Online Learning

Discover, learn, and teach! AATCC educational programs are designed for all members of the textile community to connect and exchange information and ideas.

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  • Digital Labs

    AATCC Digital Labs are web-based trainings, lectures, and informational discussions that explore textile-related topics with industry experts.


    DIGITAL LABS REGISTRATION FEES
    AATCC INDIVIDUAL MEMBER OR CORPORATE MEMBER*INDIVIDUAL NON-MEMBERGROUP RATE (MEMBERS ONLY)**
    Live or Archived - Single Session AccessUS$99 (live early registration & archived);
    US$119 (live final registration)
    US$169 (live early registration & archived);
    US$189 (live final registration)
    US$2,250
    Live or Archived - Unlimited Annual Access
    US$1,500US$2,750US$34,000
    *If your company is a corporate member of AATCC, you must register offline to receive the corporate member discount. Please contact Kim Nicholson for details.

    **Recommended for large groups of 23pp+. Available for AATCC corporate members only.

  • Textile Fundamentals Series

    AATCC and the TexEd department of the College of Textiles at North Carolina State University offer online instruction on demand! Textile Fundamentals provides in-depth study from fiber to finishing. Participants view processing operations and techniques via 3-D animation and video clips. Choose one module, or learn complete series.

     THE TEXTILE FUNDAMENTALS MODULES ARE CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE FOR REGISTRATION. 

    Click to order!Series FeaturesModule Descriptions

     THE TEXTILE FUNDAMENTALS MODULES ARE CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE FOR REGISTRATION. 

    Features
    – Graphic animations and simulation videos
    – 14 separate modules
    – Tests and exercises
    – Narration text
    – Glossary
    – Detailed index of topics covered Benefits
    – Practical knowledge for the workplace
    – Management decision tools
    – Insight into the entire textile formation chain
    – Learn from the comfort of your office, home, or anywhere internet access is available
    – Learn at your own pace
    – No travel expense; zero nights away from home
    – Certificate of Achievement

    Fees
    – AATCC members: US$75/module
    – Nonmembers: US$105/module
    – 2-months access

    Computer Requirements
    – High-speed internet to properly access the eLearning products
    – Monitor/screen resolution of 1024 X 768

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    The Fundamentals of Fibers Module presents basic information and terminology related to fiber identification, classification, production, and properties. It introduces the concept of polymerization and explains how the chemical composition and physical structure of a fiber influence its physical, chemical, and comfort properties. You will learn the generic names for fiber classification as defined by the Federal Trade Commission and be able to differentiate between natural and synthetic fibers. Physical, chemical, and thermal properties of many of the natural and synthetic fibers in use today are reported and described, as well as typical production procedures for synthetic fibers. The module will also enable you to be able to relate fiber properties to the resulting fabric properties in the end-use product.

    The Texturing Fundamentals Module will give you an insight into the fundamentals of texturing. Content includes descriptions of the technology of the process, historical developments in technology, and types of texturing currently used are all discussed in detail. Important yarn property considerations, key processing steps and other key parameters for process control are included as well.

    The Spun Yarn Manufacturing Module covers all the processing steps in the production of a short staple spun yarn, beginning with opening, cleaning, and blending and concluding with spinning and winding. The viewer will learn the key objectives of each process and gain knowledge of the many variables affecting yarn quality and production. All major types of short staple spun yarns are included along with their specific properties. Plied yarns and novelty yarns are also presented along with the major yarn numbering systems.

    The Fundamentals of Warp Preparation Module discusses the importance of warp preparation as it relates to efficiency and quality in weaving and warp knitting. The types and applications of warping and slashing equipment are discussed, and the important variables of each are highlighted.

    The Fundamentals of Warp Knitting Module will begin with some key information on warp beam formation and its relevance to the warp knitting machine. The key elements of tricot and raschel warp knitting machines will be presented along with the different types of fabrics that can be produced from these types of machines. Two bar fabrics, open-work fabrics, laying-in three and four bar fabrics, and two needle bar fabrics will be addressed. Examples of knit design notation for different warp knit fabrics will also be presented. Actual fabric swatches are viewed in normal and close-up range for many different knit designs. Videos and animations will enhance the viewer’s understanding and concept of warp knitting.

    The Fundamentals of Weft Knitting Module begins by introducing weft knitting and warp knitting and then proceeds to elaborate on weft knitting. Key machine elements are presented along with important knitting terms and definitions. Single knit machinery and fabrics, double knit machinery and fabrics, and flat-bed knitting are discussed. Different types of knit loops and their influence on the fabric properties are also covered. Actual fabric swatches are viewed in normal and close-up range for many different knit designs.

    The Weaving Fundamentals Module presents the basic motions of weaving, types of shedding, methods of filling insertion, woven fabric production calculations, basic woven design, and woven fabric properties. Derivatives of the basic weave designs are covered along with the different types of pile fabrics.

    The Fundamentals of Nonwovens Module will discuss the major web forming technologies, with an overview of the processes involved. The technologies used for bonding with representative product types and advantages are explored.

    The Fundamentals of Fabric Preparation Module is an overview of major technical processes used on fiber, yarn, or fabric to prepare them for subsequent processes such as dyeing, finishing, printing, and other apparel and non-apparel processes. Chemical and mechanical processes are discussed as related to function and technical procedures.

    The Color and Color Properties Module covers information that will help you gain a better understanding of the variables that influence color perception. Current methods of shade matching and color measurement are presented. The relationship between perceived and acceptable color differences is discussed.

    The Dyestuffs and Applications Module presents the objectives of dyeing and the keys to good quality dyeing. Dyestuff properties and methods of dyeing blends are discussed. Different types of dyeing equipment are reviewed along with advantages and disadvantages of each type.

    The Printing Fundamentals Module presents methods of textile printing and describes the equipment employed with each method. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are also explained. An overview of digital ink jet printing is given with the current systems available.

    The Chemical Finishing Module is a review of techniques used to apply chemical finishes to textile products. The more frequently used chemical finishes for textiles are discussed as related to function and chemistry involved.

    The Mechanical Finishing Module is a review of mechanical processes applied to fabrics that add special surface effects and appearance value. The machines used for modifying textile fabric surfaces are explained.

  • Subject Matter Experts

    Subject Matter Experts are voluntary teachers, regularly participating in AATCC educational activities. To be recognized as a Subject Matter Expert, volunteers must lead at least two Digital Labs and two in-person educational presentations, OR lead at least four Digital Labs; and be a member of AATCC. AATCC Subject Matter Experts are the leaders and innovators of the textile industry. They have a passion and commitment to explore new ideas, solve problems, drive change and most importantly, share knowledge with others. With their help, the future of textiles is bright!

    Get involved and become a SME with AATCC! 

    The views, thoughts, opinions, and advice provided by and/or expressed by a Subject Matter Expert belong solely to the Subject Matter Expert, and not AATCC.  

Roland Connelly

Consultant, RoLyn Group

Areas of Expertise: Color Science, Lighting Science, Color Application and Management, Color Quality Control & Quality Assurance

Roland is a color & lighting consultant with RoLyn Group. Prior to consulting, he was the Director, Global Digital Supply Chain, for X-Rite as well as a Director of Enterprise Color Management with GretagMacbeth. Until 2003, he was President and co-owner of SheLyn and before that, worked as a Color Lab manager for 18 years with Burlington. Roland has over 50 years experience in color management and control.  He is a frequent lecturer and author of numerous papers studying a range of subjects, from Colorant Formulation to Instrumental UV Calibration.  Roland has served as President of AATCC, Chair of RA36-Color Measurement, member of Board of Directors, and many other committees. He is the recipient of the AATCC Chapin Service award. He is also a former ISCC President, board member, Interest Group Chair, and recipient of the 2020 ISCC Macbeth Award. He is active in ASTM E-12-Color and Appearance and the CIE, and has committed many years of service as the US spokesperson for color measurement in ISO TC38, Textiles.

He received his BS in Textile Science and MS in Color Science from Clemson University

Nelson Houser

Retired, Archroma US

Areas of Expertise: Dye Chemistry, Dye Application, Color, Textile Manufacturing, Textile Science, Dye & Finishing Quality Control & Assurance

A 1967 graduate of the College of Textiles NCSU with a BS in Textile Chemistry, Nelson E. Houser has served in various technical and management positions with dyestuff and chemical suppliers, and wet processors. Previous positions include Technical Service with Archroma; Vice-President of Technical Service for M. Dohmen USA; Vice-President Technical Marketing for Burlington Chemical Co. LLC; Technical Director with the Textile Products Division of Ciba-Geigy Corp.; and Technical Manager with American Color and Chemical. Manufacturing experiences include management and technical positions with M. Lowenstein, Burlington Industries, and Beaunit Corp. After 53 years in the textile industry, Houser retired in June 2019. Houser has also worked with technology transfer programs at the Wilson College of Textiles at NCSU.

Houser has been an active member of AATCC for over 40 years. He served as President of the Association from 1997 through 1998. He chaired numerous committees, including the Education Advisory and Publications Committees, and Colorfastness to Perspiration Test Method Committee, and is presently serving on several technical and administrative committees. In 2003, Houser was awarded the AATCC Harold C. Chapin Award for distinguished service to the Association, and in 2015, received the AATCC Education Award. Additional recognitions include the 2000 Textile Leader of the Year by the Kappa Tau Beta Leadership Fraternity and Phi Psi Professional Textile Fraternity at the College of Textiles at NCSU, and the 2001 Textile World Annual Top 10 for service and dedication to the textile industry. A frequent speaker on textile wet processing, Houser has made numerous presentations at AATCC workshops and symposiums, NCSU programs, Clemson University programs, and various trade association programs.

Ann Laidlaw

Consultant, ACL Color Consulting LLC

Areas of Expertise: Color Science, Lighting Science, Color Applications and Management, Color Communication, Color Quality Control and Assurance

Ann Laidlaw works with manufacturing and retail supply chain accounts at ACL Color Consulting LLC. Her industrial career includes X-Rite Inc, GretagMacbeth, SheLyn, and Burlington Industries. Throughout these companies, Ann worked to investigate innovative applications of color management for textiles and related industries. She is an active member of several color-related organizations, including ISCC, CORM, SPE, and DCC. She has served on ISCC, AATCC, and CORM Boards in the past. She is active in AATCC and is a former chair of both the Color Measurement Test Methods (RA36) committee and the C2C (Concept to Consumer) Interest Group. She received the ISCC Nickerson Award and the AATCC Chapin Award for service.

Ann is a frequent lecturer at industrial short courses and webinars. She is interested in color communication, color difference metrics, sample measurement issues, and how to leverage maximum benefit out of these solutions for retailers and their supply chains.

She received her BS in Textile Science from University California, Davis, and MS in Color Science from Clemson University.

Seshadri Ramkumar, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Technical Textiles, Texas Tech University

Areas of Expertise: nonwovens, nanotechnology, functional materials, health and safety materials, material development, technology transfer and commercialization

Nonwovens and Advanced Materials Laboratory, Texas Tech University
Ph.D. Materials, Textiles and Fiber Science, University of Leeds, England 1998; M.S. Technology, Anna University, India 1994; B.S. Technology, Anna University, India 1992

Dr. Seshadri Ramkumar is currently an Associate Professor of Technical Textiles in the Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University. His research focuses on developing value-added materials using nonwoven and nanotechnology. He supervises the Nonwoven and Advanced Materials Laboratory at The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, TTU. He currently holds two US patents and two US pending applications. He is the editor of a comprehensive magazine on technical textiles: Nonwoven and Technical Textiles that will be published from fall 2007. He is the editorial board chairman of Nonwoven and Technical Textiles Journal. He serves in the editorial boards of three international peer-reviewed journals. He is the Co-chairman of The Association of Nonwoven Industry’s India committee. He has successfully organized four international conferences on advances in fibrous materials. To date, he has graduated 13 MS and PhD students at Texas Tech University. His research on nonwoven decontamination wipe has resulted in technology transfer and will be commercialized very soon.

Dr. Ramkumar is an active member of AATCC and is a frequent presenter at the AATCC International Conference and other Association programs.

Louann Spirito

US & Canada Softlines Business Head, SGS North America Inc

Areas of Expertise: Testing Processes, Testing Equipment, Quality Assurance, Regulation and Compliance

Louann Spirito is the US & Canada Softlines Business Head at SGS North America Inc, Consumer and Retail where she leads business development and account management for global clients, as well as the technical team and textile laboratory in Fairfield, NJ.

Louann started her career with US Testing Company as laboratory supervisor and thereafter, she worked in Quality Assurance for AMC, Calvin Klein, and Frederick Atkins. She has a BS in Textile Science from University of Rhode Island and over 20 years experience in the Textile and Apparel industries.

Louann is an active member of AATCC and ASTM and sits on several technical committees in these associations. She has served as Secretary of the ASTM D13 Executive Subcommittee and chaired the C2C Interest Group and participated in the Executive Research Committee of AATCC. She is also an active member of the Product Safety Committee of AAFA (American Apparel and Footwear Association) and has been closely involved with CPSIA and chairs the SGS Global Competency Support Center.

Louann is a frequent presenter at industry seminars and conducts training workshops for apparel and footwear testing. She has contributed a chapter on Textile Testing to Birnbaum’s Global Guide to Material Sourcing by David Birnbaum, as well as various articles on textiles and testing.

 

Min Zhu, Ph.D

Technical Director, SGS North America Inc

Areas of Expertise: Testing Processes, Testing Equipment, Regulation and Compliance

Min Zhu is Technical Director for Softlines at SGS North America. Min leads the America’s Softlines technical team to develop testing programs and provide technical services to US and Canada clients. She also coordinates with SGS Softlines global teams to implement softlines policies, regulations and technical initiatives in the North America. Prior to SGS, she was an assistant professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and served in BASF, Cotton Incorporated, and TAL Apparel Ltd. respectively. Dr. Zhu holds a Ph.D. in textile chemistry from Donghua University in Shanghai and an MBA from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Subject Matter Experts

AATCC Learning Contacts