The number of jobs in the U.S. clothing industry has gone down because most of the clothes sold here are made in other countries. In order to compete, U.S. clothing makers, especially in California, have cut costs to keep up with the demand for cheaper clothes. U.S. manufacturers have lowered costs by using assembly plants in other countries. This lowers employer wage costs but reduces employment in this country. As a result, job growth for Sewing Machine Operators will be limited.
Some employers prefer persons who have experience or training on power sewing machines.
Training is offered at many community adult schools, regional occupational centers, or trade schools. Sewing Machine Operators are usually trained on the job under the supervision of a foreperson or an experienced worker. A beginner may be assigned to work automatic machines to develop the right moves and timing. The length of time required to achieve a good speed and a decent quality of production depends on individual ability. Advancement Operators who know all the sections and have mastered the skill of sewing the whole article of clothing may become sample makers, instructors, or forepersons.