Roland DG UK’s Academy
Roland DG UK’s Academy is a facility in which sign makers can find fresh inspiration and skills to develop their businesses. Since its creation in 2006, the academy has consistently provided support not only to seasoned professionals, but also to those new to the industry, or those looking to diversify into lateral markets.
Roland DG Corporation is a leading manufacturer of products designed to help professionals and hobbyists transform their imagination into reality, including SOLJET, VersaCAMM, VersaUV and Texart series large-format inkjet devices. In addition to these product offerings, Roland DG also run a number of courses to inspire imagination and provide hands-on experience for sign makers.
The Roland DG Academy is an industry- recognised training facility available to businesses and individuals working within the heart of the creative industry – from sign makers to vehicle wrappers, textile printers to merchandisers. Offered at two central UK locations, Bristol and Walsall, the Academy presents attendees with an ideal, engaging learning environment equipped with modern training technologies in order to stand out and get the most out of their businesses.
“Our Roland Academy presents attendees with clear, practical and inspirational content that opens their eyes to new, profitable possibilities and opportunities in their fields,” says Joe Wigzel, Academy and Creative Centre Manager. “Versatility is important in today’s signage and print market, and the Academy and Creative Centre help make this transition easy and natural.”
The Creative Centre plays a large part in the support of both new and familiar customers. Based in Clevedon, the centre is filled with examples of what sign makers can develop using Roland DG technologies, including signs, packaging, engraved products, textiles and even 3D models. For those unable to attend the Creative Centre physically, there is an online Creative Centre Virtual Tour, in which past attendees can continue to be inspired from their own offices or homes.
Courses offered within the Academy are designed to suit all skill levels, ranging from the basics of software applications to production methods and beneficial technology advancements. There are full-day, halfday and taster sessions provided, alongside longer industry-specific courses such as the two-day Vehicle Wrap course held at Walsall Academy.
An all-in-one solution
In order to facilitate what Joe calls an “exchange of wisdom and imagination”, Roland DG offers Academy courses with the majority of print products that are sold.
For example, the Introduction to Digital Print course is offered alongside the compact VersaSTUDIO BN-20, and the Intermediate Digital Print course is bundled with the advanced SOLJET PRO-4 XR-640, offering support and knowledge to all business levels. Better Business Bootcamps are also provided for those interested in knowing more about a machine they are looking to purchase, such as the successful Texart Dye Sublimation Better Business Bootcamp.
“For those with more specific needs, Roland DG also run courses on Vehicle Wrap and Application based at Walsall College, providing the groundwork for those looking to diversify into a profitable new sector,” adds Joe. Lamination courses are also run in conjunction with Vivid Laminating, offering additional skillsets and developed knowledge to many print markets.