Formal training and education for a printing press operator remains the best way to learn all the details of this job. A lot of operators are trained on the job while working as assistants to experienced printers. The majority of the duties of an assistant would be general maintenance on the machine as well as loading and unloading documents and printed items. Over time, advancement opportunities become available. Many printers learn the tricks of the trade while working and are able to gain experience that leads to promotions.
Prior to the growing needs in this industry, many individuals learned the job in an apprenticeship. Nowadays though, this method is becoming obsolete. Many workers are now being trained at schools in order to gain the knowledge needed to adapt to the newest trends and equipment. Once a person is established as an apprentice they are able to advance to a “real” position. This is based on the certainty of understanding all the procedures. It used to be that they went for a specific amount of time. Now the training is based on the amount of time it takes for a person to learn the trade.
In today’s world of the printing press, theoretic and technical knowledge is crucial to an individual seeking employment in this industry. The onset of technical and community colleges offering programs now is tremendous. Many postsecondary schools are now requiring a 2-year associates degree program in order to award completion. Persons with a degree from these schools finish with the knowledge needed to go right into a position.
It is necessary for a person wishing to enter the world of the printing press to possess mechanical skills. A press operator must be competent enough to make necessary adjustments and repairs. Mathematical courses may also prove to be beneficial in order to calculate ink distribution and paper quantities while oral and written skills are necessary to communicate problems, concerns or issues. Due to developments affecting the printing industry today, chemistry, physics and theory course may also be relevant.
Technology is fast becoming the new generation of printing. With this said, it is crucial for printers to be fluent in many aspects of computer skills. Ongoing training and continued education courses are available to ensure full knowledge of this ever-growing industry.
