Introduction

Leather technology in recent times is fast emerging as a lucrative career option. Until a few years ago, those who happened to be in the industry were there through experience rather than through any formal training. But now, in India, scores of institutes are offering certificate as well as diploma courses in designing as well as production, adding a much needed professionalism to this industry.

The Indian leather industry is growing by leaps and bounds. One must be wondering why is India exporting so much of leather to western countries. Apparently because leatherwear still enjoys a great demand abroad and nowadays even the domestic market is developing and consuming the offerings of this industry. To many, it would also be a surprise to know that the Indian Leather industry is the fourth largest export earner in the country. One can only imagine what shape this industry takes on further maturing.
Nature of Work
The demand of the leather goods is on the rise and is expected to grow further. With more and more multinationals coming to India, this industry is poised to become a hi-tech industry. Leatherwear constitutes a variety of products ranging from footwear and accessories like belts, bags, purses and caps to toys, upholstery, baggage, musical instruments, garment tags, gift items etc. The largest sub-section of this industry is still footwear, despite growing competition from the materials like synthetics and fabric.

At present, most of the people in this industry are not trained but now with this industry advancing and developing both technologically and professionally, it calls for qualified professionals to cater to the needs and requirements of the people. Thinking of this industry as a career option, one can either take up designing or may get into the technical side that is production, depending upon the interest and aptitude. Both the options are rewarding. As far as designing is concerned, world over, designers have started using leather as an important part of their designer wears and accessories, which has made leather amongst the top apparel material. The other option being production is also not a bad proposition. On attaining requisite qualifications in the field of production, one can start working with leather manufacturing companies and tanneries. On gaining experience setting up self owned production unit could also be given a thought. The initiative can be advantageous as it is a low cost-intensive small-scale unit, requiring relatively small investment, cheap labour, raw material and minimal power supply.
Personality
Leather industry as such, does not ask for very special attributes but just like any other industry, to be a high achiever, commitment, dedication and hard work are the key, the same goes true for this industry. If one happens to be in the production line. The work can be quite tiring, specially while working in the tanneries and production houses, often involving a lot of physical hard work and strain.

Designing successfully, on the other hand is more of a combination of mental ability and artistic finesse. Creativity with uniqueness can do wonders for designers. So being creative and original is of utmost importance. They should combine well their mental ability to constantly think and come up with new ideas, with dexterity so as to give shape to their ideas.
Professional Courses
Whether designing or production of leather garments, footwear or accessories, professional qualification is important to up-date with the latest international standards and competition. The various institutes offering courses in leather garment designing and technology are as follows.

Career Prospects
The leather industry is set to boom with bright career opportunities in both technical and designing areas. The Indian corporate along with foreign multinationals in this industry have made it possible to look forward to exciting employment options. Earlier Indian exports included only raw materials, but now leather goods are fast catching up with increasing acceptance in the international markets. This has enhanced opportunities for designers.

Designers are found to be working with footwear companies as technical designers and stylist designers. While Technical designers train themselves in pattern making, cutting, designing, Stylist designers are responsible for updating the product in fashion and style. Designers are also employed by leather garment production houses and boutiques. Established designers also hire young designers to work under them.

On gaining sufficient experience, one can also set up his own unit for production and marketing of leather-based products. As far as career growth and progression is concerned it is purely performance based and there is no limit to what one can achieve.
Remunerations
As most of the jobs are in the private sector, pay is generally high. With Multinationals setting up their bases in India, this industry is no longer confined to small scale and financial returns can be quite satisfactory. Fresh recruits can expect a starting pay package between Rs. 5000 - 10000 p.m., depending upon their qualifications and the size of the organization. For freelancers and those self-employed in their own units returns are not fixed. It varies from one another based on individual performance.

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