Federal and Defense Textile Summit

Time: Starting promptly at 1300 and running to 1415

Address: Parkdale Mills, 325 Wilcox Avenue, Gaffney, SC

About this tour: At Parkdale's Gaffney facility, tour guests will have the opportunity to see the entirety of the yarn manufacturing process. The tour will begin with observing how cotton bales are unloaded and organized, how the cotton bales are opened and cleaned, and how the cotton fibers are prepared for the yarn spinning process. Guests will then observe how cotton fiber is spun into yarn and packaged to send out to customers. In addition, the state-of-the-art automation being used in our processes will be discussed. Because of noise levels inside the manufacturing areas, ear plugs are required (they will be provided). Closed toe shoes and masks will also be required.

COVID protocols (subject to change): Masking on this tour is not required.  However; closed-toe shoes are requested.  Ear plugs will be provided.

• Time: Starting promptly at 1530 and running to 1645
• Address: Textile Technology Center at Gaston College, 7720 Wilkinson Blvd, Belmont, NC
• About this tour: Peak behind the scenes of research and development in the textile industry as you make your way through the Center.  The TTC is home to fiber extrusion, yarn spinning, dyeing and weaving product development labs as well as analytical chemistry, microscopy and physical testing labs.
• COVID protocols: face masks are required on this tour
• Closed-toed shoes are required on this tour.