Leather Technology

Leather is one of the first manufactured material, and the quality of leather has steadily increased in the past 2500 years. Leather is turned into a wide variety of articles – footwear, clothing, bookbinding, gloves, saddles, harness, belts, wallets, luggage, bags, gas meter diaphragms, driving belts, gaskets, hydraulic seals used in aircraft, rockets and underwater craft, upholstery including automobiles, sports goods and many others

The fastest emerging lucrative career option in recent times is Leather Technology. Until a few years ago, those who happened to be in the industry were there through experience rather than through any formal training. But now, scores of institutes are offering certificate as well as diploma courses in designing as well as production, adding a much needed professionalism to this industry.

The leather industry world over is growing by leaps and bounds. One must be wondering why are countries like India, Pakistan and other African countries exporting so much of leather to western countries. Apparently because leatherwear still enjoys a great demand and nowadays the International and the domestic market is developing and consuming the offerings of this industry.

To produce high quality leather, Technologists must understand the nature of the materials used, the way in which they react, the means of controlling this reactivity, and the methods of testing and analysing the finished product.

To many, it would also be a surprise to know that the Leather industry is one of the largest export earner in some of the Asian countries. One can only imagine what shape this industry takes on further maturing.

Courses in Leather technology range from those designed for Leather professionals to develop potential in the principles and practice of leather technology to courses for a graduate in a physical science or similar discipline who has recently entered or wishes to enter the leather production or allied industries.

• Certificate in Leather Technology
• Leathersellers Certificate in Leather Studies
• BSc (Hons) Materials Technology(Leather)
• MSc Leather Technology
• PhD/ MPhil Leather Technology

Question remains… How should one go about saving the environment as well as opting for leather technology career at the same time?