FTA Technical Conference Schedule
Sunday, September 21
FIRST Level 1
FTA’s FIRST Level One Training is the ultimate launchpad for entry-level printers, offering a unique opportunity to earn your professional credentials on-site at the 2025 Forum InfoFlex. By completing this comprehensive certification during the event, you’ll instantly elevate your professional profile, gaining essential technical knowledge and fundamental skills that will transform you into a confident, industry-ready print expert with a valuable credential to showcase your commitment to excellence.
Presidential Opening: FTA President, Nathan Ridnouer
Introduction of Conference Chair – Bob Coomes
Charting the Course: Leadership Perspectives on FTA’s Present and Future
Join us for a candid and forward-looking conversation with the incoming leadership of FTA. Moderated by Nathan Ridnouer with incoming Board Chair (Paul Teachout) and incoming Vice Chair (Bob Coomes). Together, they will reflect on the association’s progress over the past year, discuss upcoming initiatives that will shape the member experience in the year ahead, and share their long-term vision for the future of FTA.
Flexo Forward: Trends Shaping the Next Decade
Presented by Women of Flexo
From automation and sustainability to digital hybridization and workforce evolution, this 20-minute session dives into the key trends redefining flexographic printing. Discover where the industry is heading, what’s driving change, and how forward-thinking printers and suppliers are adapting to stay competitive. Packed with insight and foresight, this session is your fast-track to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving print landscape.
Speaker
Catherine Haynes
Catherine Haynes is the VP of Strategic Iniatives for All Printing Resources. She has more than 28 years of experience in the printing industry, has been a certified G7 Expert for over 15 years, and is a certified FTA Implementation Specialist. At APR she assists sales technicians as a technical representative for various customer projects related to training, characterizations, prepress and pressroom assessments, color management, digital workflows, platemaking and implementation or expansion of in-house prepress capabilities. She holds positions as FQC Chair, Women of Flexo Co-Chair, and FTA Board member. She also coordinates and conducts industry online and in-person training programs and has been a regular speaker at FTA, Clemson, TLMI, FLAG and other industry events.
Tag, Scan, Deliver: Unlocking RFID & Smart Packaging for Flexo Converters
RFID and QR code technologies are revolutionizing packaging, enabling smarter product tracking, richer consumer engagement, and massive data generation. But for many converters, integrating these tools remains a steep challenge. In this session, you’ll get a crash course in RFID fundamentals—tailored for flexographic professionals across departments. Learn how Walmart’s RFID mandate is reshaping the industry, what it means for your workflow, and how your team—from sales to IT—can align to deliver value-added, RFIDenabled packaging with confidence.
Speaker
Eric Ferguson
Eric develops growth opportunities in the converter and brand market sectors in order to capture new business with RFID solutions. Built upon strong relationships among RFID stakeholders, Eric analyzes market trends, gaining commercial insights, and uncovering unmet needs to formulate go-to-market strategies. In the field of print specifications and color management, Eric continues over 20 years of industry stewardship by serving on the FIRST leadership committee, the specifications body for the flexographic printing industry. This work includes a turn as committee co-chair and as committee chairman, culminating in the publication of FIRST 4.0. Eric holds a bachelor of science in Graphic Communications from Clemson University, and lives in Atlanta with his wife Megan and young son, Colin.
Refreshment Break with Solutions Lab
KPIs, OEE- Metrics for the Pressroom
Data-driven performance is no longer optional—it’s essential. This session will break down the key performance indicators (KPIs) and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) metrics that matter most in the flexographic press room. Learn how to track, interpret, and act on the data to improve uptime, reduce waste, and boost productivity. Whether you’re on the floor or in management, this session will help you connect metrics to meaningful results.
Plates of Purpose: Navigating Photopolymer Options in Flexo
Not all plates are created equal. This technical session dives into the different types of photopolymer plates used in the flexographic industry—solvent-wash, thermal, water-washable, and elastomer—and how each performs across various substrates, ink systems, and print conditions. Learn how to select the right plate for your application, improve consistency, and optimize print quality from the ground up.
In Control: Mastering Process Stability in Flexography
Consistency is the cornerstone of quality in flexographic printing. This session explores the tools, techniques, and strategies behind effective process control—from ink management and plate performance to press settings and environmental variables. Learn how to reduce variation, improve repeatability, and build a workflow that delivers predictable, high-quality results every time.
Speaker
Greg Horney
Greg is the National Sales Manager for Fujifilm North America - Packaging Division. He has been in the flexographic printing industry for over 40 years starting from the floor up and ranging from narrow web labels to wide web flexible packaging. Greg has his associate's degree in graphic design at the University of Nebraska - Omaha then later completed his bachelor's degree at Rochester Institute of Technology in both Graphics Communications and Quality Management. He then completed his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt focusing his projects on the pressroom floor. Greg enjoys his time off big game hunting in the mountains of Montana and planes of the Midwest and Texas. He enjoys spending time off the grid, working on cars, and competitive 3D archery shoots.
Tips & Tricks for High Quality and Efficient Utilization of Flexo Inks
Running fast and printing flawlessly—it’s the ultimate flexo challenge. This session takes a deep dive into the ongoing tension between high-speed production and uncompromising quality. Learn how leading press rooms navigate tight schedules, minimize waste, and maintain print integrity without sacrificing throughput. From crew coordination to press maintenance and job planning, uncover the strategies that help balance productivity with precision.
Speaker
Rick Mix
Rick is the Sales Director for Interactive Inks & Coatings in South Elgin IL. He has 30+ years of flexo experience in prepress, inks, platemaking and pressroom equipment with focus on increasing efficiencies and improved graphics with environmentally friendly products. Rick earned a B.S. in Industrial Technology - Manufacturing Processes from Eastern Illinois University and an MBA from Loyola University Chicago He is active in the flexo industry including as a committee member for the FTA Print in Excellence Awards.
Networking Reception - around exhibits
Monday, September 22
FIRST Committee and WoF Breakfast
Breakfast is provided. As well as an opportunity to meet as a community with FIRST or Women of Flexo. This is a chance for these groups to meet together and for interested parties to find out how these groups help FTA advance package printing.
Keynote
Lean and Clean: Streamlining Success in Flexo Operations
Lean management isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a competitive advantage. This session explores how flexographic printers can apply lean principles to eliminate waste, improve flow, and maximize value across the entire operation. From setup reduction and inventory control to cross-functional teamwork, learn how to build a culture of continuous improvement tailored to the fast-paced demands of flexo
Speaker
Rodney Pennings
Rodney Pennings is BW Converting’s sales director for the PCMC brand printing, coating, and laminating division. He has a Master’s of Science degree in engineering and more than 29 years of industry experience. Rodney has held roles at BW Converting in engineering, operations leadership, and commercial leadership, all primarily focused on the printing industry. In his current role, Rodney is responsible for global sales of printing presses (central impression and inline), digital printing solutions, and laser roll cleaners.
Inline Flexo vs. Offset Printing for Folding Cartons: A Printer’s Strategic Advantage
This session will explore the evolving landscape of folding carton production by comparing inline flexographic printing with traditional offset workflows. Attendees will gain insights into the technical advantages, limitations, and real-world performance of each approach. A printer’s perspective will highlight how inline flexo can unlock new market opportunities, improve efficiency, and support sustainability goals—potentially reshaping how converters compete in this segment.
Speaker
Maggie Reed
Maggie Reed brings over 20 years of experience in the flexographic industry combining deep product knowledge with a proven record in sales and customer service. Known for her consultative approach she excels at identifying her clients’ unique needs and delivering tailored solutions – building long-term partnerships based on trust, innovation, and results. Maggie is the North American representative for Edale – A Canon Company – a leading engineering and manufacturing firm known for its highly automated flexographic printing presses and finishing systems. A native Californian, Maggie enjoys traveling her territory, connecting with customers across the continent. When home, she treasures time with family and friends and is an avid tennis enthusiast. Last year, she fulfilled two lifelong dreams – attending the US Open, where she had the unforgettable experience of seeing both world number one players compete in the first round, and seeing one of The Beatles live in concert, catching Ringo Starr at the iconic Ryman Auditorium.
Refreshment Break with Solutions Lab
Blame the Corona Treater: Dispelling Myths & Mysteries
When inks fail to bond with substrates, converters are quick to blame the corona treater. And why shouldn’t they? Corona treaters are responsible for adhesion, right? Well, not entirely. This presentation clears the air on misconceptions regarding corona treating and provides practical insights on: what a corona treater really does, how to measure applied treatment (watt density), ways to measure effectiveness of treatment (dyne levels), how seemingly small material and process changes impact success, and troubleshooting tips to get you back up and running quickly. Whether you are new to corona treating or an industry veteran we promise you this presentation will provide you with practical insights to improve your operations.
Speaker
Ryan Clarey
As Enercon Regional Sales Manager Ryan Clarey works with converters and film extruders to identify surface treating solutions to improve adhesion on films, foils, and paper, for printing, coating and laminating. Traveling extensively throughout the United States and Canada Ryan’s application specific approach to specifying corona, plasma and flame surface treating equipment ensures his customers with optimal performance and value.
Plain Talk, Powerful Impact: Mastering the Art of Technical Communication
Presented By LIFT (Leaders Inspiring Flexo's Tomorrow)
You know your press, your process, and your specs—but what happens when your audience doesn’t? In this session, we’ll explore the art of translating complex printing and production issues into language that resonates with non-technical stakeholders. Learn how to use visual tools, analogies, and simplification strategies to make your message clear without watering down its importance. We’ll uncover what goes wrong when clarity is missing—and how to build trust and alignment through better communication. Whether you’re talking to clients, leadership, or your own team, this session will help you communicate with confidence, accuracy, and impact.
Speaker
Bobby Congdon
Bobby Congdon is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Graphic Communications Department at Clemson University, where he teaches the Inks and Substrates course, as well as manages the student internship program. He also directs the STRIPE virtual flexo press simulator program, which aims to provide highly accessible print training to students and professionals. Previously, he was the Assistant Director at the Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics at Clemson University, managing a small but capable team providing world class training, research and services to the printing and packaging industry.
Lunch
Legacy HoF Winner Recognition
Re-thinking Anilox Inventory Optimization for Printers
Ask most flexographic printers, and they’ll have a similar approach for managing aniloxes in their inventory: An anilox comes in at a specified volume (BCM), and eventually wears down by 15-20% before it is sent out for re-surfacing. But how often do aniloxes actually follow this pattern in the real world? We take a deep dive into data from real-world anilox inventories, which reveals a new paradigm for printers to optimize their efficiency. Whether you’re new to anilox process control, or at the forefront of the industry, there’s something to learn, and a lot we’ve yet to find out!
Speaker
Brent Zurcher
Brent Zurcher, Director of Operations at MicroDynamics, has led efforts in product development and customer success for 10 years at MicroDynamics and its sister companies. Brent serves in a central role between the engineering team and sales/support teams to ensure MicroDynamics measurement systems have their maximum impact helping cylinder manufacturers and converters create quality products and improve their efficiency. Brent is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in Biological Engineering, and resides in the Atlanta area.
Innovation in Color Control – Techkon’s SpectroVision
Discover why Techkon’s SpectroVision earned the FTA Technical Innovation Award. This session explores how the inline color measurement and inspection system is helping flexographic printers achieve real-time color accuracy, reduce waste, and boost efficiency. Learn how SpectroVision combines spectral measurement, high-res imaging, and intuitive reporting—all in one system—to ensure consistent, brand-accurate results on press. The session is ideal for anyone seeking smarter, faster, and more reliable print quality control.
Speaker
Martin Van Balkom
Martin has joined Techkon USA last year as VP of Marketing to expand domestic and global market presence for Techkon's innovative technology solutions, such as the ChromaQA with SmartInk software and the SpectroVision inline color measurement system. Martin has a degree in Journalism and a background in SaaS and sensor instrumentation.
Advancing Sleeve Technology – Rossini’s Fast Bridge
Explore the Technical Innovation Award winning innovation behind Rossini’s Fast Bridge, a next-generation adapter sleeve system engineered for faster press speeds, improved stability, and reduced bounce in flexographic printing. This session will highlight how Fast Bridge’s advanced composite construction and lightweight design enhance press performance while minimizing vibration and downtime. Attendees will gain insight into how this award-winning solution improves print quality and productivity across a range of applications. Join Rossini to see how smart sleeve technology is redefining efficiency in the pressroom.
Refreshment Break with Solutions Lab
Smarter by the Second: Using AI to Drive Process Improvement in Flexo
Artificial Intelligence is changing how flexographic printers collect, analyze, and act on data. This session explores how AI-powered tools can streamline data compilation, uncover hidden inefficiencies, and support faster, smarter decision-making across the pressroom. From predictive maintenance to quality control and production optimization, see how AI is becoming an essential partner in process improvement.
Speaker
Kevin Bourquin
Kevin is a highly motivated, dedicated servant leader, capable of driving change, developing relationships, and leading organizations He currently serves as the General Manager of two Atlanta, Georgia packaging operations for Fortis Solutions Group. In this role, Kevin is responsible for the Safety, Quality, Service and Manufacturing for customers that require different types of packaging and printing methods across their product lines. Kevin previously served 20 years as the VP of Operations for Cyber Graphics. Kevin holds Bachelor of Science from Clemson University in Graphic Communications in addition to Master of Business Administration degree from The University of Memphis. He is the recipient of the 2022 President’s Award for Leadership Excellence by the Flexographic Technical Association.
Built to Last: Designing a QA Process for Flexographic Excellence
Quality doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built into every step of the workflow. This session walks you through how to establish a robust Quality Assurance (QA) process tailored to the flexographic printing environment. From defining critical control points and standardizing inspections to integrating documentation and team training, learn how to set up a QA system that prevents errors, ensures consistency, and meets brand expectations every time.
Speaker
Kirk Birchler
Kirk Birchler is the Color and Technical Director in Amcor’s Creative Services department. He has 32 years of experience in a variety of prepress, color and technical positions. With a passion for color, Kirk plays a pivotal role in ensuring visual consistency and excellence across all packaging. Kirk is a FIRST Certified Implementation Specialist.
Remote Reality: Navigating First-Time Print Approvals in a Virtual World
Approving first-time printed samples has always been a critical step—but doing it remotely introduces new complexities. This session explores the challenges of using virtual technologies for color verification, communication, and decision-making when stakeholders aren’t physically present. Learn about the limitations and advantages of remote approvals, tools that can help bridge the gap, and best practices for ensuring accuracy, speed, and confidence in your virtual sign-off process.
Speaker
Kevin Atchley
Grew up in Spartanburg, SC. Studied at Clemson University - BS Marketing '95; MIED Graphic Communication '99 Lived and worked in AR, MO, and GA. Currently resides in the Atlanta metro area. Worked in the pre-press for packaging for 26 years, most of that was focused on color management. I have been part of the press approval team for the last week 7 years.
WoF and LIFT Reception
Tuesday, September 23
FQC and LIFT during breakfast
Breakfast is provided. As well as an opportunity to meet as a community with FQC or LIFT. This is a chance for these groups to meet together and for interested parties to find out how these groups help FTA advance package printing.
Keynote
Optimized to Perform: Building the Foundation for Flexo Success
Optimization is the foundational first step in the FIRST methodology, crucial for achieving consistent, repeatable, and high-quality flexographic print results. This session will explore how to identify the best combination of print variables and preferred operating parameters, striking a balance between print quality, stability, and operational efficiency. Learn to conduct thoughtful optimization print trials, involving job-specific variables like anilox rolls, mounting tape, inks, and plates, as well as general press components. Proper documentation and data analysis, including statistical methods, will be covered as essential components for successful optimization. Understanding and implementing optimization is vital for minimizing downtime, maximizing speed, reducing waste, and providing the necessary baseline data for subsequent fingerprinting and characterization steps in the pursuit of process improvement
Speaker
Johnny Stamey
Johnny began his printing career in 1987 at RR Donnelley as a student in the Apprenticeship program. After 4 years Johnny received his Journeyman Printer Certification from the North Carolina Department of Labor. In August 2000, Johnny joined the Max Daetwyler Corporation as a Technical Sales Representative. In 2004 Johnny was awarded the FTA’s author of Excellence award for his article on doctor blade trouble shooting. In 2017 he was inducted into the Gravure Association of America’s Gravure Cylinder Society. He is currently the Technical Product Manager for Daetwyler and covers the US, Canada and Mexico.
Johnny Stamey
Johnny began his printing career in 1987 at RR Donnelley as a student in the Apprenticeship program. After 4 years Johnny received his Journeyman Printer Certification from the North Carolina Department of Labor. In August 2000, Johnny joined the Max Daetwyler Corporation as a Technical Sales Representative. In 2004 Johnny was awarded the FTA’s author of Excellence award for his article on doctor blade trouble shooting. In 2017 he was inducted into the Gravure Association of America’s Gravure Cylinder Society. He is currently the Technical Product Manager for Daetwyler and covers the US, Canada and Mexico.
Johnny Stamey
Johnny began his printing career in 1987 at RR Donnelley as a student in the Apprenticeship program. After 4 years Johnny received his Journeyman Printer Certification from the North Carolina Department of Labor. In August 2000, Johnny joined the Max Daetwyler Corporation as a Technical Sales Representative. In 2004 Johnny was awarded the FTA’s author of Excellence award for his article on doctor blade trouble shooting. In 2017 he was inducted into the Gravure Association of America’s Gravure Cylinder Society. He is currently the Technical Product Manager for Daetwyler and covers the US, Canada and Mexico.
Johnny Stamey
Johnny began his printing career in 1987 at RR Donnelley as a student in the Apprenticeship program. After 4 years Johnny received his Journeyman Printer Certification from the North Carolina Department of Labor. In August 2000, Johnny joined the Max Daetwyler Corporation as a Technical Sales Representative. In 2004 Johnny was awarded the FTA’s author of Excellence award for his article on doctor blade trouble shooting. In 2017 he was inducted into the Gravure Association of America’s Gravure Cylinder Society. He is currently the Technical Product Manager for Daetwyler and covers the US, Canada and Mexico.
The Blueprint of Consistency: Fingerprinting in Flexo
Fingerprinting, the crucial second step in the FIRST methodology following optimization, benchmarks your press’s performance to establish a precise foundation for consistent, repeatable flexographic printing. This session will delve into how to measure and record your press’s unique print characteristics under defined operating conditions and with specific materials, including all process and spot colors. You’ll learn about the comprehensive print trials involved, utilizing a range of test elements such as solid color patches, gray balance, tone scales, vignettes, and bar codes. The session will cover how to derive critical aim points and tolerances for key quality measures like density, dot gain/TVI, and color matches. Attendees will also understand the importance of documenting these results through “Press Operating Data Sheets” and “Press Fingerprint Reports,” which serve as the essential baseline for all future production runs and continuous process improvement efforts
Speaker
Bart Wright
Bart is the VP of Technical Sales for Pacificolor. Bart has over 25 years in the flexible printing industry. He has worked at multiple flexographic printer converters with duties including press room management, plate mounting and inks, director of graphics, and responsible for new print technology/ best practices for multiple facilities. He has served as an Excellence in Flexography judge, He has Co-Chaired a Fall FTA Forum, Chaired the FTA Forum, and is on the FIRST committee.
Data-Driven Color: Turning Press Trials into Predictable Results
Characterization, the fourth step in the FIRST methodology, is vital for achieving accurate and predictable color reproduction in flexographic printing. This session will detail how characterization trials utilize industry-standard targets, such as the IT8.7/5, to precisely define a press’s color reproduction capabilities for process colors. You will learn how the data gathered from these trials is used to create ICC profiles, which are then applied to calibrate monitors, scanners, imagesetters, and proofing systems to accurately simulate the press’s output. The session will emphasize the critical importance of adhering to the aim points and tolerances established during the prior optimization and fingerprinting steps, ensuring that the characterized printing condition is repeatable. Discover how successful characterization leads to optimized color separations, proofs that accurately predict printed results, reduced make-ready time, minimized waste, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Practical aspects of data collection, documentation, and maintaining standardized variables for future production runs will also be covered.
Speaker
Marek Skrzynski
Born and educated in Poland, Marek brings over three decades of packaging expertise, fueled by a passion for innovation in color management and workflow automation. He has furthered his education at Pratt Institute Manhattan, Clemson University, and most recently, MIT in Boston. Currently, Marek serves as the VP of Technology & Innovation at CSW, Inc. in Ludlow, MA, and until May'2024, chaired the Global Premedia Network. Since 1999, he has been a frequent speaker at academic and industry events, presenting on cutting-edge topics such as Advanced Color Reproduction, Generative AI, Expanded Color Gamut Printing, and 3D CGI Visualization. Marek is driven to inspire others to embrace innovation and push the boundaries of what’s possible in Flexo printing.
Refreshment Break
Proof in Print: Live Press Run Teaching FIRST 7.0 Measurement & Verification
Measurement and Verification isn’t just a chapter in FIRST 7.0—it’s the foundation of consistent, high-quality flexographic printing. In this session, see how a live pressrun becomes a powerful tool for teaching the importance of measuring, verifying, and maintaining print standards in real time. Using real-world examples, we’ll walkthrough the steps of setting targets, capturing data, and making adjustments—demonstrating how measurement drives process control. Whether you’re training new operators or reinforcing best practices, this session proves that when it comes to print quality, seeing is believing.
Speaker
Garrett Taylor
Garrett is the North America Sales Director at SOMA, bringing over 25 years of experience in the printing and packaging industry, with a specialized focus on flexographic printing. He plays a pivotal role in expanding SOMA’s operations in North America, reinforcing the company's commitment to delivering the latest flexo technology to customers in the U.S. and Canada, ensuring real benefits and advancements in their printing processes.
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