The print and graphics industry is evolving, and the Graphic Arts Alliance (GAA) is playing a key role in shaping its future. Through a partnership with the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) since 2018, GAA is empowering the next generation of professionals with the GAA Scholarship. This scholarship supports students pursuing careers in the print and graphics industries, providing financial assistance to GAA members, their employees, and their family members.
About the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)
Founded in 1956, PGSF is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to students pursuing careers in print and graphics. The foundation aims to close the skills gap in the industry by offering scholarships, career development, and networking opportunities, helping students prepare for the evolving demands of the sector.
The Importance of Education in the Industry
The print and graphics industry is rapidly changing, driven by technological advancements and digital media. Skilled professionals are in high demand, and education is key to meeting these needs. The GAA Scholarship helps equip students with the skills required for success, ensuring the industry's continued growth and innovation.
What is the GAA Scholarship?
The GAA Scholarship supports students in the print and graphics industries by helping cover tuition, supplies, and other educational costs. It is available to GAA members, their employees, and their family members. By investing in education, GAA is helping to ensure the industry's workforce remains competitive and capable of facing future challenges.
Eligibility
The GAA Scholarship is open to:
- GAA Members: Current GAA members can apply.
- Employees of GAA Members: Employees of member companies are eligible.
- Family Members of GAA Members: Family members can also apply.
Why This Scholarship Matters
For many students, tuition costs are a barrier to entering or advancing in the print and graphics industry. The GAA Scholarship helps reduce this financial burden, allowing students to pursue their career goals without accumulating excessive debt. By investing in education, GAA is ensuring the next generation is ready to meet the industry's evolving challenges.
Insights from Jeff White, Director of Development at PGSF
To further explore the importance of education and the partnership between GAA and PGSF, Jeff White, Director of Development at the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation, shares his thoughts on the evolving industry and the significance of the scholarship program.
- What advice would you give to individuals pursuing careers in the printing and graphics industries?
Jeff emphasizes that while the printing industry has changed dramatically over the years, it remains an exciting and innovative field to enter. The rise of digital technologies has revolutionized the way we print and what we print, from reduced costs to greener practices. According to Jeff, the demand for highly skilled labor has never been greater.
His advice for those pursuing a career in the industry includes staying current on technology, understanding the role of software in modern printing, developing a diverse skill set, and seeking out mentors. He also encourages individuals to embrace change and remain adaptable as new challenges and opportunities arise.
- How has your partnership with GAA been since partnering in 2018?
Jeff states, “the Graphic Arts Alliance has been a great partner of the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation. Since 2018 their contributions to the fund have increased to over $100,000, placing the GAA at the “Gutenberg” level of endowments – putting the organization amongst the highest contributors to the foundation. Each year we are able to use the proceeds from these funds to help students pay for their education. This past year we awarded over $7000 to students studying at universities. These scholarships automatically renew for the student for up to 4 years, as long as they stay in the curriculum and maintain a 3.0 GPA.”
Building the Future Together
The collaboration between the Graphic Arts Alliance and the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation is helping to shape a promising future for the print and graphics industry. With scholarships like the GAA Scholarship, the next generation of professionals is empowered to succeed in this dynamic field, equipped with the education and skills needed to meet the challenges of an evolving marketplace.
By investing in education, fostering talent, and addressing the industry's skills gap, GAA and PGSF are ensuring the continued growth and success of the print and graphics industry for years to come.
How to Apply
Applicants can apply through the PGSF website at www.pgsf.org.
Learn How GAA Works
Offering instant savings with no downsides GAA can help you increase profitability, decrease costs, and expand your portfolio of services. Our members are part of a group dedicated to achieving profitability, fostering innovation, and ensuring your success. Join some of the industry’s most elite printers in offset, digital, flexo, wide format, and packaging. Visit https://graphicartsalliance.com/ to learn more.
