The International Sign Association and The Wrap Institute in partnership with Justin Pate will build on the successful ISA Wrap Experience to provide ongoing programs that further expertise and advocacy for wraps professionals.
One of the largest-scale initiatives will be a series of educational events and hands-on training at ISA International Sign Expo 2020, held April 1-4 in Orlando. More details on the specifics of those events will be released in the coming weeks.
ISA International Sign Expo 2020 is just one element of a multi-pronged relationship between ISA, The Wrap Institute and Pate, widely regarded as the foremost authority on vehicle wraps. In addition to the tradeshow, the agreement will allow the two organizations to work together on education events.
ISA’s Digital Badge program, which has been well adopted by sign, graphics and visual communications companies, will expand to include skills needed most by wrap professionals. Those who pursue Digital Badges in wrap-related areas will be able to set themselves apart from their peers by showing a commitment to continuing education. ISA and Affiliated Association members will be able to receive a discount on education offered through The Wrap Institute.
The relationship grows out of an extremely successful venture during ISA International Sign Expo 2019. The ISA Wrap Experience featured 81 attendees participating in rounds of hands-on competition combined with education, all led by Pate and his group of highly talented instructors.
“As more companies expand into providing wraps as part of their comprehensive marketing lineup, it only makes sense that ISA and The Wrap Institute offer more information and products in this field,” said Craig Campbell, director of strategic initiatives for the International Sign Association. “We believe this partnership will help both organizations’ missions of building business and expertise for our members.”
ISA and The Wrap Institute also will work on topics of research and advocacy, since wraps often are misunderstood by local communities who respond with aggressive regulations.
“The keys for continuing to grow the wrap industry in the next few years are threefold,” Pate said. “One, continued education on product and install knowledge with training both hands-on and streaming. Two, creating crossover revenue opportunities between traditional sign makers and the customization/protection side of the industry (PPF, color change and tint). And, third, working diligently with local businesses and consumers to make them both more aware of wraps and of their benefits in terms of marketing, cost savings and the environment. I have devoted most of my career to building wraps as a profession and this relationship with ISA will only allow that to expand.”
Pate and Campbell discuss the partnership in a video posted at signs.org/wrapfurther.
ISA International Sign Expo 2020 will be April 2-4, with pre-conference education April 1. It will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Registration will open later this fall at signexpo.org.
