2018 SGIA Expo Features Robust Educational Program for Graphics and Signage Producers

In addition to hosting more than 500 exhibitors, the 2018 SGIA Expo (October 18–20, Las Vegas) will take an in-depth look at the latest printing technologies, applications and opportunities through its 72-session educational program. 

With the Expo + Education Pass, attendees will have access to the full array of educational sessions, designated by track to outline content specific to a particular industry segment or areas of crossover. 

“Staying competitive in today's printing industry requires strong industry-specific knowledge,” said Dan Marx, Director of Content Development, SGIA. “The educational programming at this year's SGIA Expo has essential, up-to-the-minute information for printing businesses seeking to reinforce their current plans, or launch their businesses toward new, profitable opportunities. With the Expo + Education Pass, attendees can receive top-quality information at a bottom-line-friendly price.” 

Among the sessions for graphics and signage producers and installers are: 
•    Digital Opportunities to Add Profits to Your Pockets
Matt Buckley and Mary Ann Geers, GPA, Specialty Substrate Solutions 
•    How and When to Set Up Your Automated Workflow
Jeremy Pilcher, Innovate Print Solutions 
•    Inkjet Maintenance: The High Cost of Inaction 
Travis Barcelona, Nazdar 
•    Soft Signage is Everywhere! Grasp the Possibilities! 
Mike Wozny, EFI 
•    Women in Print Award Winners Panel Discussion
Adrienne Palmer, Big Picture magazine

“As technology is growing, it is becoming easier and easier to utilize it to automate tasks in your printing workflow that at one time were not easily obtainable,” said Pilcher. “My session will discuss when it is feasible to set up automation and describe five key points in setting this up, which include getting the right people, setting up the best environment, getting the right equipment, getting the right technology in place and what kind of investments you need to achieve this.” 

“For print service providers to be seen as value-added partners in the eyes of their clients, it’s critical to stay informed about innovative products and ideas,” said Geers. “Knowing how to harness unique substrates and advanced printing techniques can pay off in higher margin projects that are harder for the competition to duplicate at lower costs. Our session will cover the latest substrates available, helpful tips, market insights and insider information designed to give attendees actionable ideas for growth.” 

Additionally, sessions such as “60 Minute Print Sales Boot Camp” with Peter Ebner, Ebner Seminars, and “Turn Your Team into A Championship Team: Hiring, Training, Management, Motivation and Retention” with David Fellman, David Fellman & Associates, will enable attendees to examine their business approaches. 

“There’s an old saying about only being as strong as your weakest link. I’m going to talk about identifying those weaknesses, and then doing something about them,” said Fellman. “There’s no snap-your-fingers solution to staffing challenges, of course, but this session will teach attendees how to create an improvement plan, including timelines and benchmarks, that will put them in better HR shape than they're probably in now.” 

The Expo + Education Pass is free for SGIA members and, for a limited time, $99 for nonmembers. Attendees can also participate in two pre-Expo half-day sessions — “Essential Small Business Strategies” and “Wide-Format 101: Essential Skills for Success” — for which separate registration and fees are required. 

The 2018 SGIA Expo will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For more information and to register, visit sgia.org/expo.