The industry, for instance, must have managers who know not only textile manufacturing but also textile economics. It must have managers and professionals who know how to do business planning and how to stimulate creative thinking. This demand for a new kind of manager and professional has prompted the Textiles Human Resources Council to launch a new kind of textile education program. In 1996 and 1997, industry investment reached record levels. Larger firms able to take advantage of economies of scale, are able to compete effectively on the world market, while small to medium sized firms offer shorter production runs and the flexibility and adaptability required to meet the demands of a smaller domestic market and niche markets internationally.
Productivity growth continues to outpace the average for all Canadian manufacturing.
In 1996, the textile industry received the Climate Change Challenge Award from the federal Natural Resources Minister in recognition of its improvements in energy efficiency. As with progressive and efficient firms everywhere, many textile companies have already implemented,or are beginning to implement, team-based manufacturing. Today, the products of the textile industry are used by over 150 other Canadian industries, including apparel, home furnishings, transportation, health, environmental protection, mining, construction, fishing, and forest products. A young science, engineering or technology graduate, upon successful completion of the TMIP, will have an excellent opportunity of finding stimulating, satisfying and well-paying employment in a competitive and dynamic industry. The THRC offers a variety of services and operates numerous programs, all intended to advance the skills of the industry's work force.