Pedagogy and Professional Development

Enhancing Socio-Emotional Intelligence (SEI) Competencies in FTARE Education: A Systematic Approach for Workforce Readiness

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Abstract

Socio-emotional intelligence (SEI) has become an essential competency for success in fibers, textiles, apparel, retail, and entrepreneurship (FTARE) professions, where collaboration, leadership, and emotional labor are central to workplace effectiveness. Despite its relevance, SEI development remains underrepresented in FTARE curricula, which largely emphasize technical and business knowledge. This conceptual study addresses this gap by proposing a systematic, research-informed framework for embedding SEI competencies into FTARE education. Drawing from existing scholarship on SEI’s role in career preparedness, leadership, and student well-being, the paper advances propositions linking SEI integration to enhanced career readiness, improved student engagement, and strengthened academic–industry collaboration. A multi-phase plan is outlined, including needs assessments, framework development, faculty training, cross-institutional partnerships, and pilot testing. This work establishes a foundation for future empirical research and calls for policy-driven curricular innovation to cultivate a more emotionally intelligent, adaptable, and future-ready FTARE workforce.

Keywords: Socio-Emotional Intelligence, FTARE Education, Workforce Readiness, Curriculum Innovation, Higher Education, Career Preparedness

How to Cite:

Sadachar, A., Manchiraju, S. & Chakraborty, S., (2025) “Enhancing Socio-Emotional Intelligence (SEI) Competencies in FTARE Education: A Systematic Approach for Workforce Readiness”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21671