Zoe Newman
- Position: Knitting Lab Manager
- Department: Zeis Textiles Extension
- Hometown: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
What was your path to this position?
I went to NC State for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I earned a B.S. in fashion and textile design and gained a strong interest in knitting during my time as a student. I decided to do the Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Program and pursue my Master of Science in textiles, where my work focused on the knittability of hemp. I continued to complete my Ph.D. in research related to knitting as well.
I graduated and went to Greensboro, North Carolina, to work for Stoll by Karl Mayer North America where I was a knit product developer working with customers to develop products and guide them through the design process. I also taught programming and machine handling courses on the Stoll machines. When the opportunity to apply for the knitting lab manager position came up, I could not ignore it!
Why were you interested in this position / in working at the Wilson College?
When I heard the university was looking for a knitting lab manager, I felt it was the perfect fit for me. I was familiar with working on the machines as a student throughout my education, and I enjoy working with others to help them achieve their goals.
What are your duties on a day-to-day basis?
I am responsible for keeping all machines running well for industry, academic and governmental projects. I also assist with knit product development and design. I work with classes to knit items for students, and I teach industry members about knitting through Textile Fundamentals courses with the Zeis Textiles Extension. I also manage and train students who work in the lab using machinery and software.
What is your favorite part of your job and/or working at the Wilson College of Textiles?
I thoroughly enjoy being busy on a daily basis. Every day presents a new challenge, whether it be a mechanical issue, yarn problem, programming error, or correspondence with a customer. I feel I am able to challenge myself every day while helping students, industry members and North Carolina as a whole.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my Australian Labradoodle, Bear, and my fiance. We are getting married soon, so I have spent most of my free time planning our wedding. Otherwise, I enjoy cooking, baking, doing CrossFit and horseback riding.
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