Heidelberg looks to the next generation

Print Solutions

Heidelberg is dedicated to guiding the next generation of print industry professionals and fulfilling the shortage of technically skilled operators through vocational development, educational outreach and real world application.

The company recently welcomed 90 new trainees to its apprentice programme based in Wiesloch-Walldorf, Germany.

‘Heidelberg is one of the few companies that can provide a long term career in the graphic communications industry,’ said Gareth McEwen, technical support manager. ‘We want to afford the opportunity to learn and develop while supplying the industry with highly trained print instructors to train on the functionality of Heidelberg's state of the art equipment.’

This year, Heidelberg USA will also add an apprentice press instructor to its growing team of trainees. The selected candidate will become well acquainted with pre-press, press and post press processes while also gaining in-depth knowledge of print theory, colour management, and efficiency.

To be accepted into the programme, candidates must possess a strong interest in operating the latest technology in offset equipment, as well as basic print knowledge and experience with colour management. The goal is to fulfil the growing need for trained operators to meet the future demand of current and potential customers.

‘As our industry evolves, it has become more difficult to find qualified technicians and skilled operators,’ said Paul Cavanaugh, skill service development manager. ‘While this may be a challenge for Heidelberg, we know that our customers are also experiencing difficulties when it comes to operating the latest equipment. We see a future opportunity to provide more supplementary training to our customers, and educate the next generation of operators.’