Read the story of Dr Gopika Rajan, a wearable technologist and material scientist at KnitRegen.

Young Textile Technician Story

Aaron-Wootten Farrell aged 26, an Apprentice Tuner at Johnstons of Elgin undertook a technician’s training course specialising in the Dornier Rapier Weaving Machine P1 with Dialog Panel ErgoWeave, which is part of the weaving process with support from UKFT’s Young Textile Technician Fund.

Aaron gained full knowledge of how to operate the weaving Dornier machinery effectively, prepare for filling insertion and is confident at using the innovative FT control system technology. Fortunately, he’s able to monitor and fix any technical issues that may come along with using this kind of machinery. Aaron added:

“The course allowed me to work with one of the industry’s most luxurious fabric manufacturers ‘Johnstons of Elgin’ and offered me the ability to solve technical issues and learn to operate the impressive Dornier Rapier machine, which is hugely important for the progression of my career.”

The Johnstons of Elgin team said:

“Traditional skills passed down through generations are a large part of what sets us apart from other textile manufacturers, and those time-honoured techniques result in our exquisite craftsmanship.”

The Young Textile Technician Fund will cover 50% of the costs of in-depth training for young textile technicians, thanks to the generous support of The Worshipful Company of Weavers, The Worshipful Company of Clothworkers and The Worshipful Company of Drapers.

The Young Textile Technician Fund is now open to businesses applying to train textile technicians under the age of 35. To find out more, email paula.mcilwraith@ukft.org

Want to learn more about the Young Textile Technician Fund? Click on the link below:

YOUNG TEXTILE TECHNICIAN FUND

Johnstons of Elgin is a UKFT Member. Click on the link below to learn more about the UKFT membership:

JOIN UKFT