Darian Boyd '19: Exploring Textile Testing at UL Solutions

Darian Boyd '19: Exploring Textile Testing at UL Solutions

A Textile Whiz Kid's Exciting Journey: From Wilson College to UL Solutions

Darian Boyd's four-year stint at the Wilson College of Textiles was a rollercoaster ride of experiences that culminated in an amazing career at UL Solutions, a safety science company. From his Senior Design project to his time spent in clubs and organizations, Boyd made the most of his college days.

Currently employed as a project handler, Boyd's role at UL involves dealing with a plethora of products, ranging from textiles to other materials. His work at UL mirrors the wide range of items the company tests to ensure they are safe and environmentally friendly.

Connecting, Learning, and Growing

Boyd was an active member of various college clubs, including the African American Textile Society (AATS) and the Clown Nose Club. According to Boyd, these organizations played a pivotal role in his personal and professional growth. The Clown Nose Club, in particular, pushed him out of his comfort zone, encouraging him to interact with strangers and brighten their day.

Boyd also acquired valuable experience through internships. His internship at Elevate Textiles honed his ability to gather, analyze, and present data professionally – skills he now uses extensively at UL. His internship with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services opened his eyes to the versatility of a textile technology degree, showing him its relevance in non-traditional textile fields.

Innovating Solutions in Senior Design

One of Boyd's most rewarding experiences at the Wilson College was Senior Design, the capstone course for textile technology and textile engineering students. Working in teams, students collaborated with industry sponsors to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. Boyd worked on a project sponsored by the Manufacturing Solutions Center that focused on creating an industrial recycling network for various materials. The teamwork and collaboration this project required made it a truly enriching experience for Boyd.

Creating an Impact at UL

At UL, Boyd often finds himself poring over lab results and working with clients. One of his most memorable experiences was witnessing the Manikin test, where mannequins simulating human bodies were used to assess the protective capabilities of textile fabrics under fire.

The knowledge Boyd gained regarding fiber properties and textile development during his college days helps him understand why certain fabrics behave as they do when tested. Boyd's advice to incoming Wilson College students is simple: network, network, network. Building connections can open doors to opportunities that might have otherwise remained out of reach.

Textile Technology Grads: A Look at Possible Career Paths

Textile technology graduates can tap into a multitude of career options, ranging from technical to creative, managerial, and research-oriented roles within the textile and related industries. Some key career paths include:

• Textile Technologist / Textile Engineer
• Product Development Manager
• Quality Assurance Specialist / Quality Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Technical Textile Engineer
• Textile Designer / Fashion Designer
• Textile Production Manager / Textile Laboratory Technician
• Research and Development Analyst / Textile Research Scientist
• Color Technologist
• Dyeing Manager
• Knit Designer
• Print Designer

Most roles require a bachelor’s degree in textile technology or engineering, with some positions, especially research or senior engineering roles, benefiting from a master's degree or professional engineering licensure. Internships and apprenticeships during study can provide valuable industry experience and make graduates more competitive in the job market.

In conclusion, graduates with a degree in Textile Technology can explore careers in engineering, design, production, management, research, and supply chain roles within the textile and fashion industries, backed by a solid foundation in textile science and practical experience.

1. Darian Boyd, a graduate of the Wilson College of Textiles, embarked on an internship at Elevate Textiles, which honed his data analysis and presentation skills.
2. At UL Solutions, Boyd collaborates with various materials, reflecting the diverse products the company tests to ensure safety and eco-friendliness.
3. During his senior year at Wilson College, Boyd worked on a Senior Design project, which involved creating an industrial recycling network for diverse materials.
4. Boyd's undergraduate studies prepared him for potential careers in engineering, design, production, management, research, and supply chain roles within the textile and fashion industries.
5. Internal communication within the textiles sector is crucial, as seen by Boyd's advice to network extensively during college to open up career opportunities.
6. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services internship demonstrated to Boyd the versatility of a textile technology degree in non-traditional textile fields.
7. Boyd's current role at UL Solutions includes working closely with clients and analyzing lab results, often leading to memorable experiences, such as witnessing the Manikin test.

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