Fashion Design: Industrial Tailor, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science Degree: (FAD - AAS)

About the Program

The Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Tailor prepares students for careers in garment construction, apparel production, and custom tailoring across diverse sectors of the fashion and textile industries. This hands-on, technique-driven program emphasizes industrial sewing machine operation, garment fitting, pattern modifications, alterations, and textile handling using industry-standard tools and methods. Students will gain practical experience in tailoring for ready-to-wear, uniforms, performance wear, costume design, and custom-fit garments. Coursework is supported by experiential learning in lab environments simulating professional production settings. The program also integrates foundational knowledge in fashion industry standards, materials sourcing, production workflow, and quality control. Graduates are equipped to work as industrial tailors, alterations specialists, production sewists, or costume technicians, or to start their own tailoring businesses. This degree also complements other pathways in fashion design and merchandising by offering a specialized technical route focused on craftsmanship and precision garment construction.

This Program Offers:

• Associate of Applied Science: 62 credit hours
• College Certificate: 40 credit hours
• Certificate of Achievement: 11 credit hours

Program Goals

• Develop Technical Proficiency: Equip students with advanced skills in garment construction, sewing techniques, pattern modification, and alterations using industrial machinery
• Promote Industry Standards and Quality Control: Train students in professional finishing techniques, garment evaluation, and inspection procedures aligned with industry expectations
• Enhance Workplace Readiness: Prepare students for employment in manufacturing, custom tailoring, costume production, and entrepreneurial garment services through hands-on training and real-world projects
• Encourage Entrepreneurial Thinking: Foster an understanding of small business operations, pricing, customer service, and branding for those pursuing self-employment or freelance tailoring
• Support Cross-Industry Collaboration: Enable students to integrate their tailoring expertise with related fields such as fashion design, merchandising, theater, and product development

Program Outcomes

• Operate Industrial Sewing Equipment: Safely and effectively use a variety of industrial sewing machines and tools, including sergers, blind hemmers, and cover stitch machines
• Construct Garments to Specification: Assemble garments using industry-standard techniques and follow technical specs, patterns, and production guidelines
• Perform Advanced Alterations and Fittings: Execute custom alterations, tailoring, and garment adjustments based on client or project needs
• Apply Textile Knowledge in Garment Production: Identify fabric properties and appropriate handling methods to ensure quality and durability in finished products
• Collaborate in a Production Environment: Work effectively within a team, meet deadlines, and manage workflows in a simulated or actual apparel production setting
• Demonstrate Quality Assurance and Professional Finishing: Inspect garments for defects, ensure construction meets quality standards, and execute professional-level garment finishing
• Communicate Effectively with Clients and Teams: Interpret client needs, provide garment consultations, and present work professionally both verbally and in writing
• Apply Business and Pricing Strategies: Understand costing, pricing, and basic business models relevant to tailoring services and small garment businesses

Admission Requirements

Students are required to do the following:

• Be 18 years of age or older (unless part of dual enrollment) or must have completed high school or hold a General Education Development (GED) Certificate
• Fulfil all WCCCD admission requirements
• Declare intent to enter the program on WCCCD Admission Application or in the Student Services Office
• Complete an Educational Development Plan (Plan of Work), outlining the student’s plan for program completion
• Fulfill course placement requirements based on the ACCUPLACER assessment