Education Summit Held During PRINT 09
Due to the efforts of these volunteer individuals, and through the support of several industry associations, the ESGC has been able to accomplish important goals for the future. Here are some of the results:
Working Towards New Improved Government Job Classifications
For many years, the federal government has been using outdated job descriptions for gathering data about the industry which is used for Standard Occupational Classification. These classifications affect not only how the industry workforce information is reported, but also how it is used by researchers, career counselors, and how school funding and training programs are handled. After many years of working with the Office of Management and Budget and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2009 new job descriptions and industry comments were accepted. This is a major step forward with the government towards recording how many prepress technicians are employed rather than the number of linotype operators. ESGC is continuing to work with the BLS to effect additional positive changes.
Attracting New Generations via Social Networking
In an effort to reach out to the "X and Y" generations, the ESGC group initiated significant activity on social networking channels. Our industry now has a presence in the virtual world located on Second Life at "Printalution Island." It is a spot for educators, students, potential students, and any interested parties to visit and learn from. It will continue to broaden as more educators and industry representatives step forward and realize a new understanding of how to engage students.