Four more students have graduated Flexographic Tech’s press operator course, the Minnesota-based not-for-profit organization announced.

Participating students completed at 12-week course from July 10 to Sept. 15,  featuring a mix of hands-on and classroom training. They are now able to run flexographic presses.

Graduates include:

• Aaron Pitt, Computype

• Xai Thao, AWT Labels & Packaging

• Vang Thao, AWT Labels & Packaging

• Andrew Webber, Blanco Inc.

As part of the students’ final exam, there were asked to run a tight register, seven-color job with a die cut. In order to receive maximum points, they were required to set up the job in under 850 feet. Time played a pivotal role in the grading process, as the students had to perform both setup and clean up in less than 3.5 hours. In addition, the students completed a 150-question written final exam and achieved their FTA Level One Certification.

“Flexo Tech is a great way to get your foot in the door of flexographic printing,” Webber said. “This course is perfect for learning all of the ins and outs of this industry, and it will teach you all of the skills needed to be a successful printers. I would recommend this class to anyone interested in this career path.”

Xai Thao agreed, noting he was working as a press helper before taking the course.

“After going through the Flexo Tech Press Operator training program I was able to become an entry-level operator, not a helper anymore,” he said. “I am excited about my new career and the benefit it will have on my future.”

Vang Thao called Flexographic Tech a “great experience.”

“It has made me appreciate the printing industry a lot more,” he said. “It allowed me to learn what it takes to operate a press and what goes on to ‘behind the scenes’  to create a label. My education at Flexo Tech will without a doubt help improve my career in this industry.”

Flexographic Tech

www.flexographictech.org