Expo Bound: In Search of Ideas, Camaraderie, and Demos

Tina Wolfgram

The PRINTING United Expo — September 10-12 in Las Vegas — is just around the corner, and attendees are eagerly preparing for days filled with learning, networking, and inspiration. As we approach the Expo, we're excited to present a series of Q&A interviews with attendees. They'll share their reasons for attending the PRINTING United Expo, the knowledge they hope to gain, and what they're most looking forward to at the event.

We talked with Tina Wolfgram, manager of Printing Services at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, to learn about her Expo plans.

What made you want to attend this year's Expo? 

I am excited to attend this year’s Expo because our shop needs a variety of equipment, and the Expo will allow me to be up close to several different models from different vendors to compare without needing to travel to multiple demo rooms.

What ideas did you take away from last year's Expo that helped your in-plant?

Last year my focus was on a small footprint flatbed printer. We did purchase a Xante 33 shortly after the Expo last year as I was able to compare different units in one location.  I also networked with other in-plant managers, buyers and operators and brought back ideas that we have put into action at our shop.

What products or services are you most looking forward to seeing? 

Demos. I love the Demos! I like to see how things work. I am also interested in seeing folders and other bindery machines.

Why is attending the Expo better than going to a vendor’s demo center to see equipment?

Being able to see multiple vendors’ equipment in one location is hands down better than going to individual vendor’s demo centers.  It saves travel and time and allows one to explore options they had not thought of.  These expos have such a wide variety of vendors and equipment.

Is networking with industry peers an important reason for attending the Expo?

Networking with others that are in my same industry is very important. To be able to discuss issues or ideas with others is invaluable. Soak up as much as you can. You never know when a great idea may come around that you can implement into your shop.

How do you hope attending will impact your business/career moving forward?

By attending this year’s Expo I am hoping to learn new ideas to bring in more revenue to our shop, explore bindery options, and maybe find a new monochrome production printer.

To register for the Expo, please visit PrintingUnited.com.