The Graphic Communications Technology program prepares you to enter the printing, photographic, and advertising industries with hands-on instruction in the production of a wide variety of printed products, from initial design to the finished product. You will learn skills in the layout/design using PC and MAC-based computers, the photographic processes (film based and digital) including portrait, product and fashion photography, film assembly, plate making, press operations, and finishing procedures. All major printing processes are covered including offset lithography, screen-printing, flexography and pad printing. Also included in the course are cost/inventory control, job planning, troubleshooting and repair of equipment, and estimating.
Qualities and Characteristics of the Program
If you are
· creative
· innovative
· imaginative
· independent
· intuitive
· mechanically inclined
If you have
- good eye-hand coordination
- the ability to work in a team environment
- good reading and spelling skills
- the ability to distinguish colors
- basic math skills
If you like to
- develop creative ideas (artistic ability is not necessary)
- work with tools, equipment, and computers
- work in a fast paced environment
- express yourself creatively
- problem solve
You will need
- a positive attitude
If you think
- these qualities and characteristics describe YOU
This may be the program you are looking for!
Nature of the Program: The graphic artist develops the “look” of the printed product, working in a pleasant, quiet atmosphere, using PC or Mac-based design computers and related hardware. Creativity rather than artistic ability is important.
The photographer works with a wide variety of cameras and films, as well as digital equipment and procedures. Finished photos (black & white and color) are digitized for use in computer-based applications. The photographer will work in two types of photo labs shooting and processing films. Photo manipulation is an important part of the photographers work.
Working in a quiet environment, the film assembler/plate maker uses tools and procedures to prepare color proofs and press plates. Requiring fine manipulative skills, the film assembler will work with single and multiple color work assignments. The use of computer-to-plate laser imaging equipment is part of the plate maker’s responsibility.
The press operator/screen printer is responsible for producing the printed product using a wide variety of printing equipment to print on paper, metal, wood, plastics, and fabrics. The graphics lab is equipped with the latest multi-color printing presses.
Completion of the Program: Upon completion of the Graphic and Printing Communication Technology program, students should have the qualifications to start a career as an advertising artist, commercial photographer, camera operator, plate maker, printing press operator, bindery equipment operator, estimator, or equipment repairperson. Graduates have the opportunity to pursue a degree in graphics management at the college level.
