BCIT Graphic Communications program launches Co-operative Education option

For over 15 years, the Graphic Communications program has been training students for roles in the print industry. Graduates work in various positions designing and producing print materials such as pamphlets, posters, and large-format images. This summer, the first group of Graphic Communications Co-operative Education (Co-op) students could be found designing, cutting, and binding in print companies throughout the lower mainland.

Jocelyn Aguilar, Dixie Salvacion, and Morgan Thi completed their summer co-op at Still Creek Press, which has a long history of hiring BCIT students and graduates. In their roles, they provided valuable support to Still Creek Press in the print production and wide format departments. They worked on machinery, tools, and with processes that expanded on what they were learning at BCIT.

For many students, the value of the co-op program is exposure to the industry. As Morgan Thi says, “My time at Still Creek has opened doors to different career paths, whether in production, digital print, or design. I didn’t anticipate feeling so drawn to all these possibilities, but I’m excited by the range of opportunities this industry has to offer.”

What is the Co-op program?

Co-operative Education work terms help bridge the gap between students and industry, providing students with a network of connections and hands-on experience applying the skills they learn in the classroom.

Sumeet Verma, Operations Manager at Imprint Plus,  specifically hired from the Graphic Communications program because their training in colour management, print production, and operating print equipment are the skills he needs for his production team. “I’ve hired students in different industries before and it is win-win. The student gets some great experience for the summer and we get to identify potential hires for the future. Students often bring fresh perspective, innovative ideas and creativity to problem solving.”

Students between the first and second year of the Graphic Communications diploma are available for full-time, paid summer work in the industry. They are prepared with technical training in Adobe Creative Suite, colour management theory, bindery and finishing, digital printing, and print production management. Students are eager to help in roles in production, sales, or design. Graduates of the program continue to work in the print and packaging industry in roles such as Pre-press technicians, Print Machine Operators, Graphic Designers, Print Production Coordinators, Sales, and installation.

BCIT Co-op Coordinator Joan Pascual works closely with co-op students and shares, “I’m impressed by the calibre of students in this program. Many are going through a career change and come with professional experience from business or design. They come with strong sense of a professionalism and a passion for the career opportunities available in the print, imaging, and packaging industries.”

BCIT Graphic Communications Co-op students are available for paid, full-time work from June – August each year. For more information about hiring a student, please contact Joan Pascual, Centre for Workplace Education.

(Photo caption for feature image: BCIT Graphic Communications students participate in a co-op work term at Still Creek Press where they apply knowledge and skills honed from their first-year studies.)