TEXTILES.ORG
Lou Protonentis, a textile industry professional who has served in director-level positions with Cotton Inc. and Microban Intl., has joined AATCC as the association’s new technical director.
With core competencies in textile industry R&D, strategic planning, team building, global sales and staff supervision, Protonentis brings key skills and abilities to his new role with the association. As AATCC’s technical director, he will oversee all technical activities of the association, including: test method development and training, publication of the annual AATCC Technical Manual, development of new quality control materials, management of the association’s research and technology committees and management of the technical services activities. He will be the primary technical contact with members, companies, and textile, apparel, and materials-related organizations.
“Lou is ideally suited for this position,” said John Y. “Jack” Daniels, AATCC executive vice president. “His experience in the primary textile industry at Guilford Mills, his research and marketing positions with Cotton Incorporated, and his product and process development activities with Microban Products and Noble Biomaterials provide Lou with a seasoned background and the communications skills necessary to manage the many technical responsibilities of AATCC.”
During his tenure at Cotton Inc. from 1999 to 2009, Protonentis served in a broad array of roles, including director of technical services, dyeing and finishing. He was also director of account management, global supply chain, which involved a three-year assignment in Singapore where he developed a substantial understanding of the industry in China and Asia.
At Microban Intl., he was responsible for the overall direction, coordination and evaluation of the company’s antimicrobial product line for textile and liquid applications. This involved collaborating efforts with sales and marketing in both domestic and international markets. In his most recent position at Noble Biomaterials, he was responsible for the investigation, analysis and resolution of product performance issues.