

Seed to System was created to explore a new model for how apparel can be developed and produced across the United States through connected innovation partners. While portions of the apparel supply chain already exist domestically, the industry has historically operated through fragmented systems and with limited coordination between agriculture, textile manufacturing and garment production.

Decades of offshoring in pursuit of lower costs also introduced longer lead times, reduced visibility, increased emissions across the supply chain, and greater inefficiencies between production stages. By connecting climate-smart agriculture, advanced textile development and automated assembly into one collaborative framework. Together, these companies aim to demonstrate a more modern and resilient approach to apparel manufacturing infrastructure.

Cam Myers

“At CreateMe, we believe the future of apparel manufacturing depends on building connected systems across material innovation, textile development and advanced automation,” said Cam Myers, founder and CEO of CreateMe. “This partnership is not about recreating legacy supply chains. It is about building a new foundation for apparel manufacturing, one powered by technical innovation, AI-assisted development and closer collaboration between next-generation partners. Together with Avalo and Laguna Fabrics, we are demonstrating how brands can unlock greater speed, resilience and responsiveness through a more connected manufacturing ecosystem.”

Seed to System will initially launch as a pilot designed to demonstrate how a fully integrated apparel manufacturing system can work in practice. The assembly process begins locally in Texas, with Avalo’s AI-assisted climate-smart cotton innovation, which is then spun into fabric in California with Laguna Fabrics’ knitting and dyeing capabilities. Finally, CreateMe’s commercial-grade and award-winning automated robotic assembly platform, MeRA and Pixel, produces the finished garments at its Newark, CA-based facility.

Tricia Carey

“Avalo leverages AI to naturally evolve cotton genetics to create more efficient and sustainable raw material production, while maintaining quality,” says Avalo’s Chief Commercial Officer, Tricia Carey. “This technology creates much-needed resilience on the farm, and we are excited to partner with innovators that are using AI to deliver the same climate-smart efficiency to the rest of the supply chain.”

“Laguna Fabrics is proud to help connect material innovation to scalable textile development,” said David Roshan, President of Laguna Fabrics. “Building a better apparel system requires practical infrastructure, and this partnership demonstrates how knitting, dyeing and manufacturing can work together in a more transparent and responsive way.”

Building on the announcement, the partners will continue development through the summer with a focus on product design, material storytelling and process visibility ahead of a planned Climate Week activation and capsule launch. Arriving at a moment when brands and policymakers alike are increasingly focused on reindustrializing American manufacturing ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the initiative serves as a physical demonstration of how innovation-led partnerships across agriculture, textiles and automation can help shape a new foundation for apparel manufacturing in the United States. More broadly, Seed to System reflects a new model for how future brands may build products with greater speed, technological integration, supply chain visibility and proximity to demand.

Posted: June 23, 2026

Source: CreateMe Technologies

Thomas Jefferson University Has Announced The Appointment Of Marcia Weiss, MFA, As Dean Of The Newly Formed College Of Fashion And Textiles

PHILADELPHIA — June 20, 2026 — Thomas Jefferson University has announced the appointment of Marcia Weiss, MFA, as Dean of the newly formed College of Fashion and Textiles. Marcia, who has served as Interim Dean, will assume the role on July 1, 2026.

As Interim Dean, Marcia has demonstrated outstanding leadership and selfless service to her programs and the University. She brings to the classroom decades of industry experience, including 19 years at Burlington Industries, where she rose to Vice President of Design for the House Fabrics Division.

A specialist in woven design, Marcia is nationally and internationally recognized in her discipline and well-respected among her peers, students and alumni. Her research interests include culturally significant textile practices in West Africa and Central Asia. An exhibited artist, her work has been displayed throughout Asia, Europe and North America.

In addition to her academic leadership, Marcia maintains a consulting practice spanning color and trend research, multi-layer textiles and advanced woven structural solutions for a range of applications. Her current practice involves the joy of multi-layer ikats, celebrating a rich family history of artisanal craft.

Marcia earned her BS in Textile Design from Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science and her MFA in Fibers from Savannah College of Art and Design. She teaches graduate-level studio courses and is a frequent presenter at conferences and symposia.

Posted: June 22, 2026

Source: Thomas Jefferson University – via LinkedIn

GORE-TEX® Fabrics Portfolio Expands With New Materials And Product Updates

ELKTON, Md. — June 17, 2026 — W. L. Gore & Associates (Gore), founder of the GORE-TEX® Brand, announced new materials and product updates that give its licensed customers more options to meet growing demand for versatile outdoor apparel built for comfort, flexibility, and durability.

These additions include WINDSTOPPER® Stretch Products by GORE-TEX LABS®, updated GORE-TEX® PACLITE® Products, and new GORE-TEX® Laminates made with textile-to-textile recycled face materials.

“We know consumers expect apparel to perform across a variety of activities and environments,” said Richard Leckenwalter, Gore Fabrics consumer garment leader. “Our fit-for-use approach is grounded in how products are used in the real world, enabling us to provide our customers with a broader range of material technologies tailored to specific end uses. These additions provide greater flexibility to develop products that meet changing consumer needs.”

Just as GORE-TEX® Pro Garments are engineered for demanding mountain conditions, these portfolio additions provide more material options for specific end uses, from running and cycling to hiking and everyday outdoor use. Each is tailored to meet distinct performance needs, delivering optimized benefits for its intended use.

  • WINDSTOPPER® Stretch Products by GORE-TEX LABS® deliver comfort through freedom of movement, stretch and breathability for activities like running or cycling. A full portfolio of three-layer laminates that combine trusted windproof protection with integrated stretch technology in a soft material designed to maintain performance through repeated movement and everyday use.
  • GORE-TEX® PACLITE® Products are designed for lightweight protection and all-day movement, transitioning easily from hiking to everyday wear. The updated construction includes a backer that delivers a light, barely-there feel while maintaining the durable waterproof protection consumers expect from GORE-TEX® Products.
  • New GORE-TEX® Laminates feature a textile-to-textile recycled polyester face made from 100% industrial textile waste and represent an important step toward material circularity.

Developed through consumer research, close customer collaboration, and more than 50 years of materials science expertise, these three innovations help Gore’s customers address key consumer priorities. This comes as research shows more than 70% of consumers consider sustainability in apparel purchases, while performance remains a key driver of final decisions.

These material technologies are now available globally to GORE-TEX® Brand licensed customers for integration into future apparel and accessory collections.

Posted: June 22, 2026

Source: W. L. Gore & Associates

Dover Industries Italy Production Plants In Italy Secure Prestigious Triple ISO Certification To Strengthen B2B Supply Chains

MILAN, Italy — June 18, 2026 — Dover Industries Italy Srl has announced that both of its primary manufacturing facilities in Italy—specializing in advanced digital inks (JK Group) and industrial textile printing machines (MS Printing Solutions) —have officially attained a comprehensive triple ISO certification.

The integration of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 establishes an elite Quality, Environmental, and Safety Management System (QHSE) across the company’s Italian production footprint. This milestone directly enhances supply chain resilience, enforces green innovation, and provides global business-to-business (B2B) partners with a measurable competitive edge in sustainability compliance.

The triple certification validates the company’s commitment to optimizing business efficiency while minimizing ecological footprints. By auditing and adjusting its operational workflows, the production plants have systematically elevated their standards to guarantee reliable, fully compliant products that maximize customer satisfaction.

The independent evaluations verify compliance across three international standard pillars:

  • ISO 9001 (Quality Management): Standardizes and refines internal operational processes to ensure the consistent delivery of premium, reliable digital ink formulas and specialized machine manufacturing.
  • ISO 14001 (Environmental Management): Codifies procedures dedicated to reducing environmental impacts, strictly adhering to global regulations, and driving technological innovations designed to conserve water and energy resources.
  • ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety): Mitigates workplace risks, prevents occupational injuries, and solidifies a rigorous culture of preventative safety for employees at every tier of the production organization.

“Achieving this integrated triple ISO certification marks a monumental milestone for our industrial ecosystem in Italy,” said Massimo Cavazzini, Global Sales Director. “This was not simply about meeting regulatory compliance; it is a proactive investment in our partners’ success. By choosing our certified digital inks and printing machinery, our B2B customers directly reinforce their own green credentials, secure their supply pipelines, and contribute to building a smarter, safer, and more sustainable global manufacturing future.”

With global supply chains facing strict scrutiny regarding environmental and workplace transparency, this certification offers verifiable assurance that all production practices align with elite international benchmarks. Global corporate partners can immediately utilize these verified milestones to optimize their upstream scope metrics and corporate sustainability indexing.

Posted: June 22, 2026

Source: Dover Industries Italy Srl

Cotton ConneXions Insight To Impact Brings Supply Chain Leaders Together Around Cotton Innovation

CARY, N.C. — June 18, 2026 — Cotton Incorporated’s Cotton ConneXions Insight to Impact brought together more than 300 industry leaders from 140 companies across 10 countries, including more than 45 top global brands and sourcing organizations, underscoring strong global interest in cotton-rich product development, sourcing and supply chain collaboration.

The one-day event united the global cotton supply chain to discover innovations, generate business opportunities, network and address the challenges and opportunities shaping the fiber’s future amid regulatory shifts and evolving market dynamics.

Attendees heard insights on cotton market trends, changing industry regulations, product development and fashion trends shaping the textile industry, while 38 suppliers from Asia exhibited. Innovative cotton products and technologies highlighted, including:

  • Cotton Flex engineered fabrics for leggings and shapewear
  • FABRICAST™ collection of knits, wovens, activewear and denim constructions
  • Performance technologies that enhance cotton’s natural benefits

“Cotton ConneXions brought the supply chain together around what’s next for cotton textile innovation,” said Bev Sylvester, chief marketing officer for Cotton Incorporated.

“That’s especially relevant as 82 percent of global consumers say they expect cotton clothing to last longer than garments made from polyester, rayon, or other manmade fibers in a recent durability survey. By connecting sourcing teams with suppliers and technical experts, we can help drive products that deliver on durability, performance and consumer demand.”

Through Cotton ConneXions held in Vietnam, Cotton Incorporated convened global decision-makers, facilitating direct engagement between suppliers and sourcing teams, creating new opportunities to accelerate the adoption of cotton products and strengthen relationships across the textile supply chain.

Posted: June 21, 2026
Source: Cotton Incorporated

The Composites Institute (IACMI) Announces Inaugural Rising Star Award Winners

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — June 11, 2026 — IACMI–The Composites Institute®, announced the winners of its inaugural Rising Star Awards, a nationwide initiative aimed at highlighting emerging talent in the manufacturing industry. The five winners and five honorable mentions span across eight states and work in a variety of industry segments, including engineering, forging, machining, metallurgy and smart manufacturing.

“The inaugural class of the Rising Star Awards exemplifies modern manufacturing skills, an eagerness to learn and the ambition to make a measurable impact,” said Justin Brooks, deputy director of workforce development, IACMI. “Manufacturing’s future begins with retaining the great up-and-coming talent already working in the industry. These awards were created to highlight these individuals and motivate them as they continue to advance and shape their careers. IACMI is proud to celebrate these winners and acknowledge the significant influence they’ve already achieved.”

Each of the winners was nominated anonymously by a supervisor at their workplace. To be selected, the nominee must be between 18 and 35 years old and show a significant contribution to their field, measurable impact through problem-solving or innovation, inner motivation, and leadership potential. The inaugural class includes five winners and five honorable mentions:

Winners:

  • Alonzo Bullman – Trenton Forging Company; Trenton, Michigan
  • Julian Espinoza – Gretna Machine Shop; Houston, Texas
  • Nick Knotts – The Lawton Standard Co.; Novi, Michigan
  • Samantha Melnick – SKF USA; Falconer, New York
  • Jake Carney – Trenton Forging Company; Trenton, Michigan

Honorable Mention:

  • Daniel Levine – IsoTruss, Inc.; Springville, Utah
  • Farbod Moghaddam – Sense Manufacturing Inc.; Washington, D.C.
  • Matthew Sausen – Endeavor Composites, Inc.; Knoxville, Tennessee
  • Daniel Stewart – Finkl Steel; Chicago, Illinois
  • Kevin Vazquez – Pyka Inc.; Alameda, California

For the rest of the year, IACMI will publish spotlight features on each winner across its social media channels. The features will showcase details from each submission and offer insights into each winner’s role, increasing visibility into their rewarding careers.

The Rising Star Awards reflect IACMI’s broader commitment to strengthening the future manufacturing workforce by highlighting the people already making a difference on the shop floor, in laboratories, and across production facilities nationwide. Through workforce development initiatives such as America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) and Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeships & Learning (METAL), IACMI works with industry, educators and government partners to expand awareness of manufacturing careers, provide training opportunities, and help employers develop the next generation of skilled talent.

Posted: June 19, 2026

Source: IACMI, The Composites Institute

National Safety Apparel (NSA) Appoints Michael Enright As Chief Executive Officer; Chuck Grossman Jr. To Transition To Vice Chairman

CLEVELAND — June 8, 2026 — National Safety Apparel (NSA), a manufacturer of high-performance personal protective equipment, safety apparel, and electric utility products, announced a planned leadership succession, positioning the company for continued growth and long-term success.

Michael Enright

Effective June 8, Michael Enright will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Chuck Grossman Jr., who will transition to Vice Chairman after nearly 30 years leading NSA.

Mike Enright has over three decades of experience in the protective clothing market and has served as NSA’s President for the past five years as an integral member of the executive team. During that time, he helped expand the company’s market position and advance its strategic vision.

“This transition reflects the strength of the NSA team and our approach to long-term succession planning,” said Grossman. “Mike has earned the trust and respect of our employees, customers, and industry partners through his integrity and proven track record of delivering results. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our mission and values, and I am confident that NSA’s future is in excellent hands.”

Chuck Grossman will be actively involved as Vice Chairman, with a continued emphasis on mergers and acquisitions. He will also continue to support the executive team in advancing NSA’s growth and strategic objectives.

“As I step into the CEO role, I am honored and humbled to be the first non-Grossman family member to lead NSA,” said Enright. “Chuck has helped shape the company into the industry leader it is today. His vision, paired with his dedication to employees and to serving customers, drove more than twentyfold growth during his tenure. He created an extraordinary foundation, and I look forward to building on the Grossman legacy and leading NSA into its next chapter.”

Under Grossman’s leadership, NSA experienced significant growth, expanded its product portfolio and manufacturing capabilities while strengthening its position as a trusted partner in worker safety. This evolution reflects the company’s enduring commitment to its Core Values of Safety, Customer Experience, Collaboration, Innovation, and Growth. These core values have guided NSA’s success and will continue to shape its future.

“This is a logical and exciting next step for our organization,” Grossman added. “I look forward to supporting Mike and the entire NSA team as we continue to pursue new opportunities and create value for our customers, employees, and shareholders.”

Posted: June 19, 2026

Source: National Safety Apparel (NSA)

Vestis Appoints Steve Cochran As Chief Commercial & Supply Chain Officer

ATLANTA — June 8, 2026 — Vestis Corporation, a provider of uniforms and workplace supplies, today announced the appointment of Steve Cochran as Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial and Supply Chain Officer, reporting directly to President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Barber.

Mr. Cochran brings to Vestis over 30 years of leadership experience across the apparel, uniform, and business services industries, with a core focus on commercial strategy and global operations. In his new role, he will lead the Company’s commercial and product supply chain operations.

“Steve brings deep commercial expertise, and a proven track record of leading complex global organizations,” said Jim Barber, President and Chief Executive Officer. “He will help sharpen our focus on growth while strengthening the alignment between commercial strategy and supply chain execution. Steve’s leadership will be critical as we improve the customer experience, enhance revenue quality, expand market share, and create long-term value for shareholders.”

Prior to joining Vestis, Mr. Cochran served as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of TSC Miami / Monster Digital, a provider of digital and printed products serving consumer, retail and e-commerce markets. Previously, he was Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Tegra Global, a manufacturer and supplier of sport and performance apparel, where he led the company through a period of significant growth and a successful exit to a global buyer.

“I am excited to join Vestis at this important stage of the Company’s transformation,” said Mr. Cochran. “Vestis has a clear opportunity to advance commercial growth, strengthen customer relationships and expand its presence in the markets it serves. I look forward to working with Jim and the leadership team to help build a stronger Vestis for the long term.”

Earlier in his career, Mr. Cochran held senior leadership roles at Delta Apparel, Inc., including President and Chief Operating Officer, and served as President of the Delta Activewear division. He also served as President of the Image Apparel Division at VF Corporation. Prior to that, he served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Store Operations at LESCO, Inc. Mr. Cochran began his career at Cintas, where he advanced through leadership positions in sales, marketing, merchandising, and national accounts. Mr. Cochran holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Miami University in Ohio.

Posted: June 19, 2026

Source: Vestis Corporation

Goodwill South Florida Reduces Cutting Room Planning Time From Days To Minutes With Lectra Valia Manufacturing

MIAMI — June 16, 2026 — Lectra, a provider of industrial intelligence technology solutions for the fashion industry, today announced that Goodwill South Florida has implemented Valia Manufacturing, Lectra’s new cloud-based solution to modernize and automate cutting room operations, marking a significant step forward in efficiency and operational performance that will yield nearly a 99% reduction in cutting room planning time.

Based in Miami, Goodwill South Florida operates a centralized manufacturing division producing over one million U.S. military garments annually, including trousers, coats, and combat shirts. As production demands continue to grow, Goodwill identified the need to modernize its planning workflows that were taking up to two days per order to complete.

The deployment of Valia Manufacturing will enable Goodwill South Florida to automate marker planning and nesting, integrate order data directly from its ERP system, and gain real-time visibility across planning, spreading, and cutting. The result is a faster, more connected workflow that replaces manual, spreadsheet-driven processes with AI-powered decision-making.

“We set out to fundamentally rethink how our cutting room operates,” said Eduardo Dominguez, Vice President of Manufacturing at Goodwill South Florida. “Valia Manufacturing allows us to replace manual planning with intelligent automation to build a smarter, more connected cutting room. The speed, visibility, and control we gain across our entire workflow will have a lasting impact on how we produce and scale moving forward.”

By implementing Valia Manufacturing, Goodwill South Florida expects to:

  • Transform planning from a two-day process into a 15-minute task — a 99%-time reduction
  • Achieve around 1% in material savings.
  • Realize a payback period of approximately five months.
  • Deliver nearly $400,000 in net savings in the first two years, while also reducing manual intervention and improving production control.
John Brearley

“With Valia Manufacturing, Goodwill South Florida is taking a decisive step toward a fully connected, Industry 4.0 enabled cutting room that is built for the future,” said John Brearley, President, Americas at Lectra. “In today’s fast-paced manufacturing landscape, the ability to accelerate operations and adapt to shifting market demands is a critical competitive advantage. By automating planning and connecting systems end-to-end, Valia enables manufacturers unlock speed, improve material utilization, and gain the operational visibility needed to scale efficiently. This collaboration demonstrates how intelligent automation can deliver rapid, measurable impact in high-volume production environments.”

Valia Manufacturing will integrate into Goodwill’s existing technology stack, connecting ERP order intake to planning, nesting, and cutting execution within a single, unified platform. Beyond near-term financial returns, the project lays the foundation for scalable growth and greater agility, marking a key milestone in Goodwill South Florida’s shift toward a more efficient, data-driven manufacturing operation.

Posted: June 19, 2026

Source: Lectra

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