Interview: Jenna, Garment Technologist

Menswear by Whispering Smith

Jenna works as a Garment Technologist at Whispering Smith a global manufacturer with an office in Manchester.

For more information about the role of a garment technologist click on this link: Garment Technologist.

Here is the interview including some of the questions asked by students.

Q: What is your role within the fashion industry?

A: Product development / garment technologist at a clothing supplier / importer.

Q: What formal education do you have in your subject area?

A: BA in Fashion Design and Technology at MMU

Q: What do you feel was the catalyst in taking this career path?

A: I enjoyed Textiles at school, and chose to study it all the way through to A-level and university. I chose this particular field after completing a university placement in my third year and really enjoyed the hand on approach to the product.

Q: If you weren’t working in fashion what might you be doing instead?

A: I always fancied being a make-up artist for TV / film!!

Q: What do you find enjoyable about your role?

A: Working with a product from design stage to store; close relationship with retailers and suppliers; fast paced; seeing pieces I've worked on in store; every day is different!

Q: How would you suggest someone build up their pattern cutting and production skills?

A: Practise. Take other garments apart to see how they were made. Get a good knowledge of different fabrics. 

 If you have questions about the role of a garment technologist or how you could become one then post them as comments here.