Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton

The printing industry is one of those where specific training and experience is highly valued, but not always required for those looking to enter this field. Many local print shops will hire and train those without past experience or education. Many others look specifically for those with industry-related skills. Yet, others are union shops and they must adhere to the rules of the contracts there. Confusing? Perhaps. But this is an industry with centuries of history, and jargon and practices that have to be understood and followed whether you're using modern digital equipment, or more traditional manual machines. Read on to find a few tips on working in printing.

If you're thinking of entering into a press operating career, a simple eye test may help determine whether it's a worthy pursuit. Operators' ability to see colors plays a huge role in how successful they become. Taking an eye exam to ensure you can see color properly, and the slight variations between different shades of the same color, is an easy step in the planning process.

Some print shops in Calgary will hire employees with few skills, but good attitudes. While basic computer skills are always beneficial, a willingness to listen and learn from on the job training will go a long way. Many large print shops tend to hire people trained for specific positions.

Smaller print shops are also more likely to have employees cross over between departments, instead of concentrating solely on one area of the business. Those with the abilities to perform multiple tasks and work well within a team environment have desirable skills for this industry.

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) offers a two-year diploma in Digital Graphics Communication. The program name is currently being changed from Print Management Technology to reflect the evolving nature of the industry. The program includes courses that will cover everything from initial design, to press operations, to binding the finished product. Other changes -- some may not take place until the September 2001 school year -- include adding courses in web design, job flow and customer service.

The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) offers a one-year program in Graphic Communications that also covers the three basic stages of the graphic communication industry. This program was under review in late June, so be sure to contact the school before undertaking the application procedure.

The Alberta College of Art and Design offers four-year degree and diploma programs in Visual Communications for those considering a graphic arts career.

The University of Calgary offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, also for those considering a graphic arts career.

A degree specializing in printing management is available through Ryerson Polytechnic University in Toronto.

Scholarships for those pursuing full-time education in the print industry are available through the Canadian Printing Industries Association (CPIA). Consult the association's web page for specific requirements with regards to scholarships.

Local high schools also offer opportunities to gain some hands-on printing learning. At Crescent Heights High School through the Communication Technology courses, one course at the 10, 20 and 30 level, students learn techniques such as off-set printing, silk screening and desktop publishing. Lord Beaverbrook High School also offers printing related learning through its Communication Technology programs.

Some jobs in the printing industry are in unionized shops, usually the larger businesses. The Graphic Communications International Union and Communications, Energy & Paperworkers Union of Canada represent a number of workers in this industry and are good sources of information on the employment situation.

The Calgary Craftsman Club holds monthly meetings to discuss industry issues and welcomes prospective employees or students to take part. For more information contact: parnold@telusplanet.net.

The site of The Canadian Bookbinders And Book Artists Guild will provide specific direction for those interested in areas of the book arts such as bookbinding, calligraphy, paper makers, letterpress printers, paper marblers, and conservators.

A number of Calgary companies also hire people to complete piece work. These are projects that have to completed by hand. If a job requires papers to be folded in unusual directions, and then glued, some companies will hire people to complete these tasks and pay them by the piece. A call to employers (see Printers in the Yellow Pages) to have your name put on their "piece work" list will produce more information on these opportunities.

Apprenticeships for printing and graphic arts crafts people were in affect until a few years ago. Advances in technology made testing for these skills difficult due to high equipment replacement costs. A form of apprenticeship is still attainable, called an optional certification trade, but available only to those with five or six years of work experience.