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"Success comes to the underdog who doesn't let sleeping dogs lie...
Workforce Development: Stitching Together A Brighter Future
Empowering Communities through Sewing and Workforce Development
The Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC has reshaped the economic and creative landscape of Southwest Ohio through its bold and visionary Workforce Development Program, Stitching Together Sewn Goods for a Brighter Future. By leveraging the $2 trillion global fashion industry, we are creating new opportunities for skill development, workforce placement, and economic transformation in Dayton and Cincinnati.
(DE-FI) has been a pioneer in sewn goods workforce development, playing a key role in launching Dayton’s only Sewing Workforce Development Program, the Dayton Sewing Collaborative in collaboration with the Goodwill, was a (DE-FI)-driven effort to prepare the region for a resurgence in garment manufacturing and industrial sewing opportunities. Though our work has not always been fully credited, it remains a cornerstone of (DE-FI)’s mission to empower individuals and elevate the community.
One of (DE-FI)’s longest-standing goals has been to bring garment manufacturing to Dayton and the Miami Valley. Garment manufacturing represents a high investment-to-turnover ratio with lower capital intensity, making it an ideal industry to spur economic growth. In 2019, U.S. textile manufacturing alone contributed $18.79 billion in value, employing over 144,000 people across the country.
The demand for skilled workers in this sector is increasing as reshoring efforts gain momentum and domestic production rises to avoid global tariffs. Positions in garment manufacturing offer significant career opportunities, with higher-paying roles like garment manufacturing computer-based professionals earning an average of $67,110 annually and fabric and apparel pattern makers earning $53,800 per year. (DE-FI)’s Workforce Development Program bridges the skills gap by connecting individuals with these opportunities, ensuring fair wages, ethical working conditions, and pathways for professional advancement.
Our program prepares participants to become industrial sewing professionals for both fashion-related and non-fashion-related sewing opportunities, including lifesaving protective gear for companies like Lions and Honeywell. To ensure readiness, participants must meet local industry standards and pass a rigorous certification exam, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in this evolving field.
(DE-FI) has always been a disruptor, and this initiative reflects our commitment to positioning Dayton as a major player in the fashion and textile industries. While cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati have long benefited from fashion giants like Hugo Boss, Macy’s, and L Brands, Dayton’s potential has often been overlooked. With increasing costs of living in major fashion hubs like New York and Los Angeles, the Midwest is emerging as the next frontier for fashion talent and production, and (DE-FI) is ensuring Dayton is ready.
(DE-FI) continues to uplift individuals and communities, combating poverty and creating sustainable career pathways. Our work remains focused on financial independence, professional empowerment, and transforming Southwest Ohio into a hub for the garment and fashion industries.
By reclaiming its rightful role in launching Dayton’s sewing workforce development program, (DE-FI) is ensuring its legacy as a leader in workforce innovation and community impact. Together, we’re stitching a brighter future—one skill, one opportunity, and one community at a time.
Click HERE to Apply For Workforce Development!