There is no doubt of a need in modern signmaking for a highly trained, multi-skilled and flexible workforce and achieving this is one of the main aims of the ESF.

The ESF has taken a lead role in the development of a wide range of structured training programmes designed to help equip and qualify workers for their roles in today's sign industry. The emphasis is on a framework of education, competency and application of training that can be set as a minimum standard requirement for all employees and employers in the sign industry.

The benefits to the Signmaker are:
• Up skilled employees
• Higher quality workmanship
• Faster, more productive and efficient workers
• Less downtime as with inexperienced employees
• A better return on investment
• More profitable work
• A more attractive proposition for customers seeking to buy signs from competent, qualified and professional sign companies

The benefits for the Employee are:
• Improved capabilities and skill sets
• Adaptability in the workforce
• Better understanding and application of signmaking and installation techniques
• Increased job satisfaction
• Progressive career path
• A skilled, competent and qualified employee will always be preferred over someone who isn't.

By pulling together ‘best practice’ and established working educational programmes, the ESF is helping Member Country Associations to achieve an approved and recognised standard that is fit for purpose in today’s sign industry. Recognising and participating in such a training ethos, will set those participating companies above others and will clearly demonstrate the advantages and benefits of choosing that sign company for its qualified and competent work force.

ESF will endeavour to ensure that messages posted on this site in connection with its International Educational Exchange Programme are from bona fide sign companies who have the resources to host reciprocal visits but ESF can accept no responsibility for the detailed arrangements made privately between willing parties. The role of ESF is to provide a means of introducing like-minded sign companies but thereafter all details and reassurances are the specific and exclusive responsibility of the companies involved. Similarly ESF can offer no advice in respect of labour laws or insurances required when travelling overseas, such details being the responsibility of the two parties involved in the exchange.

David Catanach
Chair – ESF Education Working Group