BARCELONA–Members of the Flexographic Technical Association’s (FTA) Leaders Inspiring Flexo’s Tomorrow (LIFT)community gathered during Labelexpo Europe, creating an invaluable opportunity for connection, collaboration, and shared learning.

The meet-up brought together rising professionals in the package printing industry, giving them the chance to exchange ideas, expand their networks, and strengthen the sense of community that LIFT is built upon. Here are the thoughts of those who attended.

Brent Zurcher, LIFT vice chair, MicroDynamics, said, “It was so good to meet up with some friends from LIFT at Labelexpo Europe!  It’s always fun to see familiar faces in a new place. Among many things, we had a chance to discuss:

• The importance of getting younger employees out to trade shows and events
• Ways the LIFT community can help grow and empower careers
• Opportunities to grow our community

“Above all, we got to enjoy catching up and getting to know one another. There’s a lot that this group will accomplish in the industry.  Personally, I’m excited to think that those accomplishments will be made richer by sharing them with each other.  Life and work are simply better in community!”

James Steptoe, Troika Systems, added, “My overall impression of Labelexpo Europe was that it was incredibly dynamic and future focused. The scale of innovation on display–from automation and digital printing to sustainability solutions–highlighted how quickly the packaging industry is evolving. Seeing the latest technology and recognizing how companies are rethinking workflows, efficiency, and environmental responsibility was eye-opening.”

“What I learned and how it can help me move forward in my career is twofold. I gained a clearer view of where the industry is heading, in terms of hybrid printing solutions, and data-driven quality control. Plus, meeting with peers and industry leaders, gave me some new perspectives on best practices and potential collaborations. Moving forward, staying adaptable to change is going to be critical as we navigate newer technologies and methods. Aligning my skills with the trends shaping the industry is critical.”

Pictured, L-R: Harsimran Dhugga, Canflexographics; Josh Sigmon, Harper Corporation; Brent Zurcher, MicroDynamics; James Steptoe, Troika Systems; Courtney Huerth, Flexo Concepts.