I have heard about textile technology. Can you let me know more about this?

Textile technology is a branch of engineering where technology is used for developing and creating several varieties of fabric, textiles and garments from yarn. It involves the study of fibre science, and students learn how to create and test fibres from both natural and synthetic sources. This branch of engineering involves the study of chemicals and polymers to produce fabric which is durable, safe and economically affordable. Recent innovations in this fast paced industry include medical clothing and micro-climate apparel. At the B. Tech level there is an emphasis on design, product and process development activities. In the final year, students work on projects besides undergoing practical training in industrial establishments. At an undergraduate level, students can choose an area of specialisation, such as apparel design, production, marketing, or textile technology. A student pursuing textile engineering must, in addition to having a strong foundation in physics, chemistry and maths, have analytical skills, possess problem solving abilities and be a team player. Students can seek employment in production or quality control, interior design, process engineering, research and development or in senior technical management.

I’m a 15-year-old girl and my goal is to be an architect. However, my father does not agree as, according to him, it’s not a career for a woman. What do you suggest?

By its close association with construction, architecture has for long been wrongly perceived as a male preserve. Women have done some outstanding work in this field. The list of talented women who have contributed to the field of architecture and design is endless. However, to pursue architecture at university, you would need to study math and physics in high school to develop problem-solving techniques and logic. Proficiency in sketching and drawing will further develop your ability to visualise and conceptualise. Creativity and passion for design are also essential traits to be a successful architect. Job prospects range from being self-employed to working in small- to medium-sized firms to much larger practices that will incorporate other professional areas, such as planning, urban design, construction or project management. Governments also employ architects in their planning departments. Other careers that you can pursue with a degree in architecture would be a landscape architect involved in environmental development or restoration architect responsible for conservation and restoration of heritage buildings.