Editor’s note: Following is a brief Q & A with James F. Robbins, president and CEO of Elastic Fabrics of America, Greensboro, NC. Robbins, vice chairman of the National Textile Association (NTA), is expected to be elected president during the group’s 152nd annual meeting Sept. 17- 19 at The Hotel Viking in Newport, RI. He answered questions sent to him by Devin Steele, STN editor.
STN: What are your goals as NTA chairman and how do you plan to go about achieving them?
Robbins: To ensure the longterm viability of the organization by working to communicate the value this group provides to the industry.
STN: How long have you been an NTA member and how has NTA benefited you?
Robbins: Since 1989. From a personal standpoint, it would be the relationships I have developed over the years. From a business perspective, most recently the continued updates and detailed information on trade bills.
STN: Why is serving in a leadership role such as this important to you?
Robbins: I am honored to serve because I have a great deal of respect for the membership of this group.
STN: What’s your sales pitch to prospective members?
Robbins: I really do not like the term “ sales pitch.” I think if we communicate effectively to prospective members they will be able to see the value of this organization which is clearly focused on the needs of the textile industry.
STN: How has Elastic Fabrics of America adapted to these fast-changing times?
Robbins: Product innovation, flexibility and moving from a mindset of a textile producer to a solution provider.
STN: As a child, did you envision yourself doing the type of work you do now?
Robbins: I thought I would like to be in the business world, but had no idea about textiles at that time.
STN: Tell us a little bit about your childhood, parents, raising, etc. and how all of this pointed you in the direction to get where you are today.
Robbins: I would say pretty normal — school and sports occupied most of my time. I always had part-time jobs growing up and worked fulltime during the summer doing landscaping and construction. I think I learned early on what I did not want to do long term.
STN: Who have been some of your biggest influences and why?
Robbins: From a business standpoint it has been several people I have been associated with. From a personal standpoint, my parents gave me a good sense of balance and work ethic.