ACUP Conference Starts Sunday
In-plant managers from all over the United States as well as New Zealand and the U.K. will begin arriving in Phoenix tomorrow for the 49th annual Association of College and University Printers (ACUP) conference. Fifteen years after its last Phoenix conference, ACUP promises a full agenda of educational sessions and a vendor exhibit area displaying the latest technologies for in-plants. Plus, with more than 80 attendees (20 of them newcomers), the networking possibilities will be limitless.
“The Future Looks Bright” is the theme of the conference, and sessions have been designed to give managers ideas to help them be successful. Managers will share their in-plants’ success stories and strategic plans for growth. A series of roundtable discussions will cover topics like 3D printing, scanning, revenue strategies, multi-channel marketing and the right of first refusal. Other sessions will cover customer service, equipment justification, visionary business plans, becoming a change agent and wide-format opportunities (this last session will be moderated by IPG Editor Bob Neubauer).
The nearby Arizona State University Print & Imaging Lab will play a big part in this year’s conference. Former manager Mike Chiricuzio will share his experiences setting up the lab, starting with a business plan, getting administrative buy-in, purchasing equipment and integrating with ASU’s academic programs. Later in the conference, current director Cathy Skoglund will discuss the challenges and rewards of running an operation entirely with students. Then all ACUP attendees are invited to tour ASU’s Print and Imaging Lab.
At Wednesday’s dinner and awards ceremony, winners of the ACUP Production Awards and the ACUP Impression Awards will be honored.