Alumni in Print – Where Are They Now?
The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation is publishing profiles featuring some of their more than 6000 former scholarship recipients. This series gives you an up close and personal insight into the thoughts and motivations of the former students who are a part of our industry today. As our current employees reach retirement and leave, replacing them becomes an increasingly important factor for many companies. Here is one story…
A Profile
Anthony Nassano received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Art Academy of Cincinnati and graduated in 1999. He continued his education and received an Associate’s degree in Graphic Imaging Technology from Cincinnati State, graduating in 2010.
How did you first get interested in the graphic arts, or decide to focus on graphic communications in school?
I studied fine arts and painting while at the Cincinnati Art Academy. I became interested in etching and lithography during my time there. My first job out of college was at a design firm. There I became more interested in printing and color theory. So, I decided to attend Cincinnati State to further my education and become more knowledgeable about printmaking and print technology.
Did you take any courses in high school that were related to graphic communications, or that prepared you for your planned career?
No, there were not many options in High school when I was there that addressed graphic communications.
How do you think going through your education process prepared you for the workforce?
Going through the education process prepared me for the workforce by being focused, and working to achieve my goals in a timely manner. It has also helped me multitask and prioritize my workload for efficient results.
In the Workforce Today
What company are you working for now and what types of products and services do they provide to their customers?
I work for Haney Inc. which is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. We are a pre-press R&D facility and work with many clients on high-end print designs and brand identity. We are on the cutting edge of print design and printing effects, and help our clients bring their brand to shelf faster and more reliably. We utilize numerous digital and analog printing methods, platemaking technologies, color theory, and automation to achieve high-end visual results. We produce artwork for clients that incorporate foil stamping, holographic effects, raised and tactile varnishes, and extended color gamut printing.
What job did you first have with the company when you started, what position do you have now, and/or what else have you done since joining the company?
I first started at Haney Inc. as a Color Proofing Specialist. I have my hands in numerous departments now, and am an expert in platemaking technologies finishes and effects. We utilize Epson proofing, Kodak Approval proofing, Indigo proofing, Oce and Roland digital printing, etc. I am a platemaking and printing specialist who has experience across a wide range of print disciplines.
What do you think employers are looking for in today’s workforce and the current industry environment?
I think employers are looking for a broad range of experience across multiple printing methods. Technology is changing and evolving at such a fast rate that it is vital to stay ahead of the curve. There are so many variables in the entire design process, from proofing, to press, that a broad understanding of the entire process is a necessity. You must also be focused on pushing forward goals that get a brand design in front of the consumer at faster rates, with more challenging design and finishing variables. An efficient and thorough process is vital to The First Moment of Truth, when the consumer interacts with a brand on the shelf, and connects with the brand identity.
Is there anything that you have found to be particularly different from what you initially expected, now that you’ve progressed through your work career for a period of time?
What I have noticed is that it always seems like you are off to the races. Brands and companies are always searching for the newest and greatest print technologies while simultaneously trying to lower the cost of printing with these new techniques. It seems, at least on my end, that the R&D and printing processes themselves are more integrated with design at an earlier process to ensure better success with the end product. Or at least that is the way it should be, but sadly not always the case.
I have found that the technology in the workplace is moving much faster than what is taught in school. I think this puts the student at a significant disadvantage before entering the workforce. I also believe that makes Co-op positions all the more important in the education process. Working in the actual fast paced environment, with all of the up-to-date software and techniques is a priceless advantage.
Have you changed your plans or ideas about what area or type of job you might like to have since you first considered the graphic communications field and began studying for a career in it?
I haven’t completely changed my plans or ideas, but I have modified them to be more relevant and up to date with today’s workplace. I have always addressed my weaknesses and lack of understanding in any area of graphic communications. If I felt I needed to understand better, then I have always searched out knowledge, answers, and experience to lift me over any certain plateau. With the ever-evolving landscape of graphic communications it is vital to embrace the newest technologies and understand the changing standards and print applications. There is a broad range of possibilities and directions within this industry, which I also believe makes is very important to find an area of specific expertise, and focus on that. It is far too easy to be overwhelmed by the amount of information, and numerous disciplines within our industry.
What do you see yourself doing a few years from now?
I see myself moving towards a manager position, and having more influence in the processes and standards that define our industry. I am interested in color management, platemaking, finishing and really understanding the streamlining of the entire process from art concept, design, proofing, printing, and finishing.
Was being a recipient of a PGSF scholarship important, or did it have an impact on your future or ability to succeed in the industry?
Yes, being a recipient of the PGSF scholarship was very important to me. It helped me out financially, and it also helped enforce that I was on the right path to success in this industry. I believe that with hard work and dedication anyone could succeed if they give it their all. It also looks good on my resume, and is a good point of conversation for employers. Thank You.
Anything else that you would like to add?
I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to communicate with you on this subject. I am also grateful for the help and learning opportunities that the PGSF scholarship has given me. I look forward to learning and growing within this industry. Thank You.
PGSF works to inform young people about the opportunities that are available in the graphic arts industry and then support them during their educational phase. To learn more about PGSF, or how you can support its work, visit www.pgsf.org or contact John Berthelsen at [email protected]. PGSF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Prefer to comment without registration? Click in the Name field and select "I'd rather post as a guest"