Earlier this spring, Joseph Altieri, adjunct instructor in Production Management, presented at the 2026 International Symposium on Industry-University-Research Collaborative Innovation, hosted by Zhejiang Sci-Tech University (ZSTU) in Hangzhou, China. The symposium, which brought together international experts, scholars, and industry representatives across textile science, fashion design, material innovation, and digital technology, focused on strengthening collaboration between universities, industry, and research institutions.
Altieri’s presentation at the symposium, titled “Designing Human Infrastructure for Digital Product Creation,” examined why organizations often struggle to realize value from digital tools such as 3D design, artificial intelligence, and advanced product development systems. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience in apparel manufacturing and supply chain operations, he introduced a framework focused on aligning workflows, roles, and production-ready outputs. He also emphasized that digital transformation efforts can often fall short due to gaps in process structure and cross-functional coordination, noting the need to better integrate industry experience with academic training.
Altieri’s participation reflects FIT’s continued engagement in global dialogue around innovation, education, and industry collaboration.