We are all highly aware that the print industry is facing a serious workforce challenge. As experienced professionals retire and fewer young people enter the field, companies across the country are feeling the strain. At the same time, misconceptions about print careers—often seen as outdated, narrowly defined, or not sexy enough—continue to limit awareness among students. As the industry association, Print Creative Alliance is working to change that narrative and build a strong, modern talent pipeline.
A key part of this effort is the Alliance’s investment in education and access. Print Creative Alliance offers graphic arts scholarships designed to both attract new talent and strengthen the skills of the current workforce. Supported by the Guy and Louise Condrott Scholarship Fund, Inc. and the R.A.I.S.E. Foundation fund, these programs provide approximately $30,000 in scholarships and student contests. By reducing financial barriers, these scholarships open the door for students to explore careers in print, design, and production.
Beyond financial support, the Alliance is focused on creating real-world pathways into the industry. Internship and mentorship programs connect students directly with print businesses, giving them hands-on experience and exposure to career opportunities they may not have previously considered. These programs also allow employers to engage early with emerging talent—helping shape skills, build relationships, and create a more seamless transition from classroom to career.
Additionally, programs directly with key graphic arts programs are designed to bridge the gap between education and industry by actively engaging with schools, educators, and training programs. Through partnerships with institutions like Red Rocks Community College and Warren Tech, students gain exposure to modern print technologies, production workflows, and career pathways that extend far beyond traditional perceptions of the industry. These programs emphasize hands-on learning, access to current equipment, and curriculum that reflects the realities of today’s print and graphics environment.
A key focus of these student initiatives is fostering stronger connections between students and employers. By facilitating industry tours, classroom engagement, and direct dialogue with print professionals, Print Creative Alliance helps students better understand the breadth of opportunities available—from design and prepress to production, packaging, and emerging technologies. At the same time, employers gain valuable insight into how students are thinking about their careers and what they need to succeed.
Importantly, these programs also address a critical perception gap. While many educational programs have shifted away from explicitly using the word “print,” production remains deeply integrated into graphic design and visual communications curricula.
Innovative training environments are also playing a critical role. Programs like Spyder Lab, a comprehensive, engaging graphic media production and digital fabrication program that teaches students the design, technical and business skills necessary for a career in a wide range of companies and industries. in Los Angeles are helping redefine how students experience print, blending creative design with advanced production technologies in a collaborative, future-focused setting. These types of initiatives demonstrate that print is not just a legacy industry—it is a dynamic space where creativity, technology, and sustainability intersect.
It’s important to note that AI is also changing the print industry forcing technological changes and advancements that can make the industry more competitive.
These combined efforts are helping ensure the industry not only addresses its current labor shortage but builds a resilient, future-ready workforce.
As the print industry evolves, so must its approach to talent. Through scholarships, mentorship, internships, and strategic partnerships with education programs, the Alliance is leading the way—proving that with the right investment and collaboration, the next generation of print professionals is already within reach.
