White, who assumed the role on 18 February, brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously served as the chief textiles and apparel negotiator for the US Trade Representative (USTR).
In this new position she will be responsible for spearheading policy initiatives critical to the US textile industry and bolstering the association’s lobbying efforts in Washington, DC.
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NCTO president and CEO Kim Glas said: “We are excited to welcome Katie to NCTO. Her extensive expertise and ongoing engagement with the US textile industry is instrumental in advancing our advocacy agenda and supporting this vital industry.”
Prior to her role in USTR, she served as an international trade policy advisor on the House Ways and Means Committee.
During her time at USTR and on Capitol Hill, White focused on trade policy issues such as de minimis and customs enforcement while playing a pivotal role in shaping US trade laws.
She contributed to the negotiation, implementation, and enforcement of trade agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Her collaboration with the textile and apparel industry has been evident throughout her career, particularly during the crafting of trade legislation.
White’s background also encompasses positions at the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and at the White House on the National Economic Council.
White said: “I am thrilled and grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to NCTO’s advocacy on behalf of the US textile industry. The textile industry is a critical, strategic manufacturing sector and a key contributor to our national defence and the overall US economy. I look forward to working with the NCTO team and our textile association members to advance priority issues and opportunities that impact the industry’s competitiveness and growth.”
The NCTO, headquartered in Washington, DC, serves as a voice for domestic textile manufacturers.
The organisation recently reported that 501,755 individuals were employed in the US textile supply chain in 2023 with shipments valued at $64.8bn.
In April last year, NCTO appointed Parkdale Mills as chairman and Chuck Hall as vice chairman.
