Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) is proud to announce the conclusion of the 2022 Advanced Functional Fabric (AFF) Product Development Challenge with the Greater Lawrence Technical School (GLTS). Recent material and manufacturing breakthroughs have enabled the design and production of advanced functional fabrics that see, hear, sense, communicate, and monitor health. However, manufacturing fabrics with advanced capabilities requires a workforce with new skill sets.
Launched in 2018, the AFF program aims to develop the next generation of multi-skilled workers by exposing students to a myriad of technical skills and equipment in the context of manufacturing advanced functional fabrics. High school students from GLTS have completed the four-part hands-on AFF program during which they ideate and prototype novel textile products that address specific challenges. At the conclusion of the program, students get to present their prototypes to their community and peers.
“This year’s AFF program was unique because the students were challenged with real-world problem – to come up with smart fabric solutions that could provide support to citizens and aid workers impacted by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine,” said AFFOA CEO, Sasha Stolyarov. “It was inspiring to see how each student connected with the problem statement in their own personal way, and developed concept solutions that drew upon their interest in electronics and fabrics motivated by a humanitarian assistance need,” he added.