Some of you may already be aware of this, but let me delve a bit deeper into this significant moment. Three months ago (April 2024), marked the end of a remarkable 37-1/2 year career in the printing industry, as I retired. It was a journey filled with challenges, growth, and countless memories that have shaped my professional life.
Recently, I stumbled upon a fascinating item at a flea market that instantly sparked nostalgia within me. For a mere $15.00, I acquired a piece that holds immense sentimental value - the first equipment I ever operated. This precious find turned out to be a glow-in-the-dark Darkroom Timer designed for a darkroom, complete with two plugs on its left-hand side, one for a safety light and the other for an enlarger.
Reflecting back to the beginning of my journey in 1987, at the tender age of 19, I embarked on my career, beginning as a Photolab Technician. Those early days were spent in the darkroom, meticulously developing negatives using trays of chemistry, manually timing each step, and working with a large upright camera set in the dimly lit environment. It was a time of learning, experimenting, and mastering the intricate art of film development for the printing company I was part of.
Throughout my professional journey, I transitioned seamlessly from mastering opaquing, pasteups, film stripping, and layout techniques – once considered essential skills but now relegated to the annals of history – to delving into the intricate world of plate making. This marked a significant turning point that led me down the path of lithography press operations, where I honed my craft and expertise in handling a myriad of bindery and finishing machinery.
As I delved deeper into the realm of lithography press operations, I found myself immersed in a world where precision, attention to detail, and technical finesse were paramount. The meticulous process of plate making, the rhythmic hum of the press machinery, and the artistry involved in ensuring each print was of a set quality became the cornerstone of my career.
Over the years, I became a seasoned trade press-operator and finisher, navigating the complexities of the printing industry with finesse and expertise. From managing intricate lithography press operations to overseeing the seamless integration of bindery and finishing processes, I found myself at the forefront of a dynamic and ever-evolving industry.
As I reflect on my journey, I realize that my passion for the art of printing has been the driving force behind my success. The satisfaction of seeing a project come to life, from its initial conception to the final printed piece, has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation throughout my career. Embracing the challenges, mastering the technologies, and evolving with the industry trends have not only shaped my professional trajectory but have also enriched my understanding of the art and science of printing.
Small ma & pa shops, union shops, government shops, periodicals like The Citizen, commercial shops, trade shops, medical institutions such as The Medical Council of Canada and College of Physicians & Surgeons, political entities at both provincial and federal levels including Conservative, Liberal, NDP, and Green parties - the spectrum of shops and organizations is vast and diverse. From the cozy familiarity of family-run businesses to the structured environment of union shops, each entity contributes uniquely to the economic and social fabric of society. The government shops ensure essential services are provided, while periodicals like The Citizen play a crucial role in disseminating information and shaping public opinion. Commercial shops drive innovation and cater to consumer needs, while trade shops uphold craftsmanship and tradition. Medical institutions safeguard public health and uphold professional standards. Political organizations, spanning across different ideologies and levels of governance, play a pivotal role in shaping policies and representing the interests of the populace. Whether big or small, each shop or organization contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of society, reflecting the diversity and complexity of human endeavours.
As my old skills gradually became obsolete in the ever-evolving landscape of industry and technology, I found myself at a crossroads where I had to make a pivotal decision - either resist the change and risk being left behind, or embrace the transformation and grow alongside it. Opting for the latter, I embarked on a journey of continuous learning and adaptation, navigating the turbulent waters of innovation and progress.
With each new challenge that came my way, I seized the opportunity to advance and morph, honing my abilities and expanding my knowledge base to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. Like a surfer riding the crest of a wave, I rode the tide of change, leveraging it to propel myself forward rather than being swept away by its force.
Through this process of evolution, I not only upgraded my skillsets but also cultivated a mindset of resilience and flexibility. I learned to embrace uncertainty and ambiguity, viewing them not as obstacles but as stepping stones towards growth and development. By embracing change and remaining adaptable, I not only survived in the face of technological disruption but thrived, carving out a niche for myself in an ever-shifting landscape.
In essence, my journey of evolution and adaptation has been a testament to the power of embracing change, transforming challenges into opportunities, and continuously reinventing oneself to stay ahead of the curve. By surfing the wave of change rather than fighting against it, I have not only kept pace with the industry but also emerged stronger and more capable than ever before.
Throughout my entire 37-1/2 years of professional experience, I have been wholly dedicated to the field of printing and publishing. Unlike many of my peers who may have explored other industries such as trucking, retail, or hospitality, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to the world of print. I firmly believe that my unwavering focus on this industry has allowed me to continuously adapt, grow, and enhance my skills and talents in alignment with the ever-evolving technological landscape.
Over the years, I have witnessed numerous shifts and advancements in printing and publishing technologies. From the traditional methods of typesetting and offset printing to the digital revolution that has transformed the way content is created and distributed, I have embraced each change as an opportunity to expand my knowledge and capabilities. By staying attuned to industry trends and investing in my professional development, I have been able to not only keep pace with technological innovations but also stay ahead of the curve.
My dedication to continuous learning and skill development has been instrumental in my ability to thrive in an industry that is constantly evolving. As new technologies emerge and consumer preferences shift, I have remained adaptable and agile, always ready to embrace change and leverage new tools to enhance the quality and efficiency of my work.
Through my unwavering commitment to printing and publishing, I have not only honed my expertise but also cultivated a deep passion for the craft. Each project presents a new opportunity for creativity and innovation, driving me to push the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of print. This enduring passion, coupled with my dedication to growth and adaptation, has been the cornerstone of my success in the industry, allowing me to carve out a unique and fulfilling career path that I am truly proud of.
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus was right:
The only thing constant is change...
...and if you're not riding the wave of change, you're under it.
Change is a natural part of life and, although it can be perceived as a destructive force, it doesn't always have to be that way. Throughout my entire career, I have encountered numerous individuals who were quick to label my industry as dying. However, I firmly believe that this is not the case. The real issue lies in the reluctance of certain individuals and companies to adapt and evolve alongside the rapid advancements in technology.
Instead of viewing change as a tidal wave of destruction, we should strive to see it as an opportunity for growth and innovation. Embracing change allows us to stay relevant and competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. Those who resist change risk falling behind and ultimately drowning in the currents of progress.
By fostering a culture of adaptability and openness to change, we can navigate the shifting tides of our industries with confidence and resilience. It is essential to recognize that change is not the enemy but rather a catalyst for transformation and new possibilities.
It is indeed a subject open to interpretation whether my retirement can be considered definitive. The inception of my publishing company, Broken Keys Publishing & Press, back in 2015 marked a significant milestone in my professional journey. Despite officially stepping away from the traditional print industry, I found myself seamlessly transitioning into the realm of digital publishing, a testament to my enduring commitment to innovation and progress. The establishment of this company can be viewed as a natural progression of my lifelong dedication to staying abreast of technological advancements and embracing change. By nurturing Broken Keys Publishing & Press beyond my retirement, I have not only sustained my passion for the written word but also demonstrated my unwavering resilience in adapting to new paradigms within the ever-evolving landscape of publishing.
When I first embarked on my journey in the industry many years ago, the landscape was dominated by offset printing, which had recently surpassed letterset printing as the preferred method. At that time, my knowledge and experience were primarily centered around offset printing, making it seem like the only viable process in existence. However, the truth is far from that narrow perspective.
Fast forward to the present day, and we witness the rise of Digital Printing as the new frontrunner, poised to eclipse the traditional dominance of offset printing. This shift marks a significant turning point in the industry, with digital technology revolutionizing the way printing is done. Those who fail to adapt to this change, whether by embracing digital printing or by undergoing reeducation and evolution, risk being swept away by the wave of transformation.
The transition from offset to digital printing represents not just a change in technology, but a fundamental shift in the entire printing paradigm. Embracing this evolution opens up new possibilities, efficiencies, and creative avenues for those willing to explore and innovate. As the industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve and adapting to emerging trends will be key to remaining competitive and relevant in a rapidly changing market.
As the wave of change crashes and transforms into a barrel, it signifies not just a shift but a profound transformation. This metamorphosis is not merely a fleeting moment but a reflection, a looking-glass into what lies ahead, offering a profound opportunity for growth and evolution. In this pivotal moment, you stand at a crossroads with two distinct paths laid out before you. The first option is to embrace this wave of change, to ride it with courage and adaptability, harnessing its power to propel yourself forward into uncharted territories of success and fulfillment. The second choice, however, is to resist, to be engulfed by the overwhelming force of change, risking being swept away in its turbulent currents.
Embracing change requires a willingness to let go of the familiar and venture into the unknown, to confront challenges with resilience and an open mind. It demands a mindset that is receptive to innovation, creativity, and continuous learning. By embracing change, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities, where growth, progress, and self-discovery await.
On the other hand, choosing to resist change can lead to stagnation, missed opportunities, and a sense of being left behind. The refusal to adapt can result in being overwhelmed by circumstances beyond your control, ultimately leading to a sense of being drowned by the relentless tide of change.
In essence, the decision to embrace or resist change is a defining moment that can shape your future. By choosing to embrace change, you position yourself as a proactive agent of your destiny, ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Conversely, by resisting change, you risk being left behind in a world that is constantly evolving and transforming. The choice is yours to make: will you ride the wave of change to new horizons, or will you be swept away by its powerful currents?
I choose the first.
As true Print-on-Demand processes and technology continue to evolve and revolutionize the publishing industry, Broken Keys Publishing & Press has remained at the forefront of these advancements. Embracing the latest innovations in print technology, we have adapted our approach to meet the changing demands of the modern publishing landscape. By leveraging the capabilities of Print-on-Demand, we have been able to streamline our production processes, reduce waste, and offer a more efficient and sustainable publishing solution.
With Print-on-Demand, we are able to cater to the needs of both authors and readers by providing a flexible and cost-effective publishing model. Authors can now see their work in print without the need for large print runs or excessive overhead costs, making publishing more accessible to a wider range of writers. Readers, on the other hand, benefit from a wider selection of titles that are readily available and can be printed on demand, ensuring that even niche or specialized topics are easily accessible.
Furthermore, by embracing Print-on-Demand technology, Broken Keys Publishing & Press has been able to expand its reach and audience. With the ability to quickly produce and distribute books, we can now cater to a global market, reaching readers in distant corners of the world with ease. This has not only allowed us to grow our publishing catalog but has also enabled us to connect with a diverse range of readers and authors, fostering a vibrant literary community.
In essence, the integration of Print-on-Demand processes has not only transformed the way we publish books but has also opened up new possibilities for collaboration, creativity, and accessibility in the world of publishing. As we continue to embrace and advance with this technology, Broken Keys Publishing & Press remains committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional publishing and shaping the future of the industry.
So, I figuratively offer my hand for you to take. Are you ready for this journey? Are you ready for new frontiers of print and publishing? New opportunities? New adventures? New stories? New books?
Broken Keys Publishing & Press asks you,
are you ready to take this journey of discovery?
Let's see what dreams we can make come true!
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