Wilson College of Textiles

A group of people monitors a Dynamic PyroMan test in a TPACC laboratory. One person is seated at a computer workstation with data on the screen, Roger Barker and others stand nearby. A large blaze is visible through a window, contained in a separate room.

Nov 22, 2024

TPACC featured on PBS NOVA’s Building Stuff series

Dynamic PyroMan and researchers at the Wilson College of Textiles are the stars of the newest episode of PBS NOVA. Producers with the Building Stuff series paid a visit to the Wilson College’s Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) to learn about the science behind firefighter turnout suits. They also spoke with TPACC’s researchers to…

Bailey Knight (left) and Andrew West (right) stand in the Prototype Lab, discussing designs printed onto a tote bag. Bailey points at the fabric laid out on a large cutting table, which features several tote bags with colorful prints. Various sewing and cutting machines are in the background.

Aug 29, 2024

Innovative flex factory to serve students, industry partners under one roof

Slated for construction in early 2025, this state-of-the-art facility will combine the Wilson College of Textiles Prototype Lab and the Senior Design Lab in one space.

Inside a testing lab, a human-sized manikin moves inside flames.

Jun 13, 2024

Fanning the flames of textile science

In its 30th year, the Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) celebrates innovations that have defined textile science.

Mushfika Mica adjusts the female sweating manikin.

Jun 12, 2024

New equipment will help TPACC researchers test military, fire fighting gear for women who serve

The Wilson College of Textiles’ new testing manikin should reduce gender-based discrepancies in the safety and comfort of critical gear.

Ericka Ford (right) and another person, each in white lab coats, operate a machine with switches that spins a fiber.

Apr 23, 2024

TECS faculty member’s research, mentorship earns her university honors

Associate Professor Ericka Ford is now a 2023-24 University Faculty Scholar.

In a lab wearing a lab coat, gloves and goggles, Januka Budhathoki-Uprety (right) explains a concept to Ashley Lamb and Hannah Dewey.

Apr 23, 2024

TECS faculty member receives 2024 Outstanding Teacher Award

Assistant Professor Januka Budhathoki-Uprety credits her recognition with her dedication to students, prowess at explaining complex topics.

Apr 22, 2024

NC State researchers use machine learning to create a fabric-based touch sensor

A new study from NC State University combines three-dimensional embroidery techniques with machine learning to create a fabric-based sensor that can control electronic devices through touch. As the field of wearable electronics gains more interest and new functions are added to clothing, an embroidery-based sensor or “button” capable of controlling those functions becomes increasingly important. Integrated…

Nelson Vinueza adjusts a mass spectometry machine.

Apr 16, 2024

Using dyes to research degenerative diseases

Nelson Vinueza, associate professor at NC State University, analyzes dyes to uncover valuable findings in health, forensics and sustainability.

Dynamic PyroMan on fire in the Textile Protection and Comfort Center.

Mar 20, 2024

TPACC researchers unveil “game-changing” technology to test firefighter thermal wear

“Dynamic PyroMan” improves upon NC State’s 30-year-old manikin, providing a window into how thermal wear performs in flames.