The five technical specialists have received their awards following three to four years of online study, where exams are taken remotely under strict conditions. A cohort of up-and-coming textile coloration professionals has become the first to complete the revised ASDC (Associateship of the Society of Dyers and Colourists) degree-equivalent qualification.
They are Wayne Brown of Johnsons of Elgin near Inverness, Alistair Little and James Blackburn of FTS Dyers in Langholm, Scottish borders, Edward Naylor of Bulmer and Lumb in Bradford, West Yorkshire, and Benjamin Poole of David Nieper in Alfreton, Derbyshire. The ‘class of 2021’ is the first to have studied within a revised module structure, featuring Dyeing Theory and Textile Printing for the first time, and under the invigilation of a new external examiner, Prof Martin Bide.
Andrew Filarowski, technical director of the SDC, commented: “It is vital to the industry that talented professionals are given the correct scientific foundation that will allow them to continue to innovate and advance the sector. Without this knowledge being provided to up-and-coming technicians, vital skills and techniques will be lost forever. The updated ASDC course reflects the modern era that we live in and includes content on the latest technology and trends – allowing our students to progress and provide untold value to their employers.”
Places are still available to start ASDC this October or in autumn 2022, with discounted fees and some bursaries available.
