FFTA establishes FIRST operator certification program

Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association has launched a new scholarship program aimed at providing financial assistance to individuals or displaced workers who want to improve their skills in the pursuit of certification training. 

The FIRST (Flexographic Image Reproduction Specifications & Tolerances) operator certification scholarship program is available to any individual looking to attain a FIRST press or pre-press operator certification. The amount of each scholarship is USD $1,050, approximately 50 percent of the cost for the complete certification (levels I, II and III). The funds are provided by FTA’s regional networking groups; Harper Corporation of America, founding sponsors of the Technical Education Services Team (TEST); and the Foundation’s soon-to-be launched online auction. The remaining 50 percent will be subsidized directly by the FFTA. 

To be eligible, applicants must have at least two years full-time work experience in any area related to flexographic printing and converting. Scholarship recipients will be expected to complete all three levels within a two-year time period. 

‘FTA, its TEST team, and this program are the engines driving higher education in the flexographic printing industry today. We established this scholarship to make sure that all those who want to pursue certification, whether or not they are currently employed, have the opportunity to move forward and attain a greater level of competency in their job functions,’ said FTA/FFTA president Mark Cisternino. 

Joe Tuccitto, FTA’s education director, added: ‘The FIRST operator certification program – developed and delivered via the TEST Virtual Campus – is widely recognized throughout the industry as the standard of excellence in the delivery of high-quality, effective training at all levels. Individuals who successfully achieve a FIRST operator certification will have attained the highest level of knowledge of the flexographic print process with specific expertise in implementing the principles outlined in FIRST 4.0.’ 

Those seeking to apply for this scholarship can visit FTA’s website for complete details and the application. Scholarship recipients will be selected on a quarterly basis by the Foundation of FTA’s Scholarship Committee. 

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