Geoysynthetics August/September 2023 - 8

UPDATE
ATA restructures several divisions,
launches redesigned website
A
fter much thought and discussion with its board of directors, division advisory board leadership
and other stakeholders, the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) has restructured some
of its divisions to create greater member engagement, improve staff and volunteer efficiency, and
allow for a focus on broader initiatives that affect more of its members.
These structural changes will allow ATA to become a nimbler and more efficient association,
with the constant goal of serving and supporting the interests of its diverse membership. More than
ever, ATA's membership shares opportunities and challenges across multiple markets. On average,
the association serves six different market segments, and their needs and expectations are evolving.
Over the last few years, the association has worked to enhance member value by adding new
member benefits such as the Textile Industry Retirement Plan, ATA Health and Benefit Insurance,
ATA Business Insurance, electronic payment processing, various new educational options, new
shipping/freight discounts and many other ways members can save money.
On June 1, 2023, the following changes went into effect:
Fabric Graphics Association and Tarp Association disbanded, and members not already affiliU.S.
INDUSTRIAL AND
NARROW FABRICS
INSTITUTE
ated with other divisions were onboarded to other areas of the association where ATA can provide
significant value to member companies.
Equipment Division disbanded and member companies were given the opportunity to engage
directly with any/all divisions where they do business or would like to do business.
United States Industrial Fabrics Institute (USIFI) and Narrow Fabrics Institute (NFI) merged
to form USINFI. The two divisions have long shared common issues and will now operate as one
entity to lobby on behalf of the Berry Amendment, tariffs and other important initiatives.
Makers Division became a part of a new Workforce Development Council. This change will
serve to engage more members in working together on the common industry challenge of bringing
new workers into the textiles industry, while keeping the focus on the importance of sewing
careers and other relevant workforce-related issues.
Emerging Technologies Division, which changed its name at the same time the Industrial
Fabrics Association International (IFAI) rebranded to Advanced Textiles Association, became
Emerging Technologies Council and continues its effort to prioritize the cultivation of knowledge
and resource for emerging technology regardless of market.
Advanced Textiles Association Launches Redesigned Website
The ATA also recently launched a newly redesigned website that went live on April 18, 2023, giving
visitors a more dynamic user experience. In addition to providing an intuitive and inviting website
layout, ATA has increased the overall speed and responsiveness of networking and resources.
" We are excited to launch the newly redesigned website as part of ATA's strategic initiative to
reach and provide value to a broader audience, as well as a better connection for members to the
resources they need, " says Steve Schiffman, president and CEO of ATA. " The website is the most
likely way that industry professionals will first connect or interact with the association. "
ATA's newly redesigned website, Textiles.org, is a dynamic portal that provides our industry with
an immediate connection to member programs, peers, education, sourcing resources and much
more. The site was developed in the most advanced and secure web platform available to ensure
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Geosynthetics | August September 2023
http://www.Textiles.org
Geoysynthetics August/September 2023

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