Pedagogy and Professional Development

Strengthening Career Prospects Through Entrepreneurship Education: A Study of Apparel Program Graduates 

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Abstract

This qualitative study examines how apparel program-specific entrepreneurship education (EE) enhances the employability of graduates in the evolving U.S. apparel industry. Despite declining domestic employment, the industry increasingly demands professionals with innovation, technical, and business competencies. Guided by human capital theory, this study examines how EE develops the specific human capital of apparel graduates. Fourteen semi-structured interviews with alumni from a Midwest public university were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal two primary themes: development of key competencies and strong employment outcomes. Participants reported gaining adaptability, problem-solving, leadership, communication, and business acumen through experiential, industry-specific EE. These skills improved decision-making, interview performance, and job attainment. Results suggest apparel programs should prioritize experiential, tailored entrepreneurship education to better prepare graduates for industry demands. 

Keywords: Entrepreneurship Education, Career Readiness, Intrapreneurship, Apparel Industry, Fashion Industry, Retail Industry

How to Cite:

Worrall, E. M. & Linda, N. S., (2025) “Strengthening Career Prospects Through Entrepreneurship Education: A Study of Apparel Program Graduates ”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21995