What is the Technical Solutions Group?
We formed our Technical Solutions Group (TSG) to encompass our full range of expertise in all critical areas of the flexo process. This team is made up of industry professionals dedicated to being up to date on new technologies, armed with the last in diagnostic tools, and experienced in problem-solving that can achieve sustainable results. All of the TSG team members are FIRST Level III certified.
Who are We?
Allen Sanders - VP Business Development - After graduating from Clemson University with a Masters Degree in Graphic Communications, Allen began his career in the packaging world. With over 25 years of experience in the printing industry, including Screen Printing, UV Rotary Letterpress, Offset Lithography, Narrow Web Digital, and Flexographic printing. He has held positions in prepress, press operator, production manager, and technical sales support. For the last 16 years, he has focused on supporting customers' prepress needs with hardware/software and flexographic platemaking.
Catherine Haynes - VP of Strategic Initiatives - Over 30 years of experience in the printing industry including Offset Lithography, Gravure, and Flexographic printing. Catherine has held positions in nearly all phases of the flexo printing process, including a technician and training developer for Clemson University's Corrugated Program, a mid-web F&K press operator, laminator operator, pressroom manager, graphic coordinator, and manager for a flexo plant. Currently, a qualified G7® Expert with IDEAlliance for more than eight years and is certified as an "Expert Level Press Operator" by the NCSS (National Council for Skill Standards) in Graphic Communication. Regular speaker for Clemson University's ECG seminars as well as other seminars. She graduated with honors from Clemson's Graphic Arts program. She has been a speaker for FTA, TLMI, and other industry organizations, a session and forum chairperson for the FTA Forums, and a judge for FTA's annual printing awards. The Director of Training has conducted numerous training programs, from basic to advanced, on various aspects of flexo printing, including press operator certifications and FlexSys™ simulator training and customized [continuous] training curriculums for Flexo printers.
Katherine (Treadaway) Wolfgram - Technical Support Specialist / Business Development - Katherine graduated with honors from Clemson University's Graphic Communications program in 2019, with minors in Packaging Science and General Communication Studies. During her time at Clemson, she received a First Place Rossini Scholarship for her research in photopolymer plates, as well as the Elsie Bissel Award, Sheriff Award, PICA Design Award, and the GC Faculty Award of Excellence. Katherine also served a term as President of Clemson's TAGA chapter, where the team won awards in Production Quality and Attendee's Choice in 2019. She has several years of experience in prepress and Technical Service for flexographic printing. Katherine has presented her research at the FTA, published an article in Flexo Magazine, and was recently on a committee to update the photopolymer plate section of the FIRST book.
John Williams - Senior Equipment Service Technician - John has been in the field of maintenance for over 30 years. He started his studies at Dekalb Tech. Where he began building his skill set in the maintenance field. His desire to provide quality and reliable service has been nurtured to become his greatest strength. John brings his technical background and abilities to serve our customers when they are challenged with printability, throughput, and sustainability goals. His aptitude for machinery and extensive maintenance knowledge makes him an essential part of the team.
Jesse Schraft - Technical Solutions Group Member - Jesse is a dedicated professional graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. He has developed a robust skill set focused on designing, troubleshooting, and installing prepress platemaking equipment. He has worked with various prepress equipment and supply manufacturers worldwide, showcasing his ability to collaborate effectively on a global scale. Known for a detail-oriented approach and technical expertise, Jesse has successfully navigated complex machinery challenges, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency and client satisfaction in the industry.
Why APR's Technical Solutions Group?
- Our focus and years of experience in assessment, diagnostic services, and training for the flexographic package printing industry allows us to enhance our clients' team.
- Our full range of technical services assist you in identifying existing production conditions and developing cost-effective solutions.
- Our understanding of both industry "pains" and business requirements allow us to assess and develop opportunities for improvement faster and more cost-effectively.
- We are the industry leaders in utilizing innovation and state-of-the-art technology to be more effective over the long term.
- We deliver analysis and perspective that can be built into a definable and measurable plan for process improvement.
- We deliver this plan in pre-defined time frames and within budgetary constraints to achieve sustainable results.