Critical Knowledge and Skills Identified as Key to Successful Job Performance

Reston, VA - The Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation (GAERF) announced it will unveil Graphic Communications Skills Competencies (GCSC) at GRAPH EXPO 14, coming September 28 - October 1, 2014 to Chicago's McCormick Place. The competencies were written by industry professionals and graphic communications educators to provide measurable or observable knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors critical to successful job performance in six key content areas.

Each competency content area provides instructionally written competencies appropriate for educators as the basis for their curriculum, or for industry professionals to implement as training initiatives. The six competency content areas include:

• Digital File Preparation and Output
• Digital Production Printing
• Graphic Design
• Introduction to Graphic Communications
• Offset Printing/Bindery & Finishing, and
• Screen Printing

"Ensuring that graphic communications professionals have the skills and training they need to compete in the global marketplace is essential," said GAERF President Ralph Nappi. "The collaboration of many experts on these Graphic Communications Skills Competencies has created an outstanding resource for both educators and industry professionals."

The creation of the GCSC is in direct response to the skilled worker shortage that exists in our industry. These competencies, reflective of a constantly evolving industry, are designed to help meet the critical need for qualified workers. Access to, and use of, these competencies is free to all industry stakeholders.

GAERF contracted Intellective Solutions to author the Digital Production Printing competencies, and also to review and validate the competencies in each of the other five areas.

During GRAPH EXPO 14 all show visitors are encouraged to visit Education Main Street, booth #4942, to review the competencies that, on September 28, will also be available online at: www.graphiccommcentral.org/gcsc.