What is Sign Manufacturing Day?
Philadelphia Sign, part of the PSCO Sign Group, hosted their first Sign Manufacturing Day at the Corporate Headquarters located in Palmyra, NJ in 2019.
Sign Manufacturing Day is an exciting event designed to introduce students and young people to the rewarding career opportunities available in the sign manufacturing industry. During this immersive experience, students shadow professionals in various departments of the manufacturing plant and gain firsthand insight into the daily operations of a signmaker.
The event includes facility tours that encourage students to explore existing and diverse career opportunities while showcasing the importance of skilled trades. By highlighting alternative career paths, Sign Manufacturing Day aims to inspire students who may not have considered careers outside of traditional academic routes. As noted by the U.S. Department of Education, career and technical education (CTE) programs often lead to higher employment rates compared to other educational pathways—and significantly more likely employment in fields relevant to their studies.
At PSCO Sign Group, we’re committed to spreading awareness about these opportunities and providing resources for those interested in pursuing a career in sign manufacturing.
The Importance of Career Awareness in Sign Manufacturing
The sign manufacturing industry offers a wide range of roles that cater to different interests and skill sets. From graphic designers who create visually compelling signage to fabricators who bring those designs to life, every step of the process requires specialized expertise. Installers ensure that signs are properly positioned, while customer service representatives and sales associates help businesses select solutions tailored to their needs. By showcasing these diverse career paths during Sign Manufacturing Day, Philadelphia Sign helps students envision how their unique talents can contribute to this thriving industry.
Industry Impact
Skilled tradespeople in sign manufacturing play a vital role in shaping community landscapes. Whether it’s creating storefront signage for small businesses or producing large-scale installations for corporate clients, their work enhances both functionality and aesthetics in public spaces. The signs they create not only help businesses stand out but also contribute to the visual identity of neighborhoods and cities.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Signmakers
PSCO Kieffer, part of the PSCO Sign Group, is proud to participate in impactful initiatives like the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program, which provides high school juniors and seniors with hands-on work experience alongside related classroom instruction. This program equips students with valuable skills and career insights while offering them exposure to cutting-edge technology and real-world projects.
At PSCO Keifer, apprentices are immersed in various aspects of signmaking, including design, fabrication, laser cutting, and installation. Each student rotates through different departments based on their interests while being mentored by experienced professionals. This approach ensures that apprentices gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry while building confidence in their abilities. As Mark McCallen, VP of Operations at PSCO Keifer, states: “This program is a win-win—students gain valuable skills and industry experience while we benefit from their fresh perspectives and creative energy. Our ultimate goal is to give students a chance to learn about our trade and offer a career opportunity upon graduation.”
Benefits of Early Industry Exposure
Early exposure through programs like YA helps students develop technical expertise while fostering critical problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities. These experiences prepare them for long-term success by equipping them with practical knowledge and professional connections within the industry. Moreover, such initiatives address a growing demand for skilled workers—a need that continues to rise as industries like manufacturing evolve with new technologies.
Combining Efforts for a Stronger Future
Sign Manufacturing Day complements PSCO’s apprenticeship programs by sparking interest among students who may not have previously considered careers in skilled trades. Together, these initiatives create a robust pipeline of talent ready to enter the workforce with confidence and expertise.
By offering both exposure through events like Sign Manufacturing Day and structured learning opportunities through apprenticeships, we help to ensure that young professionals are fully prepared to meet industry demands. These efforts not only benefit PSCO Sign Group by cultivating a skilled workforce but also contribute positively to the broader sign manufacturing industry.
Interested in a career or partnering with our teams at your school? Check out our national footprint of sign manufacturing facilities here and connect with us today!