Good Career Prospects In Leather Technology
The Indian leather industry which is the fourth largest export industry in the world, is growing by leaps and bounds. India not only exports leather goods and footwear to western countries, but leather is also consumed in large quantities by the domestic market. It is one of the largest foreign exchange earners for the country. With more and more multinationals coming to India, this industry is poised to become a hi-tech one. Leather has become part and parcel of modern accessories, in possession of almost all sections of people. Everybody uses leather in some form or the other and it is always in demand for fashion, sport and comfort. The largest share of the industry is still footwear, despite growing competition from materials like synthetics and fabric. Besides footwear, Leatherwear constitutes a variety of products ranging from accessories like belts, luggage and bags, jackets, gloves, purses and caps to toys, upholstery, baggage, musical instruments, garment tags, gift items etc. A career in Leather technology is a lucrative option these days. Until a few years ago, those who happened to be in the industry came up through experience rather than through any formal training. But now with this industry advancing and developing both technologically and professionally, it calls for qualified professionals to cater to the needs and requirements of the people.
Eligibility Criteria
Courses in leather designing are offered at various levels of study. The eligibility criteria differ from the kind of course one wants to opt for. For pursuing B.Sc and B.tech in Leather designing/technology, a student must clear class 10+2 or equivalent with PCM. To get admission in B.Tech/B.E in Leather Technology one must clear IIT JEE for entry into IITs, NITs and other government as well as private institutes. Apart from that, there are also various state entrance Exams which are held for admission to colleges in that respective state. B.Tech is required for pursuing M.Tech in leather technology. There are also diploma and certificate courses. These courses would further enhance the job prospects -in the fast-developing leather as well as fashion technology industry.
Job Prospects
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. 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 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.
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
Institutes
* Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai, 044-24910897
* Government College of Engineering and Leather Technology, Kolkata, 033-23356977
* Harcourt Butler Technical University, Kanpur, 0512-2534001
* Anna University, Chennai , 044-22352312
* Muzaffarpur Institute of Technology, Muzaffarpur, 0612-2262442
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