Building Tomorrow’s Print Workforce: Industry Rallies Behind PELT Program
Hiring trained, job-ready employees remains one of the most pressing challenges in Canada’s printing industry. Across the country, companies are struggling to fill roles with individuals who have the foundational skills, technical knowledge, and interest needed to succeed in print.
That’s why the Printing Entry-Level Training Program (PELT) is gaining attention in Ontario—and support.
Originally developed by the PrintForward Printing and Imaging Association in British Columbia, PELT is a workforce development initiative designed to prepare new entrants for successful careers in the graphic communications sector. To launch the program with provincial funding, PELT requires letters of endorsement from industry employers. These letters demonstrate both the widespread need for training and the program’s value to the industry.
Industry Support Is Growing
A growing list of companies has stepped forward to support the PELT program:
- AIIM
- Staples Canada
- Elite Bindery and Mailing Solutions Ltd.
- Admill Group
- Resource Integrated Ltd.
- SinaLite
- Connecting for Results
- DATA Communications Management Corp.
- Tower Litho Ltd.
- Appletree Printing
- Supremex
- C17media
- Battlefield Graphics
- The Print Whisperer
- Ampersand Printing
- BA – Folding Cartons
These organizations recognize that without trained, entry-level talent, the entire industry faces long-term risk. Their endorsements reflect a shared belief that PELT is a proactive, practical solution to a persistent hiring crisis.
Why Support PELT?
The Printing Entry-Level Training Program will help address critical labour shortages by:
- Creating a pipeline of job-ready entry-level candidates
- Connecting students directly with employers through plant tours and industry mentorship
- Encouraging in-kind contributions that strengthen training (equipment, materials, expertise)
Companies supporting the program see it as a strategic workforce solution—and a way to reduce onboarding costs and turnover in the long term.
How to Get Involved
To keep the momentum going, we’re inviting more industry leaders to endorse the program. A short letter—written in your own words—can help PELT move closer to implementation. Sample letters are available, focusing on workforce development, industry sustainability, and community impact.
Please email your letter of support to hblack@connectingforresults.com. If you need assistance, we’re here to help.
Together, Let’s Build the Workforce We Need
With broad industry collaboration, the Printing Entry-Level Training Program can become a cornerstone of our sector’s talent development strategy. Your support can help bring it to life—and build the workforce we need for the future of print.