RIT's innovative approach to education is reshaping the landscape of packaging science. The university is strategically integrating its print and graphic media technology curriculum into the packaging science program, recognizing the evolving needs of the packaging industry. This integration is a testament to RIT's commitment to providing students with a comprehensive education that meets the demands of a rapidly growing sector.
Kyle Dunno, department chair of Packaging and Graphic Media Science at RIT's College of Engineering Technology, highlights the significance of this move. He states, 'For generations, our print and graphic media program has been instrumental in preparing students for leadership roles in printing, publishing, and media sectors. As print technologies have advanced, we've embarked on a journey to honor our legacy while equipping students with the skills needed for future success.'
The integration maintains the core strengths of print education at RIT while expanding its relevance in the packaging and converting industries. In 2022, the College of Engineering Technology combined its print and packaging science departments to better reflect the growth in the package printing sector. This strategic alignment has fostered collaboration between department leadership, faculty, industry partners, and alumni to develop a curriculum that stands out for prospective students and graduates alike.
The new curriculum ensures that RIT graduates are well-prepared to lead in manufacturing, materials science, color management, and package printing technologies. Conventional and digital printing processes remain integral to the curriculum, covering premedia, production workflows, converting technologies, process control, and variable data printing. These skills are applied to various packaging solutions, including folding cartons, flexible packaging, labels, corrugated fiberboard, and metal decoration.
Dunno emphasizes, 'This integration represents a natural progression for our programs. As the industrial world embraces integrated packaging solutions, automation, and sustainability, we're honored to preserve the rich heritage of print education at RIT while embracing innovation in one of today's most dynamic industrial sectors.'
S. Manian Ramkumar, dean of the College of Engineering Technology, underscores the importance of this integration. He says, 'By intertwining core competencies from print and packaging, we're ensuring our students gain hands-on, future-oriented experiences that align with the evolving needs of the workforce.'
RIT's commitment to industry-relevant applied science and engineering education is further solidified through the continued provision of testing, research, and training services by packaging and print faculty-researchers and professional staff. These services will remain uninterrupted, ensuring a strong partnership with companies and professionals who rely on RIT's expertise. Additionally, RIT will continue to serve as the certifying body for Idealliance's G7 and G7 Plus color calibration programs, supporting the industry's adoption of globally recognized color quality standards and processes.
In conclusion, RIT's integration of print and graphic media into packaging science is a strategic move that honors the past, embraces the present, and shapes the future. It ensures that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and rapidly evolving packaging industry.
