GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS
& PRINTING TECHNOLOGY

Course Description

This course focuses on the knowledge and the operation of electronic imaging and manufacturing in the printing field. There is a strong emphasis on electronic art and design using Adobe Pagemaker, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe illustrator and its digital role in printing manufacturing which can greatly benefit the skilled computer graphic artist. The student is able to experience a variety of hands-on projects that lead to the understanding of printing manufacturing. This is done through the use of an electronic imagesetter, film assembly, proofing, plate developing, offset printing press operations, and machine finishing techniques (cutting, folding, binding). Students will work with a four color silk screen process, learning how to screen print T-shirts and various projects. This course gives the student an opportunity to be recognized nationally for outstanding skills through the SkillsUSA organization. Students successfully completing this program may earn several college credits from Montgomery College (Rockville, MD).

 

Find Out More About CAREERS IN GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS
• Detailed information on specific jobs and job search options
• Virtual Plant Tours
• Links to schools with graphic communications programs and
    scholarship information
• Links to local industry organizations nationwide with job and
    salary information
• And more!

Visit the GraphicCommCentral web site at
http://teched.vt.edu/gcc

Matching skills and interest with careers

Post High School Graduation – Graduates would enter at entry level positions.
Job opportunities are:
1) Press Operator ($8.00 to $29.00 per hour)
2) Bindery and Finishing Technician ($6.00 to $11.00 per hour)
3) Shipping and Distribution ($8.00 to$18.00 per hour)

Continuing Education – Graduates are able to obtain various degrees studying printing
1) Two year technical schools
2) A.S. Degree in Printing Technology
3) B.S. Degree in Printing Management
4) Masters Degree in specified areas
5) Doctorate Degree in specified area

Completers in the CTC printing program receive credits for 2 classes on the “FAST TRACK” program at Montgomery College.

Job opportunities are:
1) Estimator ($27,000 to $50,000 per year)
2) Graphic Designer ($13,00 to $65,000 per year)
3) Prepress Imaging Specialist ($11,000 to $45,000 per year)
4) Sales/Account Representative ($27,000 to $140,000 per year)
5) Customer Service Representative ($21,000 to $50,000 per year)
6) Supervisor/Manager ($39,000 to $92,000 per year)

Certifications:
1) “PRINTED” Projected date for certification at CTC (2004-2005 school year)

POST SECONDARY CERTIFICATIONS (WWW.NCSGC.ORG)
2) Flexographic Press Operator’s Multi-color Certification
3) Sheet fed Offset Press Operator’s Multi-color Certification
4) Web Offset Press Operator’s Multi-color Certification
5) Prepress and Bindery certifications coming in near future