“Our industrial sewing program exposes a whole community of Detroiters to a new spectrum of careers.”
–Jen Guarino, President & CEO, Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center
Detroit, MI (October 2024) -When Jen Guarino wraps up her day at the Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), she often encounters a familiar face still immersed in his work in the lab. “Okay, Emery, I’m closing up shop,” she says, spotting Emery Jones, a recent graduate of the Fundamentals of Industrial Sewing and Production (FISP) program. With a passion for transforming fabric scraps into innovative designs, Emery is working on what he hopes will be his own clothing line.
Emery’s journey illustrates the impact of FISP’s mission to empower underserved individuals in Detroit. Through a thoughtfully crafted curriculum, participants like Emery gain essential skills, hands-on experience and on-the-job training in industrial sewing, preparing them for meaningful careers in the field and beyond. The Walters Family Foundation proudly supports this initiative with a two-year grant that sponsors 15 individuals annually in the FISP program.
During the course, students become process-driven sewists in ISAIC's state-of-the-art classroom. From Monday to Thursday, they learn to operate three essential industrial sewing machines. They also learn to work with different textiles, understand technical documents and master the basics of manufacturing principles.
In addition to technical training, students have access to wrap-around services designed to eliminate barriers to success. These services include transportation assistance, food bank support, childcare and other essential resources to facilitate a successful career transition. This holistic approach ensures participants can build sustainable careers and realize their full potential.
As Guarino says, “We have a short list of potential career opportunities in Detroit. This program opens doors for a community of Detroiters eager to enter this industry, who previously had no way to gain experience without pursuing a four-year degree." She adds, “It’s incredibly rewarding to hear Detroiters say things like, ‘I never thought I could study this here. I never thought I could do this in Detroit.’ We hear that a lot.”
The program also offers a pathway to careers in other industries. Many graduates discover that their skills are transferable, finding opportunities in automotive manufacturing or even starting their own businesses. One participant, Ms. G, completed the program, secured a higher-wage job in industrial sewing and reopened her own storefront for African textiles. “Our program gives people an on-ramp to unlimited possibilities,” says Guarino. “It's so much fun to see what they do with it.”
The sense of community and creativity is what makes FISP truly special. Participants are not just learning a trade; they’re forming connections, sharing ideas, and inspiring each other to pursue their dreams. They are also invited back to engage with the community. A high percentage of ISAIC graduates remain involved after graduation. “They become part of a village that is much larger than people realize,” says Guarino. The ripple effect is significant.”