Leather technology is a career most suited for those with creative talent
as it is a field which has great role in our fashion conscious world. Career areas in
this industry can be categorized as designing, technical and marketing.
Depending upon the interest and aptitude one can choose the area most
suited. Designing in leather industry involves creating and developing new and up-to-date patterns,
keeping in mind the fashion trends. Technical side deals with manufacture or
production. The manufacturing process of leather products begins in the
tanneries and leather factories, where production managers supervise the
tanning and treatment of animal skins which preserve the leather and make it
soft and flexible.
There is ample employment opportunities in the leather industry within India and
abroad. The supply of trained man power for this industry is far less than the
demand. Hence, a good academic record coupled with hands on training and experience can offer
good career prospects for Leather Technology graduates. On attaining required qualification in
leather technology one can work as technical designers and stylist designers. While Technical designers train themselves in
pattern making, cutting, designing etc. Stylist designers are responsible for
updating the product in fashion and style.
Those passing out from prestigious institutes get managerial positions
in leather firms, export houses and government organisations. Leather
technologists/designers find employment, specifically with the footwear,
leather garments and leather products industries. Designers are also employed
by leather garment production houses and boutiques. Established designers
also hire young designers to work under them. After gaining enough experience,
Leather Technologists can spread their wings and venture out on their
own by starting a unit for manufacturing and marketing leather products
across domestic and international markets. Teaching is another avenue
that can be explored. Leather technologists can work as lectures in universities/institutes.
Leather industry offers attractive growth prospects for people working in the
sector. Leather designing is considered as one career which is
totally based on performance and experience and there is no limit for creative
people. One can later on move from production technologist to quality
control checker, research or technical management sector etc. Prospects are also open for working in departments such as buying, sales or marketing.
Remuneration
Salary package in leather industry are highly dependent upon skills.
Fresh recruits can expect a starting pay package around Rs. 8000-10000 p.m.,
depending upon their qualifications and the size of the organisation.
For freelancers and those self-employed in their own units returns are not fixed.
Those employed in multinational companies can expect more attractive pay
scale.
