Sign MFG Day Tool Kit

Step 1: Register with ISA (Now)

If you haven’t already done so, make sure to submit the form above, Host a Sign MFG Day. This will allow ISA to connect you with teachers who ask about scheduling tours and provide additional support as the day approaches. Plus, you’ll be recognized along with other sign, graphics, print, wrap and visual communications companies.

Step 2: Contact Teachers (ASAP)

Start early with this step – as soon as possible. This may seem early, but teachers will need to incorporate the day into their plans, perhaps secure buses and budgets to make the trip. 

Link to sample letters

Don’t forget to follow up. Emails get lost. Teachers get busy.  Consider sending them links to the video “Discover a Career in the Sign & Graphics Industry” (French and Spanish language versions available too). This may help them see how their coursework can lead their students into a career.

Step 3: Plan Your Event (At least one month out)

Map out the event logistics. Determine what additional help you’ll need from your staff, maybe greeters and parking assistance.  

Pick a few stops that represent key stages in the production process and allow you to demonstrate the progress a product makes through the shop (i.e. design, welding, electrical wiring, etc.). Where will visitors get the best view? Can they hear you? Which of your team members are the most enthusiastic about their work and comfortable explaining what they do and why it is important to the process and the company?

Feel free to show one or more of the ISA videos linked above. If you’re doing so, do you have a TV or video screen available? 

Gather adequate resources. Make sure you have enough PPE on hand (if needed). Prepare information packets and branded items or giveaways. Hungry students always appreciate a snack.

Step 4: Invite local officials and community leaders (At least one month out)

Expand the knowledge about your company and the careers you offer by reaching out to representatives from workforce boards and community college leaders. Check the list for contacts for your region:

US State Career and Technical Education Directors

Members of your local Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Workforce Development Board members

Remember your local media and elected officials, too. 

Step 5: Prepare Your Tour (At least two weeks out)

• Walk the tour route. Remove any obstacles or hazards. Give the shop a good cleaning, too.
• Consider what messages you want to convey – remembering that many may not be familiar with the sign and graphics industry.
• Give your employees a role, too. Many are proud to show what they do. In fact, participating companies often cite employee morale as a key reason they continue to participate.
• If possible, plan a hands-on activity. Show your guests why your facility is special, how your machinery works, how different items are put together, what new technologies are being used and your workers’ overall productivity. Show how a product, such as a channel letter, is made and then pass it around for the students and guests to feel and see the construction. Active participation engages and involves students in the process of the tour.
• Consider a dry run.  Greet fictional guests at the door and walk them through as if Sign MFG Day is today! This will help work out any kinks in your plans and make your employees feel comfortable speaking with the tour.
• Hang a welcome sign. This is a great chance to showcase exactly what you do. If possible, address the students or schools specifically.

Step 6: Enjoy the Day 

Take photos and videos. Connect with students and teachers. Discuss potential ways to work together, whether that is developing an internship or job shadow. 

Step 7: Share on Social

Step 8: Keep the Momentum Going

Sign MFG Day is intended to build a pipeline to a future workforce. So don’t think of it as just one day on the calendar. Instead, look at this as an introduction to the teachers and students who will one day work in your shop or office or in the field.  Consider a follow up email or note to participating teachers, thanking them for coming and pursuing any future opportunities.