Emily J. Oertling

2026-2029

Dr. Emily J. Oertling is an Assistant Professor of Fashion Merchandising and Management at California State University, Sacramento, where she teaches apparel construction, research methods, and sustainability. She has eleven years of college‑level teaching experience and leads initiatives that connect students with industry professionals, including establishing a Fashion Advisory Council in her current role. Emily’s research examines the socio‑cultural factors shaping people’s relationships with dress and appearance, with particular attention to bridging gaps between Northern California’s Fibershed community and the region’s broader population. She holds a PhD from Kansas State University, an MA from the London College, and a BS from the University of Rhode Island, and has created work for Nike, Calvin Klein, L’Oréal, and the U.S. Department of Defense. Her service record spans multiple professional organizations, including the Textile Society of America and ITAA, and she currently served as Chair of the 2026 CSA Scholars’ Roundtable.