INTEGRATING 3D AND AI IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A UNIVERSITY-INDUSTRY MODEL FOR PREPARING FUTURE-READY TALENT IN DIGITAL FASHION
Politecnico di Milano (ITALY)
About this paper:
Conference name: 20th International Technology, Education and Development Conference
Dates: 2-4 March, 2026
Location: Valencia, Spain
Abstract:
The rapid convergence of 3D and AI technologies is reshaping design, production, and sustainability practices across the fashion industry, creating an urgent need for digitally skilled, industry-ready professionals. However, traditional higher education systems often lack the agility required to incorporate fast-evolving technological tools, resulting in a widening skills gap. This paper presents a case study of university-industry collaboration aimed at preparing students through an intensive training program that integrates 3D+AI design and collaborative workflows.
Students with backgrounds in fashion and design learned to utilize digital design software during the training program, enabling them to create capsule collections that adhered to sustainable design principles. Students worked together in groups from various fields, combining diverse design backgrounds and learning from peers. Industry experts collaborated to establish learning goals, instruct technical skills, evaluate the results, and provide feedback through reviews and a final presentation that company leaders attended.
This case study exemplifies a scalable framework for university–industry collaborations that improve curriculum flexibility, stimulate innovation, and meet the evolving talent demands in the digital fashion industry. The insights may serve as a reference for institutions seeking to integrate advanced digital technologies into design education and build long-term collaborative frameworks with industry partners.Keywords:
University–Industry Collaboration, Digital Fashion, 3D Design, AI Fashion.