Last month, two of ISAIC’s team members attended the 2026 National Gathering hosted by Mechanism, centered around the theme, “Imagining the Future of Local Production.”

The gathering brought together makers, manufacturers, policymakers, educators, artists, faith organizations, community leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore what’s possible when production is rooted in community, care, and shared stewardship.

The Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), has joined the United Nations Fashion and Lifestyle Network, a global platform fostering collaboration, innovation, and transparency across the fashion and lifestyle industries. 

PCIAW® (The Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide) has welcomed ISAIC as a new member, marking an exciting step forward in advancing innovation, sustainability, and upskilling across the global industry.

ISAIC’s VP of Manufacturing and Innovation, Lionel Vargas Cruz, recently attended a workshop focused on developing a roadmap for automation in U.S. textile manufacturing.

ISAIC President & CEO Jennifer Guarino recently spoke on a panel at the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) Executive Summit.

The two-day, in-person event brought together senior-level executives from retail, apparel, footwear, and fashion accessory brands from across the U.S. and around the globe for thoughtful dialogue on the forces shaping the industry.

ISAIC President + CEO Jennifer Guarino recently brought together an incredible group of industry leaders in London for a closed-door working session titled “The Future of Supply Chain: Scaling Regenerative, Human-Centered Manufacturing.”

ISAIC’s Director of Programming, Ellie Schneider, recently spoke at the 2026 Textile Recovery Summit in San Diego, joining leaders from across the textile ecosystem to discuss the critical role of repair in advancing circularity.

ISAIC's President and CEO, Jennifer Guarino had the opportunity to be a guest on the What They Th!ink podcast episode--Overproduction in Apparel: The Solution is in our Control! 

In this discussion, Jennifer talked with Cary Sherburne about the problem of the current fashion business model which is rife with overproduction. Reducing overproduction is within the control of brands if only they have the "Confidence To Transform"—and in doing so, can improve profits and customer loyalty!

ISAIC CEO Jennifer Guarino sits down with two leaders shaping the future of fashion in Detroit and beyond to discuss the overconsumption addiction.

From defining what sustainability really means, to emerging trends, circular economy practices, and the moments that inspired their journeys, this conversation is full of insight, honesty, and actionable inspiration.

ISAIC CEO Jen Guarino and ISAIC Board CEO—and Because Capital Founder—Christian Birka took the stage at the Sourcing Journal Sustainability Summit in Los Angeles for an honest, inspiring discussion on the need for transformative business models that systematically reduce gross overproduction.

On September 22, 2025, ISAIC’s CEO, President, and Co-Founder Jen Guarino convened leaders in fashion, manufacturing, investment, and innovation for a closed-door session in New York. The conversation tackled a critical question: why do sustainable solutions stall in pilot phase, and what’s needed to achieve scale?

Looking ahead, Kai envisions a future where ISAIC continues to empower individuals to be more self-sufficient, transforming the fashion industry in Detroit and beyond. Her three-word description of ISAIC—efficient, supportive, and advanced—captures the essence of the program that played a pivotal role in her journey. 

As Shelly Xu prepares to take the stage at the ISAIC Honors event, she carries with her a message of hope, innovation, and unwavering dedication to a cause greater than herself. Her recognition as Innovator of the Year serves as a testament to her remarkable journey and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. 

Approaching the ISAIC Honors Event, Dana Davis's journey unfolds as a narrative of resilience, creativity, and a profound dedication to fashion's transformative potential. The event is not just a celebration of an award; it is a spotlight on the dynamic synergy between passion and sustainability, highlighted by Dana's remarkable journey in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion. 

In Zar's words, "It is my honor to be considered for the Manufacturer of the Year award." For him, this accolade represents more than personal recognition—it is a call to highlight the viability of domestic production.