William Halligan ’13, ’15, a Flyknit Engineer II at Nike, Joins the Dean’s Young Alumni Leadership Council

William Halligan’s career journey embodies his passion for sustainability, from the Wilson College of Textiles classrooms to the innovation hub of Nike’s world headquarters.

Halligan honed his expertise in textiles and sustainability while working as a graduate research assistant at the Nonwovens Institute and a lab assistant in the Wilson College’s Springs Weaving Lab. He felt thoroughly encouraged along the way by his faculty advisors and the labs’ dedicated staff members.

“Working in the labs brought me some of the best memories during my time at NC State,” says Halligan. “I learned in-depth fabric formation, chemical and raw material sourcing, yarn and fabric analysis, and product development. Creating design of experiments (DOE) and project management have proven to be essential tools that I use every day in my career.”

After graduating in 2015 with his master’s degree in textile engineering, he accepted a position as an associate Flyknit product engineer at Nike’s world headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. 

One of William’s favorite projects thus far at Nike has been the Pegasus Turbo Next Nature running shoe, which utilizes recycled and solution-dyed Flyknit yarns.

“It showcases Flyknit doing what it does best,” he explains. “At Nike, we are pushing our sustainability initiatives without compromising performance.” 

Halligan has chosen to pay forward that support by serving on the Dean’s Young Alumni Leadership Council, where he was named a new member. This volunteer position will allow him to provide leadership and guidance to Dean David Hinks and the North Carolina Textile Foundation, specifically regarding alumni engagement and fundraising. 

Learn more about Halligan’s career journey by reading his Q&A below.

Degree B.S. Textile Technology, 2013; M.S. Textile Engineering, 2015
Job Title Flyknit Engineer II, Nike
Current City Portland, Oregon
Hometown Pinehurst, North Carolina

What is your fondest memory of being at NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles?

I absolutely enjoyed working in the Springs Weaving Lab and the Knitting Lab here on campus. Projects in the labs helped me understand what a career in product development would look like.

Who influenced you most during your time at the Wilson College of Textiles?

Two individuals stand out: Philip Dail, the college’s former director of advising and admissions, and Professor Emeritus Jon Rust.

“P Dail” got me on track in the Wilson College as a freshman and helped me understand how to adapt to college life, understand the many programs the Wilson College offers, and how to put myself on the path to graduation. Dr. Rust took an interest in me while advising my group in our Senior Design capstone, and he helped me tremendously in networking. Ultimately, his support led to my decision to attend graduate school and helped me to secure the opportunity to work as a research assistant at the Nonwovens Institute.

How did your education at the Wilson College of Textiles prepare you for what you are doing today?

I learned about in-depth fabric formation, from selecting chemicals and raw materials to creating yarns and fabrics. I also learned about fabric characterization, creating design of experiments (DOE), and project management. All of these are core competencies that I use within my current role at Nike, creating Flyknit sustainable footwear.

What activities were you involved in as an NC State student and how did they impact your experience?

At NC State, I worked for Campus Recreation as a challenge course facilitator and as a lab assistant in the Springs Weaving Lab. I also enjoyed time in Greek life and the Sailing Club. Each of these experiences provided invaluable networking opportunities and a strong sense of community.

In what ways are you currently involved with the Wilson College of Textiles and NC State?

I am proud to serve as a mentor within the Blend Mentorship Program. Also, I’ve participated in the college’s town halls and virtual community events. This fall, I’m looking forward to traveling back to Raleigh to participate in the college’s Textile Bowl Weekend events. 

To connect with Halligan on LinkedIn, you can view his profile here.