Meet the 2024 Women in Wide Format Winners: Shirley Dyson

Shirley Dyson
Owner
Signco

SHIRLEY DYSON STARTED in the sign industry back in the 1980’s and has seen the industry pivot from paint to vinyl to large-format printing. She is very knowledgeable in the sign industry and manages a team of graphic designers, sign production and fabricators, and installers. Shirley’s passion, sacrifice, and discipline in the sign and wide-format digital printing industry is unmeasurable. At 70 years old, she says she probably will be retiring soon, which is why makes this recognition even more special. A high achievement for someone with so much experience, Shirley shares her thoughts on what it takes to succeed.

What makes women leaders in the wide-format digital printing industry?

“Being a leader in the industry means using collaboration skills and the ability to connect with customers to find out their true signage needs,” she says. “I have found new ways to increase productivity while inspiring coworkers. Then I try to provide different perspectives and innovative ideas and bring them to the table. It’s important to always come up with ideas that are outside of the box.”

Here are some examples of her community and business involvement:

Shirley actively is involved with youth groups where she donates her time and materials to making banners and marketing materials. Shirley also is a member of LWML and donates her time and products to church and youth events. She donates banners to local soccer and Little League teams, providing them with a sign to hang at their games. Something that may seem small makes a huge difference and indelible impression on the kids, coaches, parents, and community.

Shirley also is involved in the local BIA and Civil Air Patrol-U.S. Air Force, providing high-quality, wide-format printed pictures for their classrooms. She is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and regularly attends their organization meetings.

How does your work push the industry forward?

“I am very artistic and am able to provide a mix of solutions with my wide-format printer coupled with a Gerber Sabre router to create signage that is unique,” she says. “I continue to hire young creatives whom I can teach and train so they can take the reign someday.” Her ability to find time-saving methods to cut down costs most likely is a major factor in why she has been in business all these years. According to her colleagues, Shirley is the go-to person when it comes to making signs that push the industry forward while providing a white-glove service.