Keith
Print Entry Level Training Program
Cohort: Winter 2024
Student: Keith Herndier
LAYOFF to LIFTOFF
A former mechanic’s apprentice, Keith, was ready for a career change when he discovered the Print Entry Level Training (PELT) program. He was impressed by the course’s comprehensive approach—a solid foundation in industry terminologies, colour theory, general processes, and practical knowledge, as he called it.
What truly stood out for Keith were the opportunities to experience the industry in action via lectures from people within the industry or an even more impressive site tour of active print businesses. Keith also enjoyed being part of a PrintForward networking event, which enabled him to connect with industry professionals and landed him the opportunity at his current work.
crucial; once these machines are in full swing, even the smallest mistakes can rapidly snowball, jeopardizing thousands of products in mere moments. My responsibilities vary from loading materials to packaging the final products. Both tasks require agility, accuracy, and endurance. And to think, someone once told me I was too old to be on my feet all day!
Pressing Needs: the industry needs more people
It’s become abundantly clear to me why the Next Generation Task Force and Jennifer McConnel’s role with Print Forward are so essential: they aim to welcome the next wave of talent before seasoned operators hang up their hats. One of the trainers I work with is an incredible 72 years old! I recall sharing with him how, in previous roles, seasoned employees were often reluctant to mentor newbies, wary of being replaced. Without missing a beat, he quipped, “Want my job? Take it!” His sense of humor never waned, just like when he feigned shock on my second day, jesting, “You came back?”
The Training
On June 5, 2023, I embarked on the eleven-week PELT course, which seamlessly intertwined well-structured lectures with hands-on assignments. Our skilled instructor ensured that every morning’s theoretical lecture was paired with tangible, practical tasks in the afternoon. While I gained insights from individual projects, it was during group tasks that I truly felt the course’s essence. Collaborating with classmates from different professions,
backgrounds, and walks of life was illuminating. This diversity spotlighted the invaluable power of team work, revealing that learning wasn’t just confined to textbooks. Our main resource, “A Guide to Graphic Print Production: Third Edition,” deepened my grasp of the printing process. Thankfully, for someone like me without personal equipment, the institute provided computers and essential software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Our assignments were diverse, from crafting business cards to co-creating “cookie boxes” alongside Food and Beverage Production Worker trainees. A highlight of the course was the series of field trips facilitated by NWSI. These weren’t just token excursions; they offered immersive insights into the varied roles available for PELT graduates in the industry. Engaging with enthusiastic professionals and exploring areas like foiling, folding, and lamination broadened my perspective beyond just presses. Their candid discussions about job responsibilities and remuneration aided in shaping my industry goals. By the end of the course, I was proud that our batch set a record for the number of field trips, equipping us with a wealth of knowledge as I transitioned into the printing sector post-graduation.
Landing the Job
After finishing at NWSI, they helped send my resume to multiple printing companies on my ‘Next Steps’ list. This led to various interviews and eventually, a position as a Production Worker at Hemlock Harling. From the get-go, my coworkers were incredibly welcoming, helping me with basics like computer-based job logging. Their teamwork, especially in tight spots, is truly inspiring. On a lighter note, I’ve signed up for the company’s Badminton Tournament this September. Even though I’m new to the sport and there’s a tempting BBQ at noon, I remembered Cormac’s advice to join in on company events to build relationships. Who knows where these new connections might lead?
I knew next to nothing about commercial printing going into the course, but came out the other side with
a new appreciation of the industry.
Print Entry Level Training Program
Print is an essential service and a vital part of daily life. From packaging to marketing materials, print drives communication and supports the manufacturing economy in…
