Technology & Design · course plan
⚠ Pending professional review
This course plan, its lessons and its assessments has not yet been verified by an industry-certified professional or by a certification or approval body. It is a study draft and may contain errors. Do not use it as instructions for work on a job site or on live equipment. Always follow your instructor, your supervising professional, and current official references and regulations.
VoTechWorks program approval and accreditation are still in progress. Credentials are issued only by the certifying bodies named in each program, after their own exams.
Printing & Signage
10 courses · 900 clock hours · 4–6 mo full-time. Grading is competency-based: each course requires the written exam, a competent skills demonstration with zero safety faults, a signed log, and a passed safety audit; percentage weights only rank performance above the competency floor.
10courses
55lessons
900hours
35assessments
Development progressPlanCourses, lessons and assessments written for this tradeLessons55 of 55 lesson pages writtenPractice440 practice questionsResources113 reference entries (study list)Review0 lesson pages reviewed by a licensed professional
Study now: 55 lesson pages are open (lesson titles below are links).
TEC-PRIN79-01 Universal core
Universal Core: Safety, Math, Communication & Career for Printing & Signage
148 hr · $1,185 COMPLIMENTARY
This foundational course builds the safety, mathematical, communication, and professional skills every printing and signage technician needs before touching production equipment. Students earn OSHA 10-Hour General Industry certification and First Aid/CPR certification, practice trade-specific measurement and estimation, and develop the workplace readiness habits expected by sign shops, print service providers, and wrap studios. All content is mapped to the Printing United Alliance certification competency framework and to the practical knowledge base tested in 3M Preferred Installer qualification.
Outcomes- Complete OSHA 10-Hour General Industry training and pass the associated assessment, demonstrating knowledge of hazard recognition, lockout/tagout, and PPE selection for printing and signage environments.
- Perform trade math calculations—including unit conversions, scale factors, substrate area estimation, ink coverage, and job costing—accurately to within 2% on timed assessments.
- Read and interpret technical documents including safety data sheets (SDS), equipment manuals, customer work orders, and installation diagrams common to the printing and signage trade.
- Use standard digital productivity tools (email, cloud file sharing, job-management software concepts, and basic Adobe Acrobat for PDF proofing) to communicate professionally with customers and coworkers.
- Demonstrate CPR and First Aid skills to American Red Cross or American Heart Association performance standards.
- Construct a personal career portfolio including a resume, a professional goal statement, and a documented skills checklist aligned to entry-level job descriptions in print and signage.
Course text
This foundational course builds the safety, mathematical, communication, and professional skills every printing and signage technician needs before touching production equipment. Students earn OSHA 10-Hour General Industry certification and First Aid/CPR certification, practice trade-specific measurement and estimation, and develop the workplace readiness habits expected by sign shops, print service providers, and wrap studios. All content is mapped to the Printing United Alliance certification competency framework and to the practical knowledge base tested in 3M Preferred Installer qualification.
How the course runs. 7 blocks: Hazard Recognition and OSHA 10 for Printing & Signage; First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Response in a Shop Setting; Trade Math I — Measurement, Unit Conversion, and Scale; Trade Math II — Ink Coverage, Job Costing, and Pricing Concepts; Reading Technical Documents — SDS, Work Orders, and Installation Specs; Digital Tools and Professional Communication; Career Readiness and Professional Portfolio.
What competent looks like. Complete OSHA 10-Hour General Industry training and pass the associated assessment, demonstrating knowledge of hazard recognition, lockout/tagout, and PPE selection for printing and signage environments. Perform trade math calculations—including unit conversions, scale factors, substrate area estimation, ink coverage, and job costing—accurately to within 2% on timed assessments. Read and interpret technical documents including safety data sheets (SDS), equipment manuals, customer work orders, and installation diagrams common to the printing and signage trade. Use standard digital productivity tools (email, cloud file sharing, job-management software concepts, and basic Adobe Acrobat for PDF proofing) to communicate professionally with customers and coworkers. Demonstrate CPR and First Aid skills to American Red Cross or American Heart Association performance standards. Construct a personal career portfolio including a resume, a professional goal statement, and a documented skills checklist aligned to entry-level job descriptions in print and signage.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hazard Recognition and OSHA 10 for Printing & Signage | 32 | theory | Students will identify the primary workplace hazards in printing and signage operations—chemical, mechanical, electrical, and ergonomic—and correctly apply OSHA General Industry standards for lockout/tagout, hazard communication (HazCom/GHS), and PPE selection. |
| OSHA 10 authorized course materials and completion cards; GHS-formatted SDS binder for common shop chemicals (inks, solvents, adhesive primers, cleaning agents); PPE samples (nitrile gloves, safety glasses, chemical splash goggles, respirator cartridges, hearing protection); lockout/tagout kit with locks, tags, and hasp; OSHA General Industry regulations reference (29 CFR 1910 summary guide). | Passing score of 70% or higher on all OSHA 10 module quizzes (required for card); 80% or higher on instructor-written hazard-identification quiz covering SDS sections, PPE selection, and LOTO sequence; lockout/tagout practical observed by instructor—zero critical steps omitted to pass. |
| 2 | First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Response in a Shop Setting | 8 | lab | Students will demonstrate adult CPR with AED use and basic First Aid skills—including chemical splash response, minor laceration control, and burn care—to the performance standards of an accredited provider. |
| CPR mannequins (adult); AED trainer unit; eyewash station; First Aid kit (shop-grade); SDS binder; Emergency Action Plan template; American Red Cross or AHA Heartsaver student workbooks. | Certification card issued by the accredited CPR/First Aid provider upon successful skills check; instructor scenario rubric scored pass/fail—students must correctly perform all critical steps in at least two of three emergency scenarios to pass. |
| 3 | Trade Math I — Measurement, Unit Conversion, and Scale | 20 | theory | Students will accurately convert between imperial and metric units of length, area, and weight, calculate substrate dimensions from scale drawings, and determine material quantities for print and signage jobs to within 2% of the correct value. |
| Scientific calculators; rulers and tape measures (imperial and metric); printed scale drawings of signs and vehicle templates; substrate specification sheets from at least two vinyl manufacturers; blank estimation worksheets; answer keys for self-check. | Timed 20-question written math quiz; students must score 80% or higher with all answers within 2% of the correct value; any score below 80% triggers a one-on-one remediation session and a second attempt before progressing. |
| 4 | Trade Math II — Ink Coverage, Job Costing, and Pricing Concepts | 16 | theory | Students will calculate ink coverage area, material cost per square foot, and a basic customer quote using standard trade formulas and real-world substrate and ink pricing data. |
| Spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets); provided ink-coverage formula sheet; sample substrate price lists (instructor-prepared, based on current market examples); scientific calculators; trade pricing reference: PRINTING United Alliance educational resources. | Practical quiz: students receive a new job specification and independently produce a full material-quantity calculation, a cost-per-square-foot figure, and a final quoted price in 30 minutes; 80% accuracy on each sub-calculation required to pass. |
| 5 | Reading Technical Documents — SDS, Work Orders, and Installation Specs | 18 | theory | Students will extract critical information from safety data sheets, customer work orders, manufacturer installation guides, and equipment manuals using a structured reading strategy, then apply that information to answer job-specific questions with 85% accuracy. |
| Printed SDS documents (three different products); sample shop work orders (instructor-created); 3M application instruction documents for cast vinyl and window film (publicly available from 3M Commercial Solutions); guided reading templates; comprehension quiz answer key. | Written comprehension quiz on the 3M installation guide scored by instructor; 85% or higher required to pass; SDS template is reviewed by instructor for completeness—all four required fields must be correctly filled for each SDS to count as satisfactory. |
| 6 | Digital Tools and Professional Communication | 30 | practice | Students will use email, cloud file sharing, PDF proofing in Adobe Acrobat, and basic job-management workflow concepts to handle a simulated customer interaction from quote request through proof approval, meeting professional communication standards. |
| Computers with internet access; Microsoft Outlook or Gmail; Google Drive or OneDrive; Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) installed; sample print-ready PDF files (instructor-provided); professional communication style guide (one page, instructor-created); job-management workflow diagram template; whiteboard and markers. | Instructor rubric for the email/cloud exercise: must score 80% or higher on clarity, professionalism, and accuracy of information; Acrobat proofing submission reviewed—correct dimension measurement and at least one valid flagged comment required to pass; workflow map presentation assessed pass/fail by instructor on logical sequence and correct identification of at least four handoff points. |
| 7 | Career Readiness and Professional Portfolio | 24 | field | Students will build a complete entry-level career portfolio—including a trade-specific resume, a professional goal statement, and a documented skills checklist—and conduct a mock job interview, receiving scored feedback from an industry guest or instructor playing the role of a hiring manager. |
| Resume templates (trade-specific, instructor-provided); skills checklist aligned to PIA/Printing United Alliance competency areas and 3M Preferred Installer knowledge domains; peer-review forms; guest speaker handout; mock interview question bank; scoring rubric; computers for word processing. | Portfolio submitted as a digital folder; resume must include all required sections and score 80% or higher on instructor rubric (content accuracy, formatting, relevance); goal statement must reference at least two specific credentials or skills from this program; mock interview must score 75% or higher on the rubric to pass; students scoring below either threshold revise and resubmit within one week. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OSHA 10 and Safety Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 70% on OSHA provider module quizzes (required for OSHA 10 card); 80% on instructor-written safety and SDS exam | A two-part written assessment covering OSHA General Industry hazard categories, lockout/tagout procedures, GHS hazard communication, SDS interpretation, and PPE selection as applied to printing and signage shop conditions. Part one is the required OSHA 10 provider assessment; part two is a 40-question instructor-written exam with scenario-based questions drawn directly from the shop environment, mapped to the OSHA knowledge areas tested in the Printing United Alliance certification framework. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Trade Math and Technical Reading Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% overall; no single section below 75% | A 50-question timed written exam (90 minutes) covering unit conversions, scale calculations, substrate area estimation, ink-coverage math, basic job costing, and comprehension questions drawn from a sample SDS and a manufacturer installation guide. Questions are weighted equally across math and reading sections, and all calculation answers must fall within 2% of the correct value to receive credit. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Career Portfolio Project | Project | 25% | 80% on the portfolio rubric; all three components (resume, goal statement, skills checklist) must be present and complete | Students submit a complete digital career portfolio consisting of a trade-specific resume, a professional goal statement of 200–300 words, and a self-assessed skills checklist cross-referenced to Printing United Alliance competency areas and 3M Preferred Installer knowledge domains. The portfolio is scored by the instructor on a rubric evaluating accuracy, completeness, professional presentation, and alignment to industry entry-level expectations. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Safety and Career Readiness Oral Defense | Oral / panel | 25% | 75% on the oral defense rubric; must correctly answer all critical safety questions (those marked safety-critical receive a pass/fail override) | Each student participates in a 15-minute oral session with the instructor and, where available, an industry panel member. The student is asked five questions drawn from the course content—at least two on safety procedures (hazard identification, LOTO, or emergency response) and at least one on career readiness (how they would handle a workplace scenario). Responses are scored on accuracy, depth, and professional communication; any incorrect answer to a safety-critical question requires a remediation and a second attempt before the student advances to Course 2. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
TEC-PRIN79-02 Trade course
Digital & Offset Print Production
73 hr · $875 COMPLIMENTARY
Students develop hands-on competency in both digital (toner and inkjet) and offset lithographic printing processes, covering press setup, substrate selection, color management, and quality control. Emphasis is placed on understanding how each process is chosen for a given job, how to operate equipment safely, and how to evaluate printed output against industry-standard specifications. Lesson content maps directly to Printing United Alliance certification exam domains covering pressroom operations, color, and substrate handling.
Outcomes- Set up and operate a sheetfed digital press and a small-format offset press to produce a job within specified color tolerance, demonstrating correct makeready procedure from job ticket to finished sheet.
- Select the appropriate printing process (digital vs. offset) for a given job based on run length, substrate, color requirements, and turnaround time.
- Perform and document a basic color calibration workflow including ICC profile selection, soft proofing, and output verification using a densitometer or spectrophotometer.
- Identify and correct common print defects—including hickeys, ghosting, dot gain, banding, and misregister—by adjusting press controls or digital RIP settings.
- Apply all required PPE, lockout/tagout procedures, and chemical safety practices (SDS review, ventilation, waste disposal) when operating inks, fountain solutions, and cleaning solvents.
- Read and execute a production job ticket, record press log data, and communicate job status using standard shop terminology.
Course text
Students develop hands-on competency in both digital (toner and inkjet) and offset lithographic printing processes, covering press setup, substrate selection, color management, and quality control. Emphasis is placed on understanding how each process is chosen for a given job, how to operate equipment safely, and how to evaluate printed output against industry-standard specifications. Lesson content maps directly to Printing United Alliance certification exam domains covering pressroom operations, color, and substrate handling.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Printing Processes: How Digital and Offset Work; Press Safety, Chemicals, and Lockout/Tagout; Substrates, Inks, and Consumables; Digital Press Operation and Color Management; Offset Press Operation and Quality Control; Job Workflow, Estimating Basics, and Industry Communication.
What competent looks like. Set up and operate a sheetfed digital press and a small-format offset press to produce a job within specified color tolerance, demonstrating correct makeready procedure from job ticket to finished sheet. Select the appropriate printing process (digital vs. offset) for a given job based on run length, substrate, color requirements, and turnaround time. Perform and document a basic color calibration workflow including ICC profile selection, soft proofing, and output verification using a densitometer or spectrophotometer. Identify and correct common print defects—including hickeys, ghosting, dot gain, banding, and misregister—by adjusting press controls or digital RIP settings. Apply all required PPE, lockout/tagout procedures, and chemical safety practices (SDS review, ventilation, waste disposal) when operating inks, fountain solutions, and cleaning solvents. Read and execute a production job ticket, record press log data, and communicate job status using standard shop terminology.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Printing Processes: How Digital and Offset Work | 10 | theory | Students will compare digital (electrophotographic and inkjet) and offset lithographic printing principles and match each process to appropriate job scenarios based on run length, substrate, and cost. |
| Whiteboard, projector, process diagram handouts, sample printed pieces (offset and digital), Printing United Alliance study materials, job-scenario card set | Written quiz of 20 multiple-choice and short-answer questions on process principles and selection criteria; pass mark 75% correct. |
| 2 | Press Safety, Chemicals, and Lockout/Tagout | 8 | theory | Students will identify all hazardous materials in a typical pressroom, locate and read an SDS, don correct PPE for each task, and perform a lockout/tagout procedure on a designated energy source before any hands-on press work begins. |
| SDS binders for all shop chemicals, PPE kit (assorted), lockout/tagout station with personal locks and hasp, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference handout, ventilation map of pressroom | Instructor observes each student complete the full six-step lockout/tagout sequence without prompting; any deviation in sequence is an automatic retest. Written SDS quiz requires 80% correct identification of hazard categories and PPE selections. |
| 3 | Substrates, Inks, and Consumables | 10 | demo | Students will identify common paper grades, coatings, and non-paper substrates used in commercial print, and explain how substrate choice affects ink adhesion, dot gain, and color output on both digital and offset presses. |
| Substrate sample set (minimum 20 types), 10x loupe, densitometer, printed test targets, ink sample jars (labeled for safety), ink chemistry matching worksheet, Printing United Alliance substrate reference chart | Students correctly classify at least 16 of 20 unmarked substrates and score 75% on the ink chemistry matching worksheet; density table reviewed by instructor for plausible values. |
| 4 | Digital Press Operation and Color Management | 18 | lab | Students will perform a complete digital press makeready—including media loading, profile selection, RIP job submission, calibration check, and print quality verification—producing a finished piece within a Delta-E tolerance specified by the job ticket. |
| Production digital press (sheetfed toner or inkjet, appropriate to shop), RIP workstation, ICC profiles library, coated and uncoated substrates, spectrophotometer, press log forms, PDF test files, defect reference chart from Printing United Alliance study materials | All color patches on the student's 25-sheet run must read Delta-E ≤ 5 against aim values on at least 80% of measurements; all five defects must be correctly named and corrected within one adjustment attempt; press log must be complete and legible. |
| 5 | Offset Press Operation and Quality Control | 18 | lab | Students will make ready a sheetfed offset press—including plate mounting, ink/water balance setup, impression adjustment, and registration—and produce a run of acceptable quality verified by densitometry and visual inspection against industry quality standards. |
| Sheetfed offset press (single- or two-color), pre-burned offset plates for student use, offset ink set (CMYK), fountain solution, blanket wash solvent, nitrile gloves, densitometer, control strip targets, press control chart forms, loupe, ISO 12647-2 reference handout (process color tolerances) | Solid ink density readings must fall within ±0.10 of aim density on at least four of five control strip pulls; dot gain at 50% must be within ±5 percentage points of the target; fewer than 3 hickeys per sheet on the final 20-sheet sample; press log complete with every pull recorded. |
| 6 | Job Workflow, Estimating Basics, and Industry Communication | 9 | practice | Students will trace a print job from client brief through job ticket, process selection, press scheduling, and quality sign-off, and use correct industry terminology to communicate job status and change requests in written and verbal formats. |
| Sample job tickets (set of 10 with planted errors), paper price schedule handout, press rate calculation worksheet, CSR memo template, role-play scenario cards, industry glossary from Printing United Alliance study materials | Student identifies and correctly annotates at least 8 of 10 job ticket errors; estimating worksheet calculations are arithmetically correct and recommendation paragraph includes cost crossover rationale; instructor evaluates role-play on a 4-point rubric (accuracy, terminology, professionalism, documentation) with a minimum score of 3 on each dimension. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital & Offset Print Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (38 of 50 questions) | A 50-question written exam covering printing process principles, substrate and ink selection, color management terminology, defect identification, press controls, and job workflow as taught in Lessons 1, 3, and 6; question formats mirror Printing United Alliance certification exam style (multiple choice and short answer). Students who score below 75% complete a targeted review and retest once. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Press Makeready and Production Run Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Instructor-scored rubric total of 80% or higher across all criteria; any critical safety failure results in immediate stop and mandatory retest | Each student independently performs a complete digital press makeready and a complete offset press makeready from a supplied job ticket, producing a saleable run of 50 sheets on each press; the instructor scores the demonstration using a structured rubric covering sequence accuracy, quality of setup, measured color and density results, and time on task. This assessment maps directly to Printing United Alliance pressroom operations exam domains. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Press Log and Quality Control Lab Log | Log | 15% | All required entries present and legible; density and Delta-E values recorded for every required pull; narrative defect descriptions complete for at least 5 of 6 correction exercises; overall completeness score of 80% | Students submit the cumulative press log maintained across Lessons 4 and 5, including all control strip density readings, Delta-E measurements, defect identification notes, and corrective action records; the log is evaluated for completeness, accuracy of recorded values, and quality of the written defect analysis notes. A complete and accurate log demonstrates the documentation habit required for ISO 12647-compliant production environments. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Pressroom Safety and Hazardous Materials Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% correct completion of the lockout/tagout sequence; SDS summary forms for all four chemicals complete with no critical omissions (health hazard, PPE, disposal); PPE selection correct for all six tasks—any critical safety error requires immediate remediation and recheck before student may continue in the course | Drawing directly from Lesson 2 activities, the instructor uses a structured observation checklist to verify that each student can independently perform lockout/tagout on the designated press energy isolation point, select and don correct PPE for a stated pressroom task, and locate and interpret SDS information for a chemical handed to them without prior notice. This check must be passed before the student sits the skills demonstration assessment. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-03 Trade course
Wide-Format & UV Printing
73 hr · $875 COMPLIMENTARY
Students operate wide-format inkjet printers and UV-curable flatbed printers to produce banners, backlit graphics, rigid substrates, and specialty prints to industry-standard color and quality specifications. Lessons cover machine setup, RIP workflow, substrate handling, ink chemistry, color calibration, finishing, and safe chemical management. Competencies map directly to PIA/Printing United Alliance certification domains covering digital print production and color management.
Outcomes- Set up, calibrate, and operate a wide-format solvent or latex inkjet printer to produce output that meets a customer-supplied color proof within an acceptable Delta-E tolerance.
- Configure and operate a UV-curable flatbed printer, including Z-axis clearance setting, jig construction, and ink-cure verification, without producing a mis-print or cure failure.
- Build and apply an ICC output profile using a spectrophotometer and RIP software, and document the profiling process in a calibration log.
- Select the correct substrate, ink set, and media profile for a given job specification, citing adhesion, outgassing, and durability requirements.
- Perform daily, weekly, and monthly preventive maintenance on wide-format and UV printers, including printhead nozzle checks, capping station cleaning, and UV lamp inspection.
- Handle, store, and dispose of solvent, latex, and UV inks and cleaning agents in compliance with SDS requirements and applicable OSHA Hazard Communication standards.
Course text
Students operate wide-format inkjet printers and UV-curable flatbed printers to produce banners, backlit graphics, rigid substrates, and specialty prints to industry-standard color and quality specifications. Lessons cover machine setup, RIP workflow, substrate handling, ink chemistry, color calibration, finishing, and safe chemical management. Competencies map directly to PIA/Printing United Alliance certification domains covering digital print production and color management.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Wide-Format Technology Overview & Shop Safety; RIP Software, Color Management & ICC Profiling; Wide-Format Printer Operation & Media Handling; UV-Curable Flatbed Printer Operation & Substrate Preparation; Preventive Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Ink Management; Production Workflow Integration & Quality Control.
What competent looks like. Set up, calibrate, and operate a wide-format solvent or latex inkjet printer to produce output that meets a customer-supplied color proof within an acceptable Delta-E tolerance. Configure and operate a UV-curable flatbed printer, including Z-axis clearance setting, jig construction, and ink-cure verification, without producing a mis-print or cure failure. Build and apply an ICC output profile using a spectrophotometer and RIP software, and document the profiling process in a calibration log. Select the correct substrate, ink set, and media profile for a given job specification, citing adhesion, outgassing, and durability requirements. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly preventive maintenance on wide-format and UV printers, including printhead nozzle checks, capping station cleaning, and UV lamp inspection. Handle, store, and dispose of solvent, latex, and UV inks and cleaning agents in compliance with SDS requirements and applicable OSHA Hazard Communication standards.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wide-Format Technology Overview & Shop Safety | 10 | theory | Students will identify the major categories of wide-format inkjet technology—aqueous, solvent, latex, and UV-curable—and demonstrate correct PPE selection and SDS lookup for each ink type before touching any equipment. |
| Manufacturer SDS sheets for eco-solvent, latex, and UV inks; OSHA HazCom poster; nitrile gloves, safety glasses, chemical-splash goggles, respirator cartridges (organic vapor); wide-format printer overview video from PIA/Printing United resource library; blank shop floor diagram template. | Students score 80% or higher on a 20-question written quiz covering ink categories, ventilation requirements, correct PPE for each ink type, and SDS section identification; any missed safety item requires immediate re-instruction before lab access is granted. |
| 2 | RIP Software, Color Management & ICC Profiling | 14 | demo | Students will configure a job in a professional RIP application, load an existing ICC output profile, and explain how the RIP converts RGB or CMYK source data to device ink values for a specific substrate-and-ink combination. |
| Wide-format printer with current RIP license; spectrophotometer (X-Rite i1Pro or equivalent) and profiling software; IT8 or i1Profiler measurement target; sample TIFF images with embedded profiles; RIP interface diagram worksheet; lab log binders. | Each student submits an annotated RIP interface diagram with all major controls correctly labeled (pass = 80% accurate) and a lab-log entry documenting the profiling steps in correct sequence; instructor initials the log entry as satisfactory before the student proceeds to Lesson 3. |
| 3 | Wide-Format Printer Operation & Media Handling | 16 | lab | Students will load roll media, run a nozzle-check pattern, adjust media feed compensation, and produce a full-bleed banner print that is free of banding, mis-registration, and color deviation beyond an acceptable Delta-E threshold from the approved proof. |
| Wide-format solvent or latex inkjet printer (54-inch or wider); banner material and self-adhesive vinyl rolls; RIP workstation; spectrophotometer; nozzle-check reference sheets; trimmer or rail cutter; measuring tape; lab log binders; manufacturer operator manual. | Finished banner must be free of visible banding (confirmed by instructor visual check), have clean full-bleed edges within 2 mm, and three spot-color measurements must each return a Delta-E of 5 or lower against the proof; lab log entry for the session must be signed off by the instructor. |
| 4 | UV-Curable Flatbed Printer Operation & Substrate Preparation | 14 | lab | Students will set the Z-axis platen clearance for two rigid substrates of different thicknesses, build a registration jig, print a UV spot-gloss layer over a previously printed image, and verify full ink cure using a standard scratch test. |
| UV-curable flatbed printer; digital calipers; foam board, PVC sheet, and aluminum composite panel samples; MDF jig stock; double-sided tape; clear UV ink set; safety glasses and UV-blocking safety glasses rated for UV-A/UV-B exposure; nitrile gloves; manufacturer Z-axis setup guide; lab log binders. | Registration jig print must align within 1 mm confirmed by instructor measurement; scratch test must show no ink lift on the cured graphic; lab log must include caliper measurements, Z-axis settings, cure test photos, and instructor sign-off; any cure failure requires a corrective-action entry before the lesson is marked complete. |
| 5 | Preventive Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Ink Management | 11 | practice | Students will complete a full scheduled preventive-maintenance cycle on both a wide-format roll printer and a UV flatbed, diagnose a seeded print-quality defect from a symptom list, and correctly label and store bulk ink following SDS secondary-container requirements. |
| Wide-format roll printer and UV flatbed printer; manufacturer PM log forms; capping station cleaning swabs, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) wipes, encoder cleaning solution; bulk ink bottles; secondary-container label blanks and HazCom pictogram reference sheet; nitrile gloves, safety glasses; fault-print handout set; lab log binders. | PM log form must have every item checked and any finding noted, with instructor co-signature confirming the seeded defect was found and corrected; defect diagnosis worksheet must score 80% or higher (at least 3 of 4 correct with correct corrective actions); secondary-container label must include all required elements and be initialed as correct by the instructor. |
| 6 | Production Workflow Integration & Quality Control | 8 | practice | Students will manage a simulated two-job production queue—one wide-format roll job and one UV flatbed job—from file intake through finished output, completing a written quality-control inspection checklist and correcting at least one identified defect before customer delivery. |
| Wide-format roll printer and UV flatbed printer; RIP workstation; two mock job tickets with customer files (PDF and TIFF); preflight checklist template; QC inspection checklist; light booth; spectrophotometer; rail cutter; lab log binders. | Both finished prints must pass all items on the QC checklist (color Delta-E ≤ 5, no visible banding, trim within 2 mm, UV cure passes scratch and tape tests); QC form must be fully completed with signatures; lab log entry for the session must document any defect found, its root cause, and the corrective action taken; instructor signs off before the student may submit the prints as the lesson artifact. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wide-Format & UV Technology Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (30 of 40 questions correct); any question touching a safety or regulatory topic must be answered correctly or the student completes targeted re-instruction before retaking only those items. | A 40-question closed-book written exam covering ink technology categories, RIP workflow, ICC color management concepts, UV cure chemistry, substrate selection criteria, preventive maintenance schedules, and OSHA HazCom requirements for the inks used in this course. Questions include multiple-choice, true/false, and two short-answer items requiring students to explain a cause-effect relationship in print quality. Exam content maps to PIA/Printing United Alliance certification domains for digital print production and color management. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Production Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Student must meet all five pass criteria simultaneously: correct Z-axis setting confirmed by instructor, registration within 1 mm, Delta-E ≤ 5 on three spot-color patches, cure passes scratch and tape tests, and QC form fully completed; failure on any single criterion requires one remediation attempt on that specific task. | Working independently under timed conditions, each student sets up the UV flatbed for a specified rigid substrate, builds a registration jig, sends a two-layer job (color image plus spot gloss) through the RIP, prints both layers, and completes a full QC inspection of the finished piece. The instructor observes the entire sequence and scores against a five-criterion rubric. This demonstration maps to PIA/Printing United Alliance certification performance areas for digital print production and substrate handling. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | All six lesson entries present and instructor-initialed; each entry must include the required photographs or printed test outputs, all measurements recorded with units, any defect found and its corrective action, and a legible student signature; a missing entry or unsigned entry lowers the score and requires the student to complete a makeup log before the final exam. | Students submit the complete lab log maintained across all six lessons of the course. The log is evaluated for completeness, accuracy of recorded measurements, quality of defect documentation, and evidence of corrective action taken. A satisfactory log demonstrates that the student engaged in reflective practice throughout the course and supports the calibration and maintenance record-keeping skills required in a professional print shop. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Chemical Safety & PPE Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | Pass is defined as zero critical errors; a critical error is any of the following: incorrect PPE selected for the ink type being handled, missing or incorrect SDS secondary-container label element, inability to locate the eyewash station within 10 seconds, or failure to identify the correct fire-extinguisher class for a UV ink fire scenario; one non-critical error (such as a procedural sequence misstep) results in immediate re-instruction and a same-day recheck. | The instructor administers a direct observation check during Lesson 5 or immediately afterward: the student dons PPE appropriate to eco-solvent ink handling, completes a secondary-container label from memory, locates the eyewash station and spill kit, and verbally describes first-aid steps for eye contact with UV ink as stated on its SDS. This check maps to OSHA HazCom compliance and is a prerequisite for externship approval; a student who does not achieve a pass is barred from the externship until a successful recheck is documented. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-04 Trade course
Vinyl & Wraps: Application, Vehicle Graphics, and Fleet Lettering
73 hr · $875 COMPLIMENTARY
Students develop hands-on proficiency in pressure-sensitive vinyl selection, surface preparation, flat and contour application, and full vehicle wrap installation using industry-standard tools and cast/calendered films. Lessons integrate color management, substrate compatibility, and professional finishing techniques aligned with 3M Preferred Installer and PIA/Printing United certification competencies. Safety practice, quality inspection, and customer-ready workmanship standards are emphasized throughout.
Outcomes- Select the correct vinyl film type (cast, calendered, air-egress, reflective) for a given substrate and end-use application, citing manufacturer specifications.
- Prepare surfaces using the correct solvent-based cleaning sequence, temperature check, and flash-off time before applying vinyl to flat panels and vehicle body sections.
- Apply large-format vinyl graphics to flat substrates and compound-curved vehicle surfaces with no visible air bubbles, tunneling, or edge lift after a 24-hour inspection period.
- Execute a complete two-panel vehicle wrap segment—including overlap, seam placement, and post-heat finishing—meeting a shop-standard quality checklist with fewer than three defects.
- Troubleshoot and correct common application failures (silvering, fish-eyes, stretch distortion, premature edge lift) using manufacturer-approved remediation techniques.
- Follow all relevant PPE, chemical-handling, and heat-tool lockout/tagout procedures during every practical session, achieving a 100% safety-check pass rate.
Course text
Students develop hands-on proficiency in pressure-sensitive vinyl selection, surface preparation, flat and contour application, and full vehicle wrap installation using industry-standard tools and cast/calendered films. Lessons integrate color management, substrate compatibility, and professional finishing techniques aligned with 3M Preferred Installer and PIA/Printing United certification competencies. Safety practice, quality inspection, and customer-ready workmanship standards are emphasized throughout.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Vinyl Fundamentals: Film Types, Adhesives, and Substrate Compatibility; Surface Preparation and the Cleaning Sequence; Flat Application: Squeegee Technique, Wet and Dry Methods; Contour Wrapping: Compound Curves, Heat Forming, and Seam Placement; Vehicle Wrap Planning, Design Handoff, and Print-to-Install Workflow; Wrap Removal, Remediation, and Professional Finishing.
What competent looks like. Select the correct vinyl film type (cast, calendered, air-egress, reflective) for a given substrate and end-use application, citing manufacturer specifications. Prepare surfaces using the correct solvent-based cleaning sequence, temperature check, and flash-off time before applying vinyl to flat panels and vehicle body sections. Apply large-format vinyl graphics to flat substrates and compound-curved vehicle surfaces with no visible air bubbles, tunneling, or edge lift after a 24-hour inspection period. Execute a complete two-panel vehicle wrap segment—including overlap, seam placement, and post-heat finishing—meeting a shop-standard quality checklist with fewer than three defects. Troubleshoot and correct common application failures (silvering, fish-eyes, stretch distortion, premature edge lift) using manufacturer-approved remediation techniques. Follow all relevant PPE, chemical-handling, and heat-tool lockout/tagout procedures during every practical session, achieving a 100% safety-check pass rate.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vinyl Fundamentals: Film Types, Adhesives, and Substrate Compatibility | 10 | theory | Students will classify cast, calendered, specialty, and reflective vinyl films by construction, adhesive type, and correct end-use, and match each to a given substrate and application environment. |
| Vinyl film sample kits (cast, calendered, specialty, reflective), 3M 1080 Series product data sheets, Avery Dennison MPI series data sheets, PDAA (Professional Decal Application Alliance) reference guide, whiteboard, projector | 10-item written matching quiz: students match film type to scenario; pass = 80% (8/10 correct). Instructor reviews written justifications from the case study for completeness. |
| 2 | Surface Preparation and the Cleaning Sequence | 10 | demo | Students will demonstrate the full two-step IPA/water cleaning sequence and surface temperature verification on a painted metal panel, identifying at least three contamination sources that cause adhesion failure. |
| Isopropyl alcohol (70% and 91%), denatured alcohol, lint-free cloths, infrared thermometer, UV contamination inspection light, 18×24-inch aluminum composite and painted steel test panels, corrugated plastic panels, OSHA SDS for all solvents, nitrile gloves, safety glasses | Instructor observes and scores each student's cleaning demonstration using a 10-point checklist (correct PPE, sequence order, wipe pattern, flash-off, temp read); pass = 8/10. Water-break test must confirm a clean surface. |
| 3 | Flat Application: Squeegee Technique, Wet and Dry Methods | 13 | lab | Students will apply a 24×36-inch vinyl graphic to a flat substrate using both wet and dry methods, achieving a bubble-free, edge-lift-free result that passes a 24-hour inspection. |
| 24×36-inch cast and calendered vinyl graphics (pre-printed), aluminum composite panels, application fluid (commercial pre-mix and DIY formula), Olfa knife, squeegees (hard, medium, felt-edge), heat gun with thermometer, infrared thermometer, application tape, lab notebooks, shop quality checklist, nitrile gloves, safety glasses | 24-hour post-application inspection using shop quality checklist: zero air bubbles larger than 3mm, zero edge lift along any edge, clean knife cuts at corners; pass = all three criteria met. Lab notebook entry must be complete. |
| 4 | Contour Wrapping: Compound Curves, Heat Forming, and Seam Placement | 18 | lab | Students will wrap a compound-curved vehicle body panel—including a recessed channel and a convex radius—using heat-forming and bridging techniques, placing seams in accepted low-visibility positions and completing post-heat finishing. |
| Cast wrap vinyl (3M 1080 or equivalent), practice vehicle door panels and hood, heat guns (variable temperature), infrared thermometer, squeegees with buffer felt, Olfa knives and replaceable blades, seam tape, door-handle foam plug, radius block, defect map worksheet, nitrile gloves, safety glasses, knee pads | Instructor inspects completed panel using a 15-point shop quality rubric: seam placed in accepted location, no tunnel or lift along any curve, post-heat confirmed by temperature log; pass = 12/15 points. Both partners must demonstrate each technique independently. |
| 5 | Vehicle Wrap Planning, Design Handoff, and Print-to-Install Workflow | 12 | theory | Students will produce a wrap layout plan—including panel measurements, bleed zones, seam map, and a material estimate—for a compact vehicle using a vehicle template and a client design file. |
| Flexible measuring tape, standardized vehicle measurement forms, laptop with Adobe Illustrator (or equivalent), vehicle wrap templates (free industry templates), client design sample file, distributor price sheet, calculator, projector for instructor review | Instructor reviews layout file and estimate form: bleed set correctly, seam map logical, material quantity within 10% of instructor-calculated benchmark, and cost estimate complete; pass = all four criteria met. Material math must show work. |
| 6 | Wrap Removal, Remediation, and Professional Finishing | 10 | practice | Students will remove an aged vinyl graphic from a painted substrate without surface damage using heat and the correct angle, then clean all adhesive residue and return the surface to pre-wrap condition verified by visual and tactile inspection. |
| Aged vinyl test panels (minimum 72-hour dwell), heat gun, infrared thermometer, plastic and brass squeegees, plastic trim tools, citrus-based adhesive remover, IPA wipes, lint-free cloths, SDS for all chemicals, work light, remediation log form, nitrile gloves, safety glasses | Instructor inspects removed panel under work light: zero visible clearcoat scratches, zero adhesive residue detected by tactile wipe; pass = both criteria met. Remediation log must document diagnosis, technique chosen, and outcome for all three panels. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl & Wraps Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% (30/40 items correct) | A 40-item written exam covering film classification, adhesive chemistry, substrate compatibility, surface preparation sequences, application temperature windows, seam placement rules, material estimating math, and removal procedures, mapped to PIA/Printing United and 3M Preferred Installer knowledge domains. Items include multiple-choice, true/false, and short-answer calculation problems. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| End-to-End Wrap Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Pass requires 80% on a 25-point instructor rubric (20/25 points); all safety criteria must be met independently of rubric score | Working within a timed session, each student independently cleans a vehicle panel, applies a pre-printed cast vinyl graphic to a compound-curved surface, post-heats all edges and recesses to the specified temperature, and presents the finished panel for inspection at 24 hours. The instructor scores surface preparation, film tension, seam placement, heat management, post-heat completion, and overall cosmetic quality using the shop rubric, directly assessing 3M Preferred Installer performance standards. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Application Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | All six lesson lab notebook entries submitted and complete; average score of 80% across instructor-scored entry rubrics | Students maintain a running lab notebook—one documented entry per lesson that includes date, materials used, process steps followed, measurements recorded, defects observed, and remediation taken. The portfolio is reviewed at course end for completeness, accuracy of recorded data, and evidence that the student connected observations to manufacturer specifications and course theory. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and Hazard-Control Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on all critical safety behaviors; any single critical failure requires immediate remediation and re-check before the student may continue unsupervised lab work | An unannounced spot-check conducted during one of the lab sessions verifies that the student: selects and dons correct PPE (nitrile gloves, safety glasses) before handling solvents; references the SDS before using any new chemical; uses the heat gun only with the tip guard in place and rests it in the stand when not in hand; and follows the waste-disposal procedure for solvent-soaked cloths. The evaluator uses a binary yes/no checklist aligned with OSHA general industry hazard communication and PPE standards. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-05 Trade course
Sign Fabrication & Installation
73 hr · $875 COMPLIMENTARY
Students fabricate dimensional, flat-panel, and illuminated signs from aluminum composite, HDU foam, acrylic, and steel substrates using industry-standard cutting, routing, welding, and finishing equipment. Lessons progress from substrate selection and shop-safety setup through structural anchoring, electrical rough-in for LED modules, and post/wall-mount installation in compliance with applicable building and electrical codes. Credential exam areas covered include substrate knowledge, fabrication processes, installation methods, and safety protocols tested on the PIA/Printing United Certification.
Outcomes- Select appropriate substrates and hardware for a given sign specification and environment, justifying choices in writing.
- Safely operate a CNC router, plasma/laser cutter, and metal brake to fabricate sign blanks and dimensional letters to print-ready tolerances.
- Assemble and finish channel letters, cabinet signs, and flat-panel monument faces using correct adhesives, welds, and surface coatings.
- Rough-in low-voltage LED modules, verify polarity and continuity with a multimeter, and identify when a licensed electrician is required for line-voltage work.
- Anchor wall-mounted, post-mounted, and suspended signs to structural members using manufacturer-specified fasteners, verifying load ratings against sign weight.
- Execute and document a full sign installation using a pre-install safety checklist, fall-protection plan, and as-built record that meets 3M Preferred Installer documentation standards.
Course text
Students fabricate dimensional, flat-panel, and illuminated signs from aluminum composite, HDU foam, acrylic, and steel substrates using industry-standard cutting, routing, welding, and finishing equipment. Lessons progress from substrate selection and shop-safety setup through structural anchoring, electrical rough-in for LED modules, and post/wall-mount installation in compliance with applicable building and electrical codes. Credential exam areas covered include substrate knowledge, fabrication processes, installation methods, and safety protocols tested on the PIA/Printing United Certification.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Substrates, Hardware, and Shop Safety Setup; CNC Routing, Metal Braking, and Dimensional Lettering; Sign Cabinet Assembly and Surface Finishing; LED Module Integration and Electrical Safety; Structural Anchoring: Wall, Post, and Suspended Mounts; Full Install Simulation: Planning, Fall Protection, and As-Built Documentation.
What competent looks like. Select appropriate substrates and hardware for a given sign specification and environment, justifying choices in writing. Safely operate a CNC router, plasma/laser cutter, and metal brake to fabricate sign blanks and dimensional letters to print-ready tolerances. Assemble and finish channel letters, cabinet signs, and flat-panel monument faces using correct adhesives, welds, and surface coatings. Rough-in low-voltage LED modules, verify polarity and continuity with a multimeter, and identify when a licensed electrician is required for line-voltage work. Anchor wall-mounted, post-mounted, and suspended signs to structural members using manufacturer-specified fasteners, verifying load ratings against sign weight. Execute and document a full sign installation using a pre-install safety checklist, fall-protection plan, and as-built record that meets 3M Preferred Installer documentation standards.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Substrates, Hardware, and Shop Safety Setup | 10 | theory | Students identify at least eight common sign substrates and their hardware, explain OSHA Hazard Communication requirements for shop chemicals, and describe lockout/tagout procedures for fabrication equipment. |
| Substrate sample kit (12 materials), SDS binder for all shop chemicals, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 lockout/tagout standard, half-face respirator with organic-vapor and P100 cartridges, safety glasses, nitrile gloves, structured SDS worksheet, fabrication shop tour checklist | Written substrate-matching quiz scored ≥ 80 % correct; LOTO procedure written from memory with all steps present and in correct order (pass = 100 % of critical steps); instructor verifies correct respirator donning before student enters chemical areas. |
| 2 | CNC Routing, Metal Braking, and Dimensional Lettering | 15 | lab | Students set up and run a CNC router to cut aluminum composite panel blanks and rout acrylic dimensional letters to within ±0.031 in. of design dimensions, then form a three-sided aluminum channel-letter return on a metal brake. |
| CNC router with dust collection and full guarding, compression-spiral and O-flute router bits, CAM software (shop-installed), 4×8 ft. ACM and 1/4 in. cast acrylic sheet, 0.040 in. aluminum coil, metal brake (at least 48 in. bed), digital calipers, combination square, two-part acrylic adhesive, clamps and masking tape, face shield, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves, bit manufacturer's feed/speed chart | All five measured dimensions on CNC-cut parts within ±0.031 in. of drawing; brake-formed channel-letter return at 90 ° ± 1 ° on all corners (verified with combination square); adhesive bond passes hand-pull test after cure with no delamination—all three criteria must be met to pass. |
| 3 | Sign Cabinet Assembly and Surface Finishing | 12 | lab | Students assemble a single-face illuminated sign cabinet from pre-cut ACM panels, apply a primer coat and two-part polyurethane topcoat meeting color-match standards, and install a translucent face skin without visible air pockets or wrinkles. |
| Pre-cut ACM panels, aluminum angle extrusion, structural pop rivets and rivet gun, cordless drill, silicone caulk and caulk gun, self-etching primer, two-part polyurethane paint, calibrated mixing cups, HVLP spray gun with regulator, dry-film-thickness gauge, polycarbonate face material, IPA cleaner, panel saw, measuring tape, combination square, full-face respirator with appropriate cartridges, spray booth or cross-draft ventilation, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.94 spray-finishing reference | Cabinet diagonal measurements within 1/8 in. (square); dry film thickness 2–4 mils per coat confirmed by gauge; face skin inspected under backlighting with zero visible air pockets > 1/2 in. diameter and zero edge lift—all three criteria required to pass. |
| 4 | LED Module Integration and Electrical Safety | 10 | demo | Students install low-voltage LED strip modules inside a channel-letter or cabinet, verify correct polarity and continuity with a multimeter, and accurately explain which tasks legally require a licensed electrician. |
| 12 V DC LED strip modules, UL-listed class-2 power supply, primary conductor wire (appropriate gauge per product specs), polarity-correct quick connectors, digital multimeter, wire strippers, electrical tape, zip ties, LED module product data sheet, NEC overview reference (current edition, relevant low-voltage sections), whiteboard for wiring sketch, pre-assembled channel-letter returns | Calculated wattage and power supply selection verified correct by instructor before wiring; multimeter reading at far-end LED run within module's specified voltage operating range; student correctly identifies all three electrical-scope scenarios in discussion with no errors regarding line-voltage work requiring a licensed electrician—all three criteria required to pass. |
| 5 | Structural Anchoring: Wall, Post, and Suspended Mounts | 14 | field | Students locate structural anchoring points using a stud finder and site drawings, select fasteners appropriate to substrate (wood stud, concrete masonry, metal stud) and sign load, and install wall-mounted and post-mounted sign assemblies that pass a load-verification pull test. |
| Stud finder, 4 ft. level, measuring tape, cordless hammer drill, brad-point and carbide-tipped bits, self-tapping screws, lag screws, sleeve anchors, toggle bolts, standoff mounts, calibrated torque wrench, practice wall section (wood stud, metal stud, masonry), concrete-bucket post-sleeve assembly, weighted sign blank (20–30 lb.), fastener manufacturer load tables, wind-pressure reference table, 3M Preferred Installer installation checklist template, hard hat, safety glasses, gloves | Hardware spec sheet approved by instructor before drilling; installed sign blank plumb and level within 1/8 in. over 48 in. (verified with level); torqued fasteners confirmed at specified torque with calibrated wrench and recorded on checklist; simulated field inspection checklist completed with no critical items missed—all criteria required to pass. |
| 6 | Full Install Simulation: Planning, Fall Protection, and As-Built Documentation | 12 | practice | Students plan and execute a complete simulated sign installation—from pre-install site survey through final as-built documentation—meeting 3M Preferred Installer documentation standards and demonstrating correct fall-protection equipment use at elevated work heights. |
| Scenario packet, JHA form template, 6 ft. and 8 ft. A-frame ladders, full-body harness and shock-absorbing lanyard, personal fall-arrest anchor point (overhead), 4 ft. level, cordless drill, anchor hardware, sign blank assembly, torque wrench, digital camera or smartphone, 3M Preferred Installer job completion form template, PDF compilation software, hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, high-visibility vest | JHA approved by instructor with all critical hazards and controls present; fall-protection checklist scored ≥ 90 % of steps correct (harness fit, lanyard attachment, three-point contact) with zero critical errors; as-built documentation package complete—all required photos, accurate torque values recorded, and job-completion form fully filled in—all criteria required to pass. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sign Fabrication & Installation Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | Score of 75 % or higher; any question relating to electrical scope-of-work or fall-protection must be answered correctly regardless of total score. | A 50-question written exam covering substrate selection, hardware load ratings, CNC and brake-forming theory, LED electrical concepts (low-voltage vs. line-voltage), anchor mechanics, and 3M Preferred Installer documentation requirements, mapped to PIA/Printing United Certification exam content areas for fabrication and installation. Students have 60 minutes; the exam is scored immediately and results are reviewed question-by-question with the instructor. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Fabrication and Installation Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All six scored criteria rated Meets Standard or above on the rubric; any criterion rated Does Not Meet Standard requires a documented remediation and one re-attempt within five business days. | Each student independently fabricates a single dimensional channel letter (routed acrylic face, brake-formed aluminum return, LED strip installed and tested) and mounts it on the practice wall at a specified height using the correct anchor type, plumb and level within tolerance, with a completed as-built form. The evaluator scores substrate handling, CNC cut quality, brake-form accuracy, LED continuity, anchor selection, and documentation using a six-criterion rubric aligned to 3M Preferred Installer performance standards. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log and Process Journal | Log | 15% | Log reviewed at lessons 2, 4, and 6; minimum average score of 80 % across all entries; any missing safety-observation entry requires immediate completion before the student may continue lab work. | Students maintain a running lab log throughout the course, recording for each lab session: the task performed, materials and equipment used, measurements taken and results, any deviation from plan and how it was corrected, and a brief safety observation noting one hazard encountered and the control used. The log serves as evidence for the PIA/Printing United Certification portfolio component and is evaluated for accuracy, completeness, and professional legibility. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100 % of critical safety behaviors observed correctly on all three unannounced checks; a single critical failure (e.g., missing LOTO step, no fall-protection when elevated, incorrect respirator) triggers immediate removal from the activity and a mandatory safety review before return. | The instructor conducts three unannounced walk-through observations during lab and field lessons using a standardized critical-behavior checklist covering LOTO compliance at the CNC router, correct PPE selection and fit (eye, respiratory, and hand protection), and fall-protection equipment use at any height above 4 feet; results are documented and placed in the student's record as evidence for OSHA 10 alignment and 3M Preferred Installer safety requirements. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-06 Trade course
Prepress: File Preparation, Color Management & Proofing
73 hr · $875 COMPLIMENTARY
Students master the complete prepress workflow from customer file intake through color-managed output, covering preflight, imposition, RIP configuration, soft proofing, and contract proofing for offset, wide-format, and digital print devices. Emphasis is placed on industry-standard software (Adobe Creative Suite, Acrobat Pro), ICC color profiles, and the file-quality disciplines that eliminate costly press errors. Lesson content maps directly to PIA/Printing United Certification competencies in digital file preparation and color management.
Outcomes- Perform a complete preflight check on a customer PDF using Adobe Acrobat Pro and industry-standard preflight profiles, identifying and correcting at least five common file errors before releasing to production.
- Build and apply a device-specific ICC color profile to a soft proof, verifying that the displayed result matches a printed contract proof within an acceptable Delta-E tolerance.
- Configure a RIP (raster image processor) with correct resolution, color mode, and media profile settings for at least two different output devices, producing a press-ready file with no RIP errors.
- Construct a multi-page imposition layout using imposition software or Adobe Acrobat, correctly setting bleeds, margins, marks, and page sequence for a saddle-stitch or cut-sheet job.
- Evaluate an analog or digital contract proof against a printed sheet using a densitometer or spectrophotometer, recording density and color readings and documenting conformance or deviation.
- Safely handle, store, and label output media, inks, and chemical proofing supplies in accordance with SDS requirements and shop safety procedures established in Course 1.
Course text
Students master the complete prepress workflow from customer file intake through color-managed output, covering preflight, imposition, RIP configuration, soft proofing, and contract proofing for offset, wide-format, and digital print devices. Emphasis is placed on industry-standard software (Adobe Creative Suite, Acrobat Pro), ICC color profiles, and the file-quality disciplines that eliminate costly press errors. Lesson content maps directly to PIA/Printing United Certification competencies in digital file preparation and color management.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Prepress Workflow & File Standards Overview; Preflight: Identifying and Correcting File Errors; Color Theory, ICC Profiles & Soft Proofing; RIP Configuration & Press-Ready Output; Imposition & Document Assembly; Contract Proofing, Measurement & Job Release.
What competent looks like. Perform a complete preflight check on a customer PDF using Adobe Acrobat Pro and industry-standard preflight profiles, identifying and correcting at least five common file errors before releasing to production. Build and apply a device-specific ICC color profile to a soft proof, verifying that the displayed result matches a printed contract proof within an acceptable Delta-E tolerance. Configure a RIP (raster image processor) with correct resolution, color mode, and media profile settings for at least two different output devices, producing a press-ready file with no RIP errors. Construct a multi-page imposition layout using imposition software or Adobe Acrobat, correctly setting bleeds, margins, marks, and page sequence for a saddle-stitch or cut-sheet job. Evaluate an analog or digital contract proof against a printed sheet using a densitometer or spectrophotometer, recording density and color readings and documenting conformance or deviation. Safely handle, store, and label output media, inks, and chemical proofing supplies in accordance with SDS requirements and shop safety procedures established in Course 1.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepress Workflow & File Standards Overview | 10 | theory | Students will explain the end-to-end prepress workflow—from file intake to press-ready output—and identify the technical specifications (resolution, color mode, bleed, file format) required for offset, digital, and wide-format jobs. |
| Computers with Adobe Acrobat Pro and Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign); sample job files (provided by instructor); current PIA/Printing United file-preparation guidelines; shop job tickets; whiteboard | Exit quiz of 10 multiple-choice questions covering workflow stages, file formats, and technical specifications; students must score 80% or higher to proceed. |
| 2 | Preflight: Identifying and Correcting File Errors | 14 | lab | Students will run an automated preflight profile in Adobe Acrobat Pro on customer-supplied PDFs, identify at least five distinct error categories, and correct or flag each error using Acrobat's preflight repair tools or by returning the file to its source application. |
| Computers with Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and InDesign; six intentionally flawed PDF practice files; custom preflight profile template (.kfp file); lab log forms; PIA/Printing United preflight standards reference; printer for hardcopy documentation | Graded lab log: student must identify 100% of planted errors across the six files and successfully correct or document a corrective action for at least five of them; instructor spot-checks two corrected PDFs with a clean preflight run—pass requires zero critical errors remaining. |
| 3 | Color Theory, ICC Profiles & Soft Proofing | 14 | demo | Students will explain additive and subtractive color models, describe how ICC profiles encode device color behavior, and configure Photoshop and Acrobat soft-proof settings to simulate a specific output device on screen. |
| Computers with Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat Pro; ICC profiles for at least three device/substrate combinations (instructor-provided or manufacturer downloads); color wheel poster; color-managed workflow diagram handout; lab log forms | Soft-proof screenshot with annotation rubric: student must correctly identify the source profile, output profile, rendering intent, and gamut warning in their annotated screenshot; instructor evaluates using a four-point rubric—pass requires 3 of 4 items correct. |
| 4 | RIP Configuration & Press-Ready Output | 13 | lab | Students will configure a RIP (raster image processor) workstation with appropriate resolution, color mode, linearization curve, and media profile for two different output devices, and produce press-ready ripped files with no processing errors. |
| RIP workstation with installed RIP software (EFI Fiery, Onyx, or equivalent shop system); wide-format inkjet printer; digital press or laser proof device; media profiles for at least two substrates; USB drives; lab log forms; RIP manufacturer's operator manual | Instructor inspection of two ripped and printed outputs: both must be free of banding, color breaks, and missing elements; student's reference card must list all required settings correctly; pass requires error-free output on both devices and a complete reference card. |
| 5 | Imposition & Document Assembly | 12 | practice | Students will build an imposition layout for a multi-page saddle-stitched booklet and a gang-run cut-sheet job, correctly setting bleeds, gutters, printer marks, and page sequence so that folded and cut sheets produce correctly ordered, trimmed final pages. |
| Computers with Adobe Acrobat Pro and imposition plug-in (Quite Imposing, Preps, or equivalent); sample multi-page PDF files; laser printer for proofing; ruler; bone folder; guillotine paper cutter; lab log forms; GATF/PIA imposition reference guide | Printed and folded booklet proof reviewed against a rubric: page order must be correct on 100% of pages, bleeds must be present on all four sides, and crop marks must be legible and accurately placed; gang sheet must accommodate all four designs with bleed; pass requires full marks on page order and bleed—any page-order error is a re-do. |
| 6 | Contract Proofing, Measurement & Job Release | 10 | lab | Students will produce a contract proof to a specified color standard, measure density and color values with a spectrophotometer or densitometer, compare results to target values, and complete a job-release checklist documenting conformance before authorizing a job for press. |
| Contract proofing device (inkjet proofer with color-managed RIP); spectrophotometer (e.g., X-Rite eXact or i1Pro) and/or densitometer; color-bar test file; measurement record forms; job-release checklist forms; sample press sheets for comparison; SDS sheets for proofing inks (posted at workstation); lab log | Measurement form and release checklist reviewed by instructor: spectrophotometer readings must be recorded accurately (instructor verifies with a reference measurement); student's pass/fail determination must match the correct answer for at least 8 of 10 color patches; job-release decision must be correctly justified—pass requires 80% patch accuracy and a correctly justified release decision. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepress Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | Score of 75% or higher on a 40-question exam | A closed-book, 40-question multiple-choice and short-answer exam covering prepress workflow stages, file specification requirements, color theory, ICC profile function, RIP settings, imposition logic, and contract proofing standards—mapped to PIA/Printing United Certification competency areas in digital file preparation and color management. Students have 60 minutes to complete the exam. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Preflight & Imposition Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Instructor checklist: all critical steps completed correctly with no press-critical errors remaining in the final file | Each student is given an unfamiliar, intentionally flawed PDF job file and must independently complete a full preflight, correct all critical errors, impose the document to the instructor's stated specification, and submit a press-ready file—all within 90 minutes. The instructor evaluates using a step-by-step checklist; any uncorrected press-critical error (wrong color mode, missing bleed on a bleed job, incorrect page order) results in a re-demonstration. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Prepress Lab Log | Log | 15% | Complete entries for all six lessons, with at least 80% of checklist items marked correct by instructor review | Students maintain a running lab log throughout the course documenting preflight findings, color profile assignments, RIP settings, imposition layouts, and spectrophotometer measurements from each hands-on lesson. The log is collected at the end of the course and graded for completeness, accuracy of recorded data, and evidence of corrective-action documentation—skills that mirror the production records required in certified print shops. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Chemical & Equipment Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on the five mandatory safety behaviors; any missed item requires immediate re-demonstration before the student may continue using proofing equipment | Instructor observes each student performing the opening safety routine at the proofing and RIP workstation: correctly locating and reading the SDS for proofing inks, donning appropriate PPE if handling liquid inks or cleaning solvents, confirming ventilation is adequate, demonstrating proper waste disposal for ink cartridges and solvent wipes, and identifying the location of the eyewash station and fire extinguisher. This check is completed during Lesson 6 and is a prerequisite for the skills demonstration. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-07 Trade course
Museum Panel Production
72 hr · $865 COMPLIMENTARY
Students learn the end-to-end workflow for producing archival-quality interpretive and exhibit panels used in museums, galleries, and heritage sites, covering substrate selection, color-managed wide-format printing, surface finishing, and mounting to conservation standards. Emphasis is placed on color accuracy, material longevity, handling protocols, and the documentation practices required by institutional clients. Lessons map directly to the PIA/Printing United Certification color management and wide-format output competency areas.
Outcomes- Select appropriate archival substrates and inks for museum panel applications based on durability, off-gassing, and lightfastness specifications from material safety data sheets and manufacturer guidelines.
- Build and apply ICC color profiles and soft-proof to a museum-specified color standard, achieving a measurable Delta-E result within tolerance on a calibrated wide-format inkjet output.
- Prepare print-ready artwork files from supplied content, applying bleed, safe-zone, and resolution standards appropriate for close-viewing exhibit panels at sizes up to 48 inches wide.
- Execute lamination, cold and heat mounting, and face-mounting processes on rigid and semi-rigid substrates without bubble, delamination, or substrate warping defects.
- Apply OSHA-compliant safe handling, ventilation, and PPE procedures when working with adhesives, laminates, and solvent-based finishing materials throughout production.
- Complete a production record and client-approval proof package—including color bar, material cert, and panel inspection checklist—that meets institutional archival documentation requirements.
Course text
Students learn the end-to-end workflow for producing archival-quality interpretive and exhibit panels used in museums, galleries, and heritage sites, covering substrate selection, color-managed wide-format printing, surface finishing, and mounting to conservation standards. Emphasis is placed on color accuracy, material longevity, handling protocols, and the documentation practices required by institutional clients. Lessons map directly to the PIA/Printing United Certification color management and wide-format output competency areas.
How the course runs. 6 blocks: Museum Panel Standards and Material Science; Color Management for Museum Output; File Preparation and Prepress for Exhibit Panels; Wide-Format Printing on Archival Substrates; Lamination, Mounting, and Face-Mounting Techniques; Quality Control, Documentation, and Client Handoff Package.
What competent looks like. Select appropriate archival substrates and inks for museum panel applications based on durability, off-gassing, and lightfastness specifications from material safety data sheets and manufacturer guidelines. Build and apply ICC color profiles and soft-proof to a museum-specified color standard, achieving a measurable Delta-E result within tolerance on a calibrated wide-format inkjet output. Prepare print-ready artwork files from supplied content, applying bleed, safe-zone, and resolution standards appropriate for close-viewing exhibit panels at sizes up to 48 inches wide. Execute lamination, cold and heat mounting, and face-mounting processes on rigid and semi-rigid substrates without bubble, delamination, or substrate warping defects. Apply OSHA-compliant safe handling, ventilation, and PPE procedures when working with adhesives, laminates, and solvent-based finishing materials throughout production. Complete a production record and client-approval proof package—including color bar, material cert, and panel inspection checklist—that meets institutional archival documentation requirements.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Museum Panel Standards and Material Science | 10 | theory | Students identify the archival, conservation, and institutional standards that govern museum panel material selection and explain why each requirement exists. |
| Manufacturer TDS and SDS for at least three substrate types and two ink sets; ASTM D4303 summary sheet; sample substrate swatches (foam-core, Dibond, Sintra-free board, UV-resistant acrylic); whiteboard; comparison table worksheet | Exit quiz of 15 questions covering material properties, lightfastness categories, and SDS hazard sections; pass = 80% correct (12/15). |
| 2 | Color Management for Museum Output | 14 | demo | Students configure a color-managed workflow—spectrophotometer measurement, ICC profile build, soft-proof setup, and Delta-E verification—for a wide-format inkjet printer on a specified archival substrate. |
| Wide-format inkjet printer with RIP software; archival matte and glossy substrate rolls; spectrophotometer (X-Rite i1 or equivalent); ICC profiling software; Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop/Illustrator); reference image file; color bar target; Delta-E log sheet; nitrile gloves | Instructor reviews each pair's Delta-E log; average Delta-E across the neutral ramp must be ≤ 3.0 and no single patch > 5.0 for a pass; pairs outside tolerance reprint and re-measure once. |
| 3 | File Preparation and Prepress for Exhibit Panels | 12 | lab | Students prepare a supplied multi-panel exhibit layout for museum output, correctly setting resolution, bleed, safe zones, color mode, and panel-numbering documentation to meet a written client specification. |
| Adobe InDesign and Acrobat (Creative Cloud); supplied four-panel InDesign package with embedded errors; preflight checklist handout; panel specification sheet; computers with ICC profiles installed; printer for proof output | Instructor reviews submitted PDFs against the specification sheet and the student error log; pass = all seven documented errors found and corrected, PDFs pass automated Acrobat preflight with zero critical errors, and approval memo is present. |
| 4 | Wide-Format Printing on Archival Substrates | 12 | practice | Students operate a wide-format inkjet printer to produce a museum panel output on archival substrate that meets dimensional accuracy, color bar tolerance, and surface-quality standards. |
| Wide-format inkjet printer; RIP software; archival substrate roll (media specified in Lesson 1 selection exercise); D50 color-viewing booth or 5000K light source; steel rule or measuring tape; surface-quality inspection checklist; nitrile gloves; safety glasses; pre-run checklist card | Instructor reviews completed surface-quality checklist and measures two random panel dimensions; pass = all surface criteria checked 'pass,' panel dimensions within ±0.125 inch of spec, and color bar measured on spectrophotometer with Delta-E ≤ 3.0 average. |
| 5 | Lamination, Mounting, and Face-Mounting Techniques | 16 | lab | Students execute cold lamination, heat-assisted mounting to rigid substrate, and face-mounting to acrylic using archival adhesives, producing finished panels free of bubbles, delamination, and substrate warpage. |
| Cold laminator; heat press or heated dry-mount press; flat-bed laminator; cold laminate rolls (archival, low-VOC); optically clear adhesive film for face-mounting; Dibond panels; clear acrylic sheets; straightedge; backlight source for bubble inspection; nitrile gloves; safety glasses; LOTO kit; process-parameter log sheet; SDS for all adhesives | Instructor inspects each finished panel under backlight and with straightedge; pass = zero visible bubbles larger than 2 mm, all four edges fully adhered, diagonal flatness deviation ≤ 1/16 inch, and completed process-parameter log with all fields filled in. |
| 6 | Quality Control, Documentation, and Client Handoff Package | 8 | practice | Students complete a full production record and client-approval package for a finished museum panel set that meets institutional archival documentation requirements. |
| Finished four-panel set from Lessons 4 and 5; production record template; 20-point documentation checklist; manufacturer TDS and SDS copies; ink and media lot-number records; presentation rubric; table or display surface for panel presentation | Instructor scores the documentation package against the 20-point checklist (pass = 16/20 or higher) and scores the verbal walkthrough on the rubric (pass = meets standard on all four rubric dimensions: accuracy, completeness, clarity, and professional communication); students who do not pass either component revise and resubmit within one class session. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material Science and Standards Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (38/50 questions) | A 50-question written exam covering archival material properties, lightfastness ratings, off-gassing and acid-free standards, ICC color management concepts, prepress specifications for museum output, and SDS hazard identification; questions are drawn from lesson content and map to PIA/Printing United Certification color management and wide-format output exam areas. Students may not use notes; results are returned with an item-by-item score sheet so gaps can be addressed in Lesson 6 revision. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Finished Panel Set Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Meets standard on all six rubric dimensions; any 'does not meet' requires one remediation attempt | Students produce a complete four-panel 18×24-inch museum exhibit set from a supplied client brief—completing prepress, printing on archival substrate, laminating, and mounting—evaluated by the instructor on a six-dimension rubric: color accuracy (Delta-E ≤ 3.0 average), dimensional accuracy (±0.125 inch), surface quality (zero visible bubbles or banding), flatness, safe equipment operation observed throughout, and completeness of the production record package. This demonstration maps to PIA/Printing United Certification wide-format output and finishing competency areas. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Production Lab Log | Log | 15% | All six lesson log sheets submitted with all required fields complete and legible; average accuracy score ≥ 80% against answer keys where applicable | Students maintain a running lab log across all six lessons, including the substrate comparison table, ICC profiling Delta-E data, prepress error log, printer pre-run checklist, lamination process-parameter log, and the final 20-point documentation checklist audit; the log is collected at the end of the course and reviewed for completeness, accuracy of recorded values, and evidence of corrective action where results fell outside tolerance. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and Hazard Recognition Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on all critical safety behaviors; any critical failure (PPE not donned, LOTO skipped, SDS not consulted before adhesive use) results in immediate stop-work and mandatory safety review before the student continues | The instructor uses a direct-observation checklist during Lessons 4 and 5 lab sessions to verify that each student correctly identifies required PPE before beginning each process, consults the SDS for any adhesive or laminate before use, performs the LOTO procedure on the laminator or heat press before any adjustment to the nip or platen area, and disposes of adhesive waste per the SDS instructions; the checklist is signed by the instructor and retained in the student's program file as evidence of OSHA 10-aligned safe practice. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TEC-PRIN79-08 Capstone
Capstone Project: Integrated Print & Signage Build
108 hr · $1,080 COMPLIMENTARY
Students design, produce, and install a complete, client-brief-driven print and signage package that integrates skills from every prior course, including prepress, wide-format printing, vinyl application, substrate fabrication, and site installation. The capstone culminates in a formal project defense in which students present their documentation, process decisions, and finished work to a panel of instructors and, where available, an industry reviewer. Successful completion demonstrates job-entry readiness and directly supports portfolio requirements for PIA/Printing United Certification and the 3M Preferred Installer credential.
Outcomes- Plan and execute a multi-component print and signage project from client brief through installation, meeting specified dimensions, color targets, and finish quality within a professional deadline.
- Produce a complete job file package including a client brief, production schedule, material cut list, color-managed press-ready files, and an installation plan with site measurements.
- Apply safe work practices throughout all production phases, including chemical handling, lockout/tagout for cutting and routing equipment, and PPE selection appropriate to each task.
- Fabricate and finish at least three distinct deliverables—such as a wide-format banner, a cut-vinyl or vehicle-wrap panel, and a rigid substrate sign—that meet trade-standard quality benchmarks for registration, adhesion, and appearance.
- Inspect, document, and remediate defects using industry quality-control methods, recording findings in a written punch list and sign-off sheet.
- Deliver a structured oral defense of the project, explaining material choices, process decisions, problem-solving steps, and lessons learned to a mixed technical and non-technical audience.
Course text
Students design, produce, and install a complete, client-brief-driven print and signage package that integrates skills from every prior course, including prepress, wide-format printing, vinyl application, substrate fabrication, and site installation. The capstone culminates in a formal project defense in which students present their documentation, process decisions, and finished work to a panel of instructors and, where available, an industry reviewer. Successful completion demonstrates job-entry readiness and directly supports portfolio requirements for PIA/Printing United Certification and the 3M Preferred Installer credential.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Project Planning, Client Brief & Production Scheduling; File Preparation, Color Management & Press-Ready Output; Fabrication, Finishing & Installation; Project Documentation, Defense Preparation & Formal Presentation.
What competent looks like. Plan and execute a multi-component print and signage project from client brief through installation, meeting specified dimensions, color targets, and finish quality within a professional deadline. Produce a complete job file package including a client brief, production schedule, material cut list, color-managed press-ready files, and an installation plan with site measurements. Apply safe work practices throughout all production phases, including chemical handling, lockout/tagout for cutting and routing equipment, and PPE selection appropriate to each task. Fabricate and finish at least three distinct deliverables—such as a wide-format banner, a cut-vinyl or vehicle-wrap panel, and a rigid substrate sign—that meet trade-standard quality benchmarks for registration, adhesion, and appearance. Inspect, document, and remediate defects using industry quality-control methods, recording findings in a written punch list and sign-off sheet. Deliver a structured oral defense of the project, explaining material choices, process decisions, problem-solving steps, and lessons learned to a mixed technical and non-technical audience.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Project Planning, Client Brief & Production Scheduling | 18 | theory | Given a simulated client brief, students will produce a complete project plan—including scope statement, material specifications, production schedule with milestones, and a safety risk assessment—that is approved by the instructor before fabrication begins. |
| Simulated client brief handout, project-planning spreadsheet template, JSA form, OSHA 10 reference card, material data sheets for vinyl, ink, and substrate products used in the project, trade calculators, rulers, and tape measures. | Instructor reviews the completed project plan against a six-point rubric covering scope accuracy, schedule realism, material specification correctness, cost estimate completeness, JSA thoroughness, and professional document format; all six points must be rated Meets Standard (score 3 of 4) or higher, with no Unsatisfactory ratings, before the student advances to production. |
| 2 | File Preparation, Color Management & Press-Ready Output | 24 | lab | Students will build and preflight all press-ready files for their capstone project—including vector artwork, raster images, and an ICC-profiled RIP output for the wide-format printer—achieving zero critical preflight errors and a delta-E of 4.0 or less against the approved color target on a printed proof. |
| Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat), RIP software station, wide-format inkjet printer with loaded production media, spectrophotometer (such as an X-Rite or Barbieri unit), color targets from prior approved job or instructor-supplied reference print, preflight checklist, proof-approval form, USB or network file transfer. | Preflight report must show zero critical errors (missing fonts, wrong color mode, inadequate resolution, missing bleed); spectrophotometer readout must record delta-E ≤ 4.0 for all six measured color patches on the production proof before the instructor signs the proof-approval form allowing full production runs. |
| 3 | Fabrication, Finishing & Installation | 48 | practice | Students will produce all three capstone deliverables—a wide-format banner, a cut-vinyl or simulated wrap panel, and a rigid substrate sign—to trade finish standards, and will complete a scripted installation simulation including surface preparation, application, trimming, and quality inspection, with all safety protocols observed throughout. |
| Wide-format inkjet printer, laminator, banner media, grommets and grommet press, heat gun, squeegees (hard and felt-edge), application tape, isopropyl alcohol wipes, cast vinyl, vehicle door skin or flat application panel, precision trimming knife and replacement blades, ACM or foam-core substrate panels, panel saw or CNC router, drill, anchors, mounting hardware, torpedo level, PPE (nitrile gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection at router), LOTO kit, quality-inspection sheet, punch list form. | Each deliverable is inspected against a trade-standard quality rubric: banner—no delamination, grommets within ±0.25 in. of specified spacing, color matches approved proof within delta-E 4.0; vinyl panel—no lifting at edges after 24-hour dwell at room temperature, no visible bubbles or silvering, clean trim edge; rigid sign—dimensions within ±0.125 in. of spec, level within 1/16 in. over the sign length, surface graphic fully adhered with no wrinkles. All three deliverables must reach Meets Standard on every rubric line before the student may proceed to the defense. |
| 4 | Project Documentation, Defense Preparation & Formal Presentation | 18 | field | Students will compile a complete project portfolio binder and deliver a 15-minute structured oral defense of their capstone work to a review panel, earning a passing score on both the documentation rubric and the defense rubric. |
| Completed project deliverables (banner, vinyl panel, rigid sign), project documentation binder or digital equivalent, presentation display area with table space for all three finished pieces, peer-review rubric, oral defense rubric, timer, and any audiovisual equipment the student chooses to use (projector, tablet) for showing digital files or photos from production. | The documentation binder must earn a score of 80% or higher on the documentation rubric (all required sections present, content accurate, professional formatting). The oral defense must earn a score of 80% or higher on the defense rubric, with no single category—overview clarity, process rationale, quality explanation, lessons-learned depth, or response to panel questions—rated below Approaching Standard. Both scores must meet threshold; a student who fails either component receives specific written feedback and one opportunity to remediate within five instructional days. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capstone Build: Three-Deliverable Production Project | Project | 60% | All three finished deliverables (wide-format banner, vinyl/wrap panel, and rigid substrate sign) must earn a rating of Meets Standard on every line of the production quality rubric; no line may remain at Does Not Meet Standard after the permitted remediation period. | This project assessment evaluates the student's ability to plan, produce, and install a complete, client-brief-driven print and signage package across multiple substrates and processes. Instructors inspect each finished piece against measurable trade tolerances for dimensions, color accuracy, surface adhesion, edge quality, and installation level/plumb, using the course quality-inspection rubric. Meets specification · Within estimate · Workmanship · Safety · Documentation |
| Project Documentation Portfolio | Portfolio | 20% | Portfolio must score 80% or higher on the documentation rubric, with all required sections present and no section rated Unsatisfactory. | The portfolio compiles every planning and quality-control document produced during the capstone—client brief, JSA, production schedule, preflight data, color measurements, proof-approval forms, punch lists, and a written reflection—organized into a professional binder or digital folder. Instructors evaluate completeness, accuracy, professional presentation, and the quality of the student's written reflection on problem-solving, as these documents mirror the job-file records that employers and certification bodies expect practitioners to maintain. Completeness · Organization · Evidence quality |
| Oral Defense Presentation | Oral / panel | 20% | Student must score 80% or higher on the oral defense rubric, with no individual category rated below Approaching Standard, and must respond accurately and without prompts to all panel questions including at least one safety-related question. | In a 12-to-15-minute structured presentation before a panel of instructors and, where available, an industry reviewer, the student explains their project decisions, demonstrates understanding of the production processes and quality outcomes, and answers clarifying questions. This defense mirrors the kind of client-facing and supervisor-facing communication expected in the trade and directly develops the professional communication competency assessed under PIA/Printing United Certification exam standards. Explains decisions · Answers technical questions · Professional communication |
TEC-PRIN79-09 Externship / clinical
Externship / Worksite Placement
162 hr · $650 COMPLIMENTARY
Students complete 162 supervised hours at a vetted printing or signage employer, applying classroom skills in a live production environment under the direct oversight of a journeyman or shop supervisor. Work assignments span prepress, wide-format output, vinyl application, sign fabrication, and customer-facing tasks so that students encounter the full trade workflow. Employer evaluations and a reflective log document competency growth and readiness for entry-level employment.
Outcomes- Execute assigned production tasks—digital printing, vinyl application, finishing, or sign installation—at employer-accepted quality and pace for a minimum of 120 billable hours.
- Follow all worksite safety protocols including lockout/tagout procedures, required PPE selection, and hazard communication practices without a recordable incident.
- Demonstrate professional workplace behaviors—punctuality, communication, and task follow-through—earning a rating of 'meets expectations' or higher on all employer evaluation criteria.
- Maintain a structured daily work log documenting tasks performed, equipment used, quality checkpoints applied, and problems encountered with solutions attempted.
- Identify at least three connections between worksite practices and program coursework, citing specific techniques from courses 2–8 in the final reflective summary.
- Receive employer verification that the student can perform at least two of the following without direct supervision: RIP file setup, wide-format print-and-cut operation, vinyl wrap panel installation, or sign substrate finishing.
Course text
Students complete 162 supervised hours at a vetted printing or signage employer, applying classroom skills in a live production environment under the direct oversight of a journeyman or shop supervisor. Work assignments span prepress, wide-format output, vinyl application, sign fabrication, and customer-facing tasks so that students encounter the full trade workflow. Employer evaluations and a reflective log document competency growth and readiness for entry-level employment.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Worksite Orientation and Safety Integration; Production Rotation: Core Trade Tasks; Independent Task Performance and Problem-Solving; Final Employer Evaluation and Reflective Summary.
What competent looks like. Execute assigned production tasks—digital printing, vinyl application, finishing, or sign installation—at employer-accepted quality and pace for a minimum of 120 billable hours. Follow all worksite safety protocols including lockout/tagout procedures, required PPE selection, and hazard communication practices without a recordable incident. Demonstrate professional workplace behaviors—punctuality, communication, and task follow-through—earning a rating of 'meets expectations' or higher on all employer evaluation criteria. Maintain a structured daily work log documenting tasks performed, equipment used, quality checkpoints applied, and problems encountered with solutions attempted. Identify at least three connections between worksite practices and program coursework, citing specific techniques from courses 2–8 in the final reflective summary. Receive employer verification that the student can perform at least two of the following without direct supervision: RIP file setup, wide-format print-and-cut operation, vinyl wrap panel installation, or sign substrate finishing.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Worksite Orientation and Safety Integration | 16 | field | The student will complete the employer's site-specific safety orientation, identify all required PPE for assigned workstations, and demonstrate correct lockout/tagout procedure on at least one machine before beginning production tasks. |
| Employer safety orientation packet, facility safety map form, LOTO competency card, PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves, hearing protection as required by workstation), student-issued OSHA 10 card from Course 1, SDS binder | Supervisor signs the LOTO competency card confirming independent demonstration; student submits completed facility safety map with all required locations marked. Both items must be completed before the student begins unsupervised production tasks. No partial credit—pass requires 100% completion. |
| 2 | Production Rotation: Core Trade Tasks | 100 | field | The student will perform assigned production tasks across at least two trade areas (e.g., wide-format printing, vinyl application, finishing, or sign fabrication) at the employer's quality standard and within the employer's expected time per task. |
| Employer's production equipment (wide-format printer, laminator, plotter/cutter, wrap tools, installation hardware as assigned), daily work log forms, approved PPE, employer's quality control checklist, RIP software workstation | Daily work log entries reviewed weekly by the program externship coordinator; employer mid-point evaluation (week 6) must rate student 'meets expectations' on quality, safety, and pace in at least two task categories. Unsatisfactory ratings require a documented improvement plan within five business days. |
| 3 | Independent Task Performance and Problem-Solving | 30 | field | The student will complete at least two production tasks from start to finish with only minimal supervision, diagnosing and correcting at least one quality or equipment issue independently before requesting assistance. |
| Assigned job tickets and work orders, production equipment as scheduled, quality control checklist, daily work log, employer troubleshooting reference guides, PPE | Supervisor confirms at least two independently completed jobs by initialing the corresponding daily log entries; student's log entry for each must describe the quality checkpoint results. At least one troubleshooting entry must show a resolution before supervisor intervention. Coordinator reviews at final site visit. |
| 4 | Final Employer Evaluation and Reflective Summary | 16 | field | The student will compile the complete daily work log into a final portfolio submission and deliver a structured oral or written reflective summary demonstrating specific connections between worksite experience and program coursework. |
| Complete daily work log, employer final evaluation rubric, reflective summary template, program externship coordinator review checklist | Employer final evaluation rubric must score 'meets expectations' or higher in at least four of five rated categories (safety, quality, professionalism, technical skill, attendance/punctuality); reflective summary must cite at least three course-specific techniques by name and receive a pass rating from the coordinator. Either element rated unsatisfactory requires remediation before the credential exam prep course begins. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Skills Demonstration Evaluation | Skills demonstration | 70% | Rating of 'meets expectations' or higher in at least four of five rubric categories on the final employer evaluation form; no 'unsatisfactory' rating in the safety category under any circumstance. | The employer supervisor completes a standardized rubric at mid-point and at the conclusion of the externship, rating the student on safety compliance, technical task quality, production pace, professionalism, and attendance. The final rubric score constitutes the skills demonstration assessment and is countersigned by the externship coordinator during the final site visit. Competency · Safety · Attendance · Conduct · Initiative |
| Externship Work Log and Reflective Summary | Log | 30% | All 162 hours documented with no unexplained gaps; at least two independently completed jobs verified by supervisor initials; reflective summary rates 'pass' from the coordinator for specificity and accuracy of course connections. | The student submits the complete daily work log—one entry per shift, covering tasks, equipment, quality checkpoints, and troubleshooting—along with a 400–600 word reflective summary linking on-site experience to specific program content from Courses 2–8. The coordinator reviews both documents against a checklist and assigns a pass or incomplete; an incomplete requires the student to supply missing entries or expand the summary before advancing to Course 10. Complete · Verified |
TEC-PRIN79-10 Exam prep
Certification Exam Preparation: PIA/Printing United & 3M Preferred Installer
45 hr · $450 COMPLIMENTARY
This 45-hour course systematically reviews every published content domain tested on the PIA/Printing United Certification and the 3M Preferred Installer credential, closing knowledge gaps identified through diagnostic assessment. Learners complete timed, full-length mock exams under realistic test conditions and refine both trade knowledge and test-taking strategy before sitting live credential exams.
Outcomes- Map personal diagnostic results to specific PIA/Printing United and 3M Preferred Installer exam domains and articulate a targeted study plan.
- Demonstrate command of print-industry theory — color science, substrate selection, prepress workflow, offset and wide-format process, quality control — at the level required to pass the PIA/Printing United written exam.
- Demonstrate hands-on proficiency in surface preparation, vinyl application, seaming, heat forming, and post-installation inspection at the standard required for 3M Preferred Installer assessment.
- Complete a full-length timed PIA/Printing United mock exam with a score of 75% or higher on two consecutive attempts.
- Complete a full-length timed 3M Preferred Installer mock practical and written review with a score of 75% or higher on two consecutive attempts.
- Apply test-taking strategies — time management, process of elimination, flagging and returning — to both credential assessments.
Course text
This 45-hour course systematically reviews every published content domain tested on the PIA/Printing United Certification and the 3M Preferred Installer credential, closing knowledge gaps identified through diagnostic assessment. Learners complete timed, full-length mock exams under realistic test conditions and refine both trade knowledge and test-taking strategy before sitting live credential exams.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Diagnostic Assessment and Personalized Study Planning; PIA/Printing United Exam Domain Deep-Dive Review; 3M Preferred Installer Domain Review and Practical Reinforcement; Full Mock Exams, Debrief, and Exam-Day Readiness.
What competent looks like. Map personal diagnostic results to specific PIA/Printing United and 3M Preferred Installer exam domains and articulate a targeted study plan. Demonstrate command of print-industry theory — color science, substrate selection, prepress workflow, offset and wide-format process, quality control — at the level required to pass the PIA/Printing United written exam. Demonstrate hands-on proficiency in surface preparation, vinyl application, seaming, heat forming, and post-installation inspection at the standard required for 3M Preferred Installer assessment. Complete a full-length timed PIA/Printing United mock exam with a score of 75% or higher on two consecutive attempts. Complete a full-length timed 3M Preferred Installer mock practical and written review with a score of 75% or higher on two consecutive attempts. Apply test-taking strategies — time management, process of elimination, flagging and returning — to both credential assessments.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diagnostic Assessment and Personalized Study Planning | 6 | theory | Each learner scores a baseline diagnostic spanning all PIA/Printing United and 3M Preferred Installer content domains and produces a written study plan prioritizing weak areas. |
| Instructor-authored 90-question diagnostic (aligned to published PIA/Printing United and 3M Preferred Installer domain outlines), answer key with domain cross-reference table, PIA/Printing United candidate guide, 3M Preferred Installer program documentation, graph paper or spreadsheet template for charting scores, learner notebooks | Learner submits a completed domain score chart and a written study plan; both are reviewed by the instructor. Pass mark: study plan must address every domain scored below 70% with a specific resource and schedule — accepted/needs revision before moving forward. |
| 2 | PIA/Printing United Exam Domain Deep-Dive Review | 16 | theory | Learners explain and correctly apply knowledge from all PIA/Printing United exam content domains — color management, prepress, printing processes, substrates and inks, finishing, quality control, and shop safety — at exam proficiency. |
| PIA/Printing United candidate guide and any PIA-published study resources, instructor-authored domain station quizzes (15 questions each), case-study job packets, color sample books, ICC profile reference sheets, OSHA 29 CFR 1910 summary card (for safety domain), spectrophotometer demonstration unit, learner error-log notebooks | Average score across all six domain station quizzes must be 70% or higher, with no single domain below 60%; learners scoring below threshold on any domain complete an additional instructor-guided remediation worksheet for that domain before the mock exam. Error log reviewed for completeness. |
| 3 | 3M Preferred Installer Domain Review and Practical Reinforcement | 14 | lab | Learners correctly perform and verbally explain each 3M Preferred Installer practical competency — surface preparation, vinyl handling and application, heat forming, seaming, and post-installation inspection — to the standard described in 3M application guidelines. |
| Vinyl application panels (aluminum composite and vehicle door skins), 3M IJ-series vinyl samples, 3M Primer 94, isopropyl alcohol, lint-free wipes, squeegees (hard and soft durometer), heat guns, infrared thermometer, rivet brush, knifeless tape, seaming tape, 3M Preferred Installer program application guide and technical bulletins, instructor-authored bench cards and written quizzes, PPE (nitrile gloves, safety glasses) | Skills circuit evaluated with a competency checklist (GO/NO-GO for each of five bench tasks); all five must be rated GO. Written quiz average must be 70% or higher. Any NO-GO task is repeated once with instructor guidance before final check. |
| 4 | Full Mock Exams, Debrief, and Exam-Day Readiness | 9 | practice | Each learner completes full-length timed mock exams for both credentials, scores 75% or higher on each, and articulates exam-day logistics, test-taking strategy, and a personal preparation checklist. |
| Instructor-authored full-length PIA/Printing United mock exam (printed, timed), answer key with domain rationale, 3M Preferred Installer mock written exam, practical evaluation rubric, vinyl application panel for live practical task, heat gun, squeegee set, timer, PIA/Printing United candidate guide (logistics section), 3M Preferred Installer program enrollment documentation, learner error-log notebooks, exam-day checklist template | PIA/Printing United mock exam: 75% or higher on at least one of two attempts. 3M Preferred Installer mock written: 75% or higher; live practical: all GO ratings on the competency rubric. Learners not meeting either threshold receive a documented remediation plan and instructor-supervised additional practice before their live exam date. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual-Credential Full Mock Exam Battery | Mock certification exam | 100% | 75% or higher on the PIA/Printing United mock exam and 75% or higher on the 3M Preferred Installer mock written exam, plus all GO ratings on the 3M practical competency rubric — both credentials must be passed to earn course completion. | Learners sit timed, full-length mock exams for both the PIA/Printing United Certification and the 3M Preferred Installer credential under realistic exam conditions, immediately followed by an instructor-led item-by-item debrief. Results are documented in the learner's portfolio alongside their error log and study plan, providing evidence of exam readiness and a clear record for any remaining targeted remediation before live credential testing. Score · Time management |
Program completion
External credential: 3M Preferred Installer; PIA/Printing United Certification
Students sit the PIA/Printing United Certification exam administered by Printing United Alliance, and the 3M Preferred Installer credentialing assessment administered by 3M Commercial Solutions. Pass standard: Credential issued by the body.
Back to Printing & Signage · How the school gets authority to award these credentials
