Straight to the printing press

By Sara O'Dacre

odac0004@algonquincollege.com

Algonquin’s exciting and unique print media program has been condensed from a two year program to a 45 week program in order for students to enter the print industry at a faster rate.

“This industry is changing every day, and the equipment is always changing too,” said Violet Storto, the program co-ordinator for print media.

With the newly designed program, graduates will be able to meet the print media industry’s growing needs for workers.

“Last fall, we changed it from a one year program instead of a two year. We don’t usually have enough grads to fill employers’ needs,” said Storto.

Storto said the students go through a job shadowing process, as well as a field placement later on.

First-year print media student, Angus McInnes, said he entered the program because working in the print media industry runs in his family. His uncle is currently involved in the business and works for a printing press.

“He has connections,” said McInnes with a smile.

He said he would recommend this program to anyone interested in print media and design because of the great skills developed and the worthwhile connections that are made within the print media industry.

Fellow classmate Dan Younger said he enrolled in the program because design was something he excelled in during high school and was interested in pursuing it as a career.

“I like the course because you’re free to do what you feel like doing,” said Younger.

Younger said he likes how the program is intensive. He is confident the program will efficiently teach him, as well as other students, how to become qualified for different jobs in the print media industry.