A shoe technologist identifies new designs and fashion trends in foot wear products. They also decide on the specific material to be used to improve the performance of the footwear. These professionals possess adequate technical knowledge to develop footwear in pace with the changing demands of the customers. Today, Indian footwear industry is expanding very fast and professionals with adequate skills are in great demand in such industries.

Qualifying Exam

To become a Shoe Technologist one must pursue specialized courses in Foot wear Technology. Several undergraduate, post graduates, certificate and diploma courses in footwear designing are offered through different Universities and Colleges in India. Selection of candidates in to most of the reputed Footwear Designing Institutes in India is based on an admission test. The entrance test is carried out nationally for students who are interested in foot wear technology. The courses are also offered as technical courses such as B. Tech or M. Tech in Foot wear designing. After completing the course, the aspirants can find opportunities in top footwear companies.

Who is eligible to apply?

Those who have passed 10 + 2 class under any stream can apply for Footwear Designing Courses. Adequate knowledge in CAD software is also preferred by certain institutes that offer courses in Foot wear design. Prominent institutes such as Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI), insist graduation as the basic qualification to get admission in to their Post Graduate Diploma course in footwear technology.

Key points in the process

• Obtain higher secondary education in any subject from a reputed educational institute in India.
• Pursue Foot wear technology from any of the reputed schools that offer courses in footwear designing.
• Look for an opening for shoe technologist and apply for the position.

Skills required for a Shoe Technologist

Those individuals who have innovative ideas in designing of foot wears can consider this as a suitable profession. They must possess the passion to design sports as well as athletic shoes. Proficiency in CAD software is preferred, as the software is extensively used for design purposes. Apart from adequate technical knowledge these professionals should possess problem solving skills. Another important quality required for a shoe specialist is that they must have patience in their work. This is because the design of an innovative product includes a lot of trial and error before reaching the final stage. Good communication skills and ability to work in team are also expected from these professionals.