FTA offers certification testing at CMM

CMM International 2005 organizers announced that the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) will provide its multi-level press skill certification testing to CMM International visitors, April 18-21, 2005 in Chicago. This marks the first time that this FTA certification testing has been offered at any industry event.
FTA’s Press Skill Building Curriculum is designed as a multi-level skill building training system that provides flexographic press operating personnel with industry recognition through an examination of defined skills for increased levels of knowledge. The curriculum includes activities and educational material that identifies specific skills and provides reference materials to assist the operators in mastering those competencies leading to certification in each of three separate levels.
"The program provides a guide for company training using the flexo skill standards as the basic reference for the FTA Flexographic Press Skill Building Curriculum. Following successful completion of the exam at each of the skill levels, the individual earns an FTA recognized certification. The goal is to offer a system of accomplishments in the form of industry recognized certification of highly skilled personnel across flexographic printing functions,” said Rick Mix, technical director, FTA.
“We are delighted that FTA will be holding its popular Press Skill Certification Testing at CMM International 2005,” said Ian Johnston, president of CMM International. “This new program rounds out the vast array of educational opportunities available at the show.”
FTA‚s curriculum includes three progressive skill levels, designed to help the press operator learn and develop a high level of knowledge. Testing at each level is designed to improve quality, technical expertise, hands-on skills, industry language, and to assess the needs of the press operator for additional areas of training. Following are descriptions of the three progressive skill levels:

Basic Flexographer (Level I)
The "Basic Flexographer" classification (Level I) has been developed to provide recognition of those who have rudimentary knowledge of the industry or are entry-level personnel. The information outlines the skills and subjects that a Basic Flexographer should understand. Each skill includes a qualifying statement with reference study materials. One section includes sample test questions that provide an idea of the depth of knowledge that a Basic Flexographer must have. The employee may then consult with his/her supervisor for approval toward procuring the Level I test from the FTA. 

Flexo Press Operator (Level II)
The "Flexo Press Operator" should have two years of press experience to be eligible for the Level II test. Level II requires the mastery of a higher level of technical skills as a highly capable „printer assistant.‰ The operator must also raise his/her level of leadership and interpersonal skills to an appropriate position of respect. 

Accomplished Flexo Press Operator (Level III)
The "Accomplished Flexo Press Operator," with 3 or more years of continuous operating experience, will exhibit an expert-level knowledge of press operations, converting, plate mounting and process color presswork, qualifying for Level IV testing.
 
A fourth level of Expert Flexo Operator is produced and administered through the National Council for Skill Standards. This Flexo Press Operator’s Multicolor Certification Examination is endorsed, sponsored and funded by the FTA who provides educational resources and preparation workshops for this final, industry-specific skill standard.

For information on the FTA Press Skill Building Curriculum and Certification Testing, workshops, publications and technical services go to http://www.flexography.org/