Printing's Alive

Welcome to Printing's Alive—the podcast that explores everything print and beyond! From traditional techniques to modern innovations, we dive into how print shapes industries, businesses, and our everyday lives

Empowering Print's Future: Bettylyn Krafft on Education, Engagement, and the Phoenix Challenge

S1 E65 • Apr 14, 2026 • 57 mins

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Bettylyn Krafft about her journey in the print industry and the impact of the Phoenix Challenge. They discuss differences between high school and college competitions, workforce development challenges, and student engagement. Bettylyn highlights the Phoenix Challenge's unique education program and the importance of industry involvement. They explore creating connections for workforce development, contributions from suppliers, and engaging students with hands-on demonstrations. The episode wraps up with success stories, addressing misconceptions about print, and a call to involve young people in the industry.

Key Points

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation has been instrumental since 1998 in inspiring and educating students to pursue careers in flexography through hands-on high school competitions and real-world college challenges.
Despite the significant need for workforce development in the print industry, only a small fraction of converters actively support initiatives like the Phoenix Challenge, highlighting a critical gap in industry engagement.
The dedication of educators like Betty Lynn Kraft and the support from key industry suppliers and volunteers are making a tangible impact by providing students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the print industry.

Speakers

Warren Werbitt

Host • 38%

Betty Lynn Kraft

Guest • 62%

Chapters

0:00	Introduction and welcoming Betty Lynn Kraft
2:10	Betty Lynn Kraft's journey in the print industry
3:52	Evolution and impact of the Phoenix Challenge
5:35	High school vs. college competitions
7:45	Challenges and solutions in workforce development
9:38	Educational paths and student engagement
11:59	Unique aspects of the Phoenix Challenge education program
15:55	Importance of industry involvement in education
17:51	Creating connections and pathways for workforce development
19:06	Major supporters and contributions from suppliers
23:06	Challenges in involving converters in educational programs
26:08	Engaging students with hands-on print demonstrations
28:19	The importance of tactile and merit badge learning experiences
31:28	Support from industry partners like Salem One
34:18	The misconception of print being dead
36:18	Success stories and alumni group creation
44:06	Collaboration with industry foundations and associations
47:49	Volunteer-driven efforts and financial challenges
51:35	Raising funds for high school competitions
54:34	Importance of engaging young people in the industry
55:52	Suggestion to seek funding from equity funds
56:14	Closing remarks and call to action

Transcript

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