Individuals and employers working in the label and package printing/converting sector are set to achieve easier and better training with the launch of the Label Academy. A global training and certification program, the Label Academy has been devised and developed by renowned label industry guru Mike Fairley and Labelexpo to provide a dedicated set of e-learning modules for label industry employees.
The Label Academy consists of a series of self-study modules, combining free access to a detailed synopsis, relevant articles and videos with paid text books. Three modules will initially be available before further study topics are added: conventional label printing processes, digital label and package printing and environmental performance and sustainable labeling. At the end of the student's modular studies, they have the option of taking an online examination and earning a certificate. Each module is supported by a textbook, written by some of the leading experts in the industry. Books are available in printed and Kindle formats from Amazon.com and its regional sites.
It is expected that a Label Academy qualification will become a standard in the industry – for printers/converters, suppliers, brand owners and designers – and assist in providing a benchmark. In addition to self-study options, accredited training courses will be promoted through the Label Academy website.
The Label Academy concept was pioneered by industry expert Mike Fairley, who founded Labels & Labeling magazine. This was in direct response to a reduction in the number of dedicated printing colleges and the need to standardize training across the world. The label industry also has its own specific training needs with some of the widest range of materials, printing processes and finishing solutions of any printing sector.
The Label Academy is already fully supported by trade association partners: FINAT, TLMI and the LMAI and sponsored by Durst, Flint Group Narrow Web, HP Indigo, Kocher + Beck, MPS and UPM Raflatac.
Mike Fairley, founder of the Label Academy commented: "The Label Academy has been designed with industry involvement to provide people who are embarking on a career in the label profession with a foundation level of understanding about the industry and its exacting requirements. Label printing can be extremely technical with more production processes than other general printing jobs, so the aim is to up skill and give training to those starting out so they are crucially better placed to take over from current skilled and knowledgeable people as they reach retirement."