The University of Rhode Island (URI) is set to pioneer its inaugural “Future Textiles Forum” on Monday, April 22, showcasing the evolution and potential of the state’s textile sector. Scheduled from 9 to 10:45 a.m. at Lippitt Hall in Kingston, the forum will coincide with Earth Day celebrations at URI.
An array of stakeholders will convene, including URI students and faculty from diverse disciplines such as textiles and engineering, alongside members of the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN) and other industry partners. Notable attendees include representatives from U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse’s office, underlining the event’s significance.
Distinguished URI faculty deeply entrenched in textile research will offer profound insights into their ongoing endeavors and the transformative prospects for Rhode Island’s textile landscape. Complementing their expertise, industry leaders including Rob Torgerson from Kestrel Innovative Fabrics, Jim Owens of Nautilus Defense, and Michael Woody, chairman of the state’s Textile Innovation Network, will provide invaluable perspectives.
Furthermore, the forum will spotlight student research teams as they present rapid-fire presentations on their investigations into the circular economies of textiles and related products. This engagement underscores URI’s commitment to fostering innovative approaches among its student body.
A notable highlight of the event will be the establishment and inauguration of the Rhode Island Future Textile Council. Set to convene biannually at URI, the council will serve as a vital nexus for discussing current industry needs and trends, guiding curriculum development, securing research grants, and fostering collaborative initiatives to fortify Rhode Island’s textile sector for future generations.
Additionally, the forum will showcase the exemplary work of honors students from HPR 412 Circular Economies, with support from the university’s HPR 124 Welcome to Planet Honors class, emphasizing URI’s multifaceted approach to advancing sustainable practices within the textile domain.
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