A morning designed to inspire and connect women in the textiles industry.
Attend and drop your business card in the jar for a chance to win a FREE registration to the Women in Textiles Summit 2026!
SCHEDULE:
9:30 am: Coffee & Conversations
Facilitated by Rachal McCarthy, NTI Global
Connect, chat, and caffeinate during this guided networking session led by Rachal McCarthy.
10 am: Panel Discussion: Next in Textiles—The Future is Female
Moderator: Apurba Banerjee, Standard Textile
Panelists: Lindsey Hynek, Lectra; Donielle Lorelli, National Industries for the Blind; Bailey Smith, Zeis Textiles Extension, NC State University's Wilson College of Textiles
Discover how these women found their way into the textile industry and the twists and turns they’ve experienced along the way. This panel will explore their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the innovations shaping their work today, offering insights and inspiration for the next generation preparing to enter the ever-evolving world of textiles.
11 am: From Technical Expert to Industry Leader: How to Build Your Influence and Lead with Your Expertise
Speaker: Xochil Herrera Scheer, The Chicago Pattern Maker
Your expertise is a superpower, and it’s time to lead with it. In this session, we’ll explore how to leverage your technical skills to build influence and trust. Your unique position and specialized knowledge can influence a brand’s design, production, and profitability. You’ll learn how to communicate your ideas with clarity and build trust with your team, industry colleagues, and non-technical stakeholders—from clients to CEOs. Lean into your unique niche to build a lasting legacy, while finding ways to mentor and champion other women to strengthen our industry, build community, and advance your career.