ITA realizes clients may have needs that require added input or specific expertise that we may not be able to provide first hand or as extensively as needed. And there may also be times where, in order to meet schedules for clients, we must call on others for assistance. We often utilize the talents of associates, many of whom have their own consulting practice, to assist or supplement our work. In order to maintain confidentiality, associates are required to work under the same Code of Ethics and terms of nondisclosure agreed to by ITA.

There are also times where we may do work for others as well when our expertise can be of assistance.

ITA collaborates with consultants and experts world-wide in its work. The following list is not all-inclusive, but represents some of those we work with most often.

NOTE: Click on the underlined name to get further information and to see link to contact them (ITA receives a copy of all contact forms).

Senior Associates:

Jim Hendrix, PhD, Jim Hendrix & Associates, Pacolet, SC
Jim is a former VP and Director of R&D for Springs Industries in the industrial sector and has extensive experience in product development, chemical, technical, and manufacturing areas. Jim became associated with ITA in 2001 and we have had a number of successful opportunities to work together in helping clients. Jim also teaches chemistry at the University of South Carolina and does forensics research on fibers.

Dong Zhang, PhD
Dr. Zhang was formerly nonwovens research professor at TANDEC, University of Tennessee. He has extensive experience in management of industrially funded R&D projects on nonwovens including advanced meltblown and spunbond processes. He currently serves as Managing Editor of the Journal of Industrial Textiles. Dr. Zhang has strong background in textiles and nonwovens, polymer engineering, industrial textiles and material engineering, process-product-specification relationship and process optimization. He is fluent in the Mandarin language.

Associative Relationships:

Stephen Metzger, PhD, ICA, International Competitive Assessments, New York:
Stephen has a background as an economist and does specialized and focused market research studies. He has worked with a number of international clients.

Doug Jackson, LMRA, Weaverville, NC:
LMRA's specialty is n-depth multi-client and custom studies relating to high performance fibers and their market applications using fabrics, cordage, and other textile constructions.

Mike Di Ruscio,
ITA is pleased to welcome Mike Di Ruscio as an Associate. Mike is a professional manager with an extensive background in directing manufacturing operations, product development and marketing activities in the industrial textile industry. A textile engineer with expertise in the design, development and manufacture of engineered and specialty industrial fabrics. With Mike on board, ITA can provide greater expertise in manufacturing and professional project management, areas frequently needed by clients.