For Dirk Vantyghem, Director General at EURATEX, this change begins with reaching out to a younger audience, showcasing the industry's potential, not only in creativity but also in innovation and technology.
Attracting young people to the textile industry involves more than just tapping into their design and creative talents. It calls for an infusion of fresh perspectives in engineering and research, particularly in areas like new fiber technology and recyclability. The youth have the vision and innovation skills that the industry needs to tackle these frontier challenges.
Overcoming the communication gap
A significant aspect of this transition lies in effective communication. Vantyghem suggests that the industry must focus on better communication strategies to convey what textiles today truly encompass. Whether through marketing campaigns or informative outreach, it's vital to articulate the dynamic and evolving nature of textiles. Such initiatives could demystify the industry and present it as a robust sector with vast opportunities.
Meeting the challenges
The call to action isn't merely about marketing. It is about tackling pressing issues such as sustainability and digital transformation. The industry needs individuals passionate about solving these challenges. With the right messaging, people will naturally gravitate towards contributing to the solutions, positioning the textile industry as a leader in sustainable innovation.
Dirk Vantyghem’s insights provide a roadmap for this transformation, urging us to redefine what textiles mean in today's world and harness the power of the new generation in shaping the industry's future.
