The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), a key trade association representing the full spectrum of the U.S. textile industry, held its annual meeting from April 14-16, 2026, and completed officer elections for fiscal year 2026. Amy Bircher Bruyn, CEO and Founder of MMI Textiles, was elected Chair, with Jay Todd as Vice Chair. The election results were officially announced on May 5. This leadership change signals a new strategic direction for the organization.
Background and Organizational Role
NCTO represents the entire U.S. textile supply chain, from fiber production to finished sewn products. The annual meeting took place in Washington, D.C., and the new leadership team will begin their terms in fiscal year 2026. Chair Bruyn brings extensive entrepreneurial experience from her role at MMI Textiles, while Vice Chair Todd also possesses deep industry knowledge.
The leadership transition occurs at a critical time for the U.S. textile sector, which continues to face challenges from import competition, shifting trade policies, and the need for technological modernization. The new team is expected to prioritize these issues while potentially introducing fresh perspectives on industry advocacy.
Industry Impact and Policy Focus
The U.S. textile industry has undergone significant structural changes in recent years, with domestic manufacturers investing in automation and sustainable practices while competing against lower-cost imports. NCTO's leadership shift could influence the direction of policy lobbying efforts in the coming period.
Historically, the organization has been instrumental in trade agreement negotiations, rules of origin discussions, and anti-dumping actions. Under new leadership, key priorities are likely to include:
- Strengthening domestic supply chain resilience and reducing reliance on foreign inputs
- Advocating for stricter import regulations to protect local producers
- Promoting innovation and workforce development to enhance competitiveness
Additionally, the U.S. textile sector faces pressure from tightening environmental regulations and evolving consumer preferences. The new leadership must balance traditional manufacturing strengths with the demands of green transformation, requiring strategic agility.
Practical Recommendations
For Buyers - Monitor NCTO's policy positions under new leadership, particularly regarding trade barriers and rules of origin, which may affect import costs and compliance. - Assess the proportion of U.S.-based suppliers in your supply chain and diversify sourcing to mitigate potential policy shifts. - Engage with industry associations to stay informed about standard updates and market trends.
For Exporters - Track trade protection measures advocated by NCTO, such as anti-dumping investigations or quota adjustments, which directly impact export operations to the U.S. - Consider establishing or partnering with production facilities in the U.S. to hedge against tariff risks and gain proximity to end markets. - Enhance product value through technological innovation or sustainability certifications to strengthen competitiveness in the U.S. market.
Overall, NCTO's recent election is a noteworthy development for the U.S. textile industry. How the new leadership navigates complex trade dynamics and industrial transformation will be closely watched by stakeholders in the months ahead.