Los Angeles-based Fashion Business Inc., with assistance from the U.S. Department of Labor, has launched a new program aimed at training a more computer-literate apparel industry workforce.

FBI graduated the first group of workers, who took advantage of a free, 96-hour, eight-week certification course on AIMS, a computer-based order-entry and data-management system for apparel companies.

The Labor Department financed the program through a grant, and FBI and AIMS provided the education and support. The city of Los Angeles-affiliated Community Career Development Inc. also assisted in providing recruitment and screening service.

Most of the 11 participants came from outside the industry, with little or no working knowledge of apparel companies. One participant, laid off from the Robinsons-May, buying office as a result of last year’s merger with Federated Department Stores, was looking for new options.
Students were taught the AIMS program because it deals with back-office operations of apparel company management and offers a thorough overview of apparel manufacturing and distribution. The system involves working with cost sheets, bill of materials, order management, EDI and other processes. Each participant was required to pass skills tests, and 10 passed and received certificates.

“If they get certified, they are trainable. They have the language, per se. So now they just have to go out and speak it,” explained AIMS principal Henry Cherner.
Added Frances Harder, executive director of FBI:”This opens up the door and provides them with opportunities to grow. It enables them to find jobs and climb the ladder.”
Participant Cynthia Bankole said the program was challenging but worth the daily three-hour sessions. “Mr. Cherner kept on us, and we received lots of support. It’s a good system to learn,” she said.