Independent Textile Rental Association News

2025 ITRA Scholarship Winner Announced

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:07:23 GMT

The Independent Textile Rental Association (ITRA) is proud to announce the recipient of the 2025 ITRA Scholarship: Emma Smith, a student at the University of Kentucky and a member of the team at Springfield Laundry.

The ITRA Scholarship is awarded annually to support students pursuing educational opportunities that will strengthen the future of the textile services industry. We are thrilled to recognize Emma’s commitment to both her academic growth and the continued success of our industry.

Emma shared the following on what this award means to her:

"Receiving the ITRA Scholarship will not only help me financially complete my education, but will also allow me to further develop the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to this industry. By investing in my education, you are helping plant the seeds for future growth—both in my career and in the textile services industry as a whole. I am excited to continue building on the foundation I have already started and look forward to a future where I can help businesses like Springfield Laundry thrive for years to come."

Emma exemplifies the values of ITRA through her drive, dedication, and enthusiasm for the industry. We look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in her education and beyond.

To learn more about the ITRA Scholarship and how to apply in future years, visit itra.us/scholarship.

Congratulations, Emma!

ITRA and NELA Host Successful Joint Spring Conference

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:14:23 GMT

In June 2025, the Independent Textile Rental Association (ITRA) partnered with the NorthEast Laundry Association (NELA) to host their first ever joint Spring Conference and Golf Tournament. Held from June 3-5 in Massachusetts, the event brought together industry professionals for networking, education, and a behind-the-scenes plant tour.

“The first joint ITRA and NELA event was a big success. ITRA appreciated the hospitality and warm welcoming from the NELA association. It was energizing to be able to combine the two groups for a meeting for the betterment of all involved. Thank you to all who participated and worked to make it a great event!”

-John Johnston, Physicians Wear and ITRA Board President

Pictured: ITRA President, John Jonnston, welcomes attendees on the first night of the conference.

The conference kicked off with an evening networking session, where attendees had the opportunity to connect and build relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. The following morning, participants gathered at Whaling City Golf Course for a golf tournament under sunny skies. With ideal weather and a scenic course, the tournament provided a fun and energizing start to the event.

Photos: The crew lines up for the golf tournament at Whaling City Golf Course!

ITRA and NELA attendees heard from two engaging speakers. Angelo Alexander, a cybersecurity education expert with Cable Corp, LLC, delivered an insightful presentation on practical strategies for protecting digital environments. With over 20 years of experience in IT infrastructure and security, Angelo emphasized the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures for businesses of all sizes.

Keith Sampson followed with a powerful talk on living with purpose and contributing to something greater than oneself. His session focused on discovering one’s “why” and using it to inspire positive change within organizations and communities. Attendees left feeling uplifted and ready to bring renewed focus and energy back to their teams.

Pictured: Keith Sampson addresses the crowd on investing in yourself.

A standout moment of the event was the tour of Clean Uniforms and More. a state-of-the-art facility showcasing cutting-edge technology in the industry. The plant featured advanced automation tools and AI-powered sorting systems, offering attendees a firsthand look at innovation in action. Clean Uniforms and More also generously hosted a delicious lunch following the tour.

Photos: NELA and ITRA attendees gather to tour the high-tech Clean Uniforms and More plant.

Overall, the joint conference was a resounding success, offering valuable insights, meaningful connections, and a shared commitment to excellence across both associations.

"The ITRA/NELA meeting was one of the best mid-year events I have ever attended."

-Eddie Lee, United Textiles and ITRA Board Member

Thank you to the event sponsors:

Premier Sponsors

Alliant Systems

Platinum Sponsors

Braun
Kannegiesser

Gold Sponsors

American Dawn
Jensen
Milliken

Speaker Sponsor

Edwards Garment, Co.

Silver Sponsors

Brim Laundry Machinery
Calderon Textiles
Gurtler Industries
SanMar Corp.
Tingue
United Textile Distribution
Workwear Outfitters

2025 ITRA Scholarship Applications Open!

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:47:27 GMT

The Independent Textile Rental Association is committed to promoting and advancing professionals in the Textile Services industry. To demonstrate this commitment, ITRA awards one $2,500 scholarship annually to help fund the continuing education of an ITRA Member (Active or Associate) or their employee.

To apply for the scholarship, applicants must fit the following criteria:

An employee or immediate family of an employee of an ITRA Member in good standing.
Enrolled in a two or four-year accredited college.

The completion of the application is the responsibility of the applicant. One scholarship will be awarded per year but past recipients may re-apply each year as they continue through a program.

Application Process

Please submit the complete the application and upload the requested documents below before May 31, 2025 for the 2025 Fall session. Interviews will be conducted if necessary and the successful candidate will be announced at the 2025 Mid Year Conference.

If you have questions or concerns about the application process, please contact the ITRA office at (803) 486-8411 or info@itra.us.

Click here to submit your application.

New Email Address!

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:10:17 GMT

ITRA has a new email address!

Email us at hello@itra.us if you need anything at all.