Inkjet signage is one of the bright growth spots in the graphic arts world with increasing demand for skilled applicators across the range of car wraps and outdoor signs.
One of the best growth potentials of the industry is in danger of being compromised by shoddy work and the use of inappropriate materials. According to Alex McClelland, AP managing director Spandex (pictured), the levels of skills and knowledge in the signage sector are lagging behind market demand.
“There is high demand in the signage, vehicle, display and point-of-sale graphics areas for skilled applicators who understand the physical characteristics, printing and handling of sign vinyl and other materials. It is one area of the graphic arts that is showing strong employment growth but up-skilling and re-skilling of trade staff has lagged behind market demand.
“As a result, there is too much sub-standard work out there where either the wrong materials have been used, or incorrectly applied.”
To address the shortage of skilled practitioners, Spandex has teamed with adhesive materials manufacturer Avery Dennison to host a series of certificated training workshops.
Three course levels are available; Essential, Intermediate and Advanced with all three requiring the pre-completion of a free online Avery Academy tutorial in preparation. Costs for the workshop courses are from $195 to $225, which includes materials, catering, manuals, an applicator pack, DVD and certification. Multiple delegates from the same company will receive discounted rates.
“The courses offer proficiency in the production and application of indoor and outdoor graphics to walls, windows, buildings, fleet vehicles and public transport. In the case of vehicle wraps, they must withstand regular cleaning, abrasion, harsh weather and high UV. If applied poorly or using the wrong materials, inks and laminates, they will fade, peel, shrink and crack. These workshop courses are a terrific pathway to self-improvement for both individuals and companies,” said McClelland.
Class sizes are kept to fixed numbers so positions are limited. For further information and bookings, go to the Spandex website under ‘Training.’
Session timetable:
Melbourne – May 8 & 9
Sydney – May 15 & 16
Brisbane – June 1 & 6
Adelaide – July 24 & 25