The Textile, Clothing, Leather, and Footwear (TCLF) industries are undergoing a significant transformation driven by digitalization and sustainability. To address these challenges, it is essential to have skilled professionals prepared for the future. With this goal in mind, the partners of the European project METASKILLS4TCLF have launched an innovative campaign to attract new talent to these industries.
The campaign started with a video shared on the project's and its partners' social media channels and will be intensified with various initiatives, including themed sessions in schools, industry open days with visits to TCLF companies, contests, workshops, testimonials, awareness sessions, and even summer courses for young people. These activities will take place in several European countries where the project is being implemented, providing participants with a comprehensive view of opportunities in the sector.
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METASKILLS4TCLF at MICAM Milano 2025
The project was present at MICAM Milano 2025, one of the most relevant events in the footwear sector, held from February 23 to 25. At the booth of the Italian partner Politecnico Calzaturiero, visitors had the opportunity to learn about METASKILLS4TCLF’s initiatives and how it is contributing to skills development in the TCLF industry. Around 3,000 students got to know the project and had the chance to test the first VR content using immersive glasses. The event was an excellent opportunity to interact with experts, exchange knowledge, and explore trends shaping the future of fashion.
Participation at MOD'UNICA
METASKILLS4TCLF was also featured at MOD'UNICA, held at Exponor on February 26 and 27, 2025. During the event, the Portuguese partner CITEVE hosted a lecture on the essential skills for the sector's evolution, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. The presence of students reinforced the importance of education and continuous training to ensure a more sustainable and dynamic future for fashion.
MOD'UNICA’s main goal was to strengthen the collective identity of the textile and clothing industry in Portugal, promoting networking among companies and creating new business opportunities. METASKILLS4TCLF’s participation in this event solidified its fundamental role in modernizing the sector and empowering new talent.
Open Days: Vocational School Students Visit AMF Shoes and Kyaia Factories in Portugal
As part of the METASKILLS4TCLF campaign, students from the Felgueiras Vocational School participated in industry open days, visiting the AMF Shoes and Kyaia factories in Portugal. These visits provided students with a unique opportunity to explore the production processes, technological innovations, and career opportunities within the footwear industry. By engaging directly with professionals and experiencing real-world industrial environments, the students gained valuable insights into the sector's digital and sustainable transformation.

With these initiatives, METASKILLS4TCLF reaffirms its commitment to preparing professionals for future challenges, ensuring that the TCLF industry remains competitive and innovative at the European level.
Through innovative initiatives and the development of sustainable and digitally prepared education systems, METASKILLS4TCLF is positioning itself as a milestone in the transformation of Europe’s TCLF sector.