In today’s printing and packaging industry, standing still is not an option. Leading Forward is about having the vision to look ahead, the confidence to navigate changing terrain, and the determination to keep climbing toward what’s next. Like any successful climb, progress requires preparation, the right tools, trusted partners, and a willingness to adapt when the path changes. For today’s industry leaders, that means embracing new technologies, developing talent, strengthening teams, and making strategic decisions that drive lasting results.
Set against the inspiring backdrop of the North Carolina mountains, the PICA Fall Management Conference will challenge you to strengthen your leadership foothold, discover new strategies for growth, and connect with peers who are navigating many of the same challenges. Together, we’ll explore how to navigate change, develop talent, and drive results—moving forward one step, one challenge, and one summit at a time.
The PrintForce Educator Track brings that same forward-thinking approach to the classroom. Designed specifically for graphic communications educators, the track will provide practical tools, emerging industry trends, and valuable insights to help instructors stay connected to today’s printing and packaging industry. By strengthening educators and expanding their knowledge, we can better prepare students with the skills, confidence, and industry awareness they need to launch successful careers in print.
The PrintForce Educator Track at the PICA Fall Management Conference will be held at the Hilton Biltmore Park in Asheville, NC on November 6-8, 2026.
Through generous printing industry donors, the PICA Foundation is pleased to once again offer the Educator Accommodations Grant which includes hotel room and tax for two nights. High school graphics teachers are eligible for this grant. To apply for this grant, please complete the Educator Accommodations Grant Form.
SAVE YOUR SPOT
Reservation Cut Off Date: October 12, 2026
ROOM RATE:
Enjoy exclusive group rates of just $185++ per night for King beds.
RESERVATION WEB LINK:
Hotel reservations must be made before October 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. using our personalized booking link that can be found here or call (866) 407-5713 and mention group code PICA Fall Conference 2026 to guarantee PICA group rates.
Please be reminded that reservations must be made on or before October 12, 2026
CONFERENCE CANCELLATION POLICY
A $25 fee will apply if conference registrations are cancelled on or before October 12. After that date, no refunds are allowed; substitutions are welcome.
Individuals must cancel their own hotel reservations by calling the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park at (828) 209-2700.
LOCATION
43 Town Square Blvd, Asheville, NC 28803
HOTEL INCLUDES:
Complimentary Self-Parking
Complimentary Internet Property-Wide (Guestrooms and Meeting Space)
Complimentary Airport Shuttle from Asheville Regional Airport
This year, educators won’t just learn alongside one another—they’ll join industry professionals for several dynamic sessions, creating exciting opportunities to exchange ideas, build connections, and explore the future of print together.
GENERAL SESSION:
Building a Stronger Print Workforce Together: Industry, Education, and Workforce Leaders in Conversation
Saturday, November 7, 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.
This interactive session brings together key stakeholders from across the printing industry, education, and workforce development systems. Participants will engage in a collaborative discussion to identify shared challenges, opportunities, and actionable strategies for strengthening the talent pipeline. The session will focus on what is needed to better prepare, attract, and inspire young people to pursue careers in printing and graphic communications, while aligning industry needs with educational and workforce initiatives to ensure long-term workforce sustainability.
The Nuts and Bolts of UV/LED Printing: Equipping Educators with a Turnkey Classroom Curriculum
Saturday, November 7, 9:45 – 10:45 a.m.
Drawing on nearly 40 years of capital machinery experience across sheetfed offset and inkjet sectors, this fast-paced session provides graphic arts educators with a comprehensive overview of modern UV and LED curing technologies. Attendees will walk away with a ready-to-use, high-level curriculum outline and practical insights needed to successfully introduce these cutting-edge processes to the next generation of Graphic Communications Professionals.
Speakers: Gary Rinehart and Andrew Henkel, Atlantic Graphic Systems
Beyond the Press: Unlocking Growth with Non-Printing Products and Services
Saturday, November 7, 11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
As the printing industry evolves, leading companies are expanding beyond traditional print to drive new revenue, increase profitability, and strengthen customer relationships. This session explores key findings from industry research on non-printing products and services (NPPS), highlighting how diversification can create new growth opportunities and position companies as full-service partners. Walk away with actionable insights to help your company expand its capabilities, attract new business, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Speaker: Dr. Ralph Williams, Middle Tennessee State University
Luncheon with Technology Spotlight
Saturday, November 7, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Join industry and educational professionals for a delicious luncheon while learning about four different innovations in the printing industry during the Technology Spotlight. Take a break and meet vendor professionals during the Vendor Fair and your One-on-One Meetings.
From Classroom to Career: Understanding Paper’s Role in Print
Saturday, November 7, 1:00 – 1:45 p.m.
Join Domtar for a discussion on the resources available to help students gain a deeper understanding of paper and its role in print. From paper basics and sustainability education to paper swatch books and samples, we’ll share tools that can support classroom learning and foster hands-on experiences. We’ll also discuss opportunities to collaborate to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge they need for success in the evolving print industry.
Speaker: Meredith Collins, Domtar
Building the Bridge: Preparing Print Students to Think Like Business Builders and Revenue Generators
Saturday, November 7, 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
As the print industry continues to evolve, the opportunity to more closely connect classroom preparation with real-world application has never been greater. Technical skill remains essential—and today’s graduates are best positioned when they can also think as contributors to revenue, efficiency, and organizational growth. In this highly practical breakout session, Dr. Kent Wessinger—a former university professor and workforce strategist—partners with print educators to explore a powerful next step in developing the next generation of talent. Drawing from research across 54,000+ participants in 34 countries, and real-world implementation inside companies of all sizes, this session introduces a simple but impactful shift: expanding student development from skill mastery to value creation. Educators will explore how to integrate business thinking into existing curriculum— helping students connect their technical expertise to customer outcomes, operational efficiency, and revenue generation. The session will also highlight ways to design classroom experiences that reflect real organizational dynamics, where accountability, collaboration, and innovation are not only taught, but practiced. This is not about replacing technical training—it is about building on its strong foundation. When students understand how their role contributes to growth, they graduate with increased confidence, relevance, and a competitive edge that employers immediately recognize. Attendees will leave with practical frameworks and actionable ideas to further align academic preparation with industry opportunity— strengthening the bridge between education and execution, and positioning their students not just for employment, but for meaningful impact.
Speaker: Dr. Kent Wessinger
Leveraging XMPie in the Classroom: Best Practices. Real-World Experience.
Sunday, November 8, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Discover how to successfully integrate XMPie into graphic communications and print education programs through proven teaching strategies and real-world classroom applications. This session explores the fundamentals of variable data printing (VDP), personalization, and data-driven marketing while demonstrating how to create targeted print and cross-media campaigns that align with today’s industry needs. Attendees will learn practical methods for integrating XMPie into existing workflows, including connecting design software with XMPie, managing databases, automating personalized content, and developing engaging student projects. Through real classroom examples and industry best practices, participants will gain the knowledge and hands-on approaches needed to prepare students with career-ready skills using technology widely adopted in the printing and graphic communications industry.
Speaker: Scott Houck, XMPIE
On Friday, November 6, educators will have the exclusive opportunity to tour BP Solutions Group, a leading Marketing Solutions Provider serving Western North Carolina. Family-owned for nearly a century, BP Solutions Group delivers print, packaging, labels, mailing, and fulfillment services, providing educators with a firsthand look at the technologies, processes, and career opportunities shaping today’s industry. Participants should arrive at BP Solutions Group, 24 Wilmington St., Asheville, NC 28816, by 3 p.m. for the 3:00–4:30 p.m. plant tour and are encouraged to visit the company’s website before the tour. Following the visit, participants will return to the hotel at approximately 5 p.m. to pick up registration materials. Dinner will be on your own, with an opportunity to enjoy the French Broad Terrace, weather permitting, or the Pisgah Pre-Function area before the 9 p.m. Dessert Reception.
Every successful climb is made easier with the right partners. At the Vendor Fair, educators will have the opportunity to connect with PICA sponsors and industry partners, explore the latest technologies and innovations, and gain valuable insight into the skills and tools shaping the future of printing and packaging.
From equipment and software to emerging technologies and classroom resources, the Vendor Fair offers a hands-on opportunity to see what’s happening across the industry and discover ideas that can be brought back to the classroom. Meet industry experts, ask questions, explore new possibilities, and build connections that can help keep your program current and your students prepared for the careers ahead.
Because preparing students to lead forward starts with educators who are connected, informed, and ready to embrace what’s next.
The Educator Track at the PICA Fall Management Conference comes loaded with bonuses, too, that are included in the cost of registration.
Vendor Fair
Connect with suppliers and trade shops at the Vendor Fair, where you can browse tabletop displays, learn about the latest products and services, and request samples to bring back to your classroom.
Swag Bag
Every Graphic Communications educator who attends the conference will receive a complimentary Swag Bag packed with useful resources, classroom materials, promotional items, and fun giveaways from PICA, leading industry suppliers, and printing companies. It’s our way of saying thank you for the important role you play in preparing the next generation of print professionals. You’ll leave with practical tools, valuable industry connections, and plenty of goodies to take back to your classroom—along with new ideas and inspiration to share with your students. Be sure to save a little extra room in your suitcase…you won’t want to leave anything behind!
2026 Wage + Salary Survey Job Descriptions
The annual Wage + Benefits Report is the most reliable labor management report in the graphic communications industry, with nearly 500 companies participating, employing more than 15,000 employees. The annual Wage + Benefits Survey includes job descriptions for more than 130 industry positions. Conference-participating educators will receive a PDF copy of the 2026 Job Descriptions Report, to use the diverse job descriptions of printing professionals in career exploration with their students.
Networking with Industry
Participating educators will have the opportunity to network with industry professionals during the receptions, Saturday Luncheon, Vendor Fair, and breaks.
Certificates of Completion
Educators will receive personalized Certificates of Completion.
PICA has arranged for discounted pricing on Christmas at Biltmore tickets for the conference weekend. The pricing includes admission + audio. Pricing for Friday and Sunday is $132 per person, and on Saturday is $137 per person (regular pricing is $180 per person). Please make your own reservations with time you want to visit using PICA’s Group Discount page here with the unique code pica26 (case sensitive).
Meredith Collins
As a passionate marketer and self-proclaimed paper nerd, Meredith Collins has over 20 years of experience in the paper industry. She has worn many hats during her career, including graphic artist, packaging designer and brand manager, and she’s excited to share her experiences with you.
Andrew Henkel
Andrew Henkel is a printing and packaging professional with nearly 40 years of experience in capital equipment for the graphic arts industry. His expertise includes sheetfed offset presses, finishing systems, and UV/LED inkjet printing technologies. In this session, Andrew will provide graphic arts educators with practical insights into today’s printing technologies, along with a ready-to-use curriculum that helps prepare students for careers in the modern, technology-driven printing industry.
Scott Houck
Scott Houck leads new business development and strategic partnership initiatives for XMPie. He has been involved in best-in-class software and cloud platforms in the printing industry from the early desktop publishing days as a prepress operator, trainer, sales support and sales leader including the last 20 years with XMPie. XMPie is Adobe’s most successful OEM partner leveraging InDesign Server to generate billions of hyper-personalized direct mail and other personalized communications for thousands of leading CXM companies all over the world. XMPie is now making personalized content available at scale and on-demand to empower better Customer Experiences through personalization without creative limitations – direct mail, digital, interactive, video. Scott starting in the printing industry with a Graphic Communications degree from Clemson University.
Gary Rinehart
Gary W. Rinehart is a graphic communications professional with more than 40 years of experience in commercial printing, digital production, print equipment, and workflow solutions. His background includes print production management, prepress, color management, digital workflows, and finishing systems. In this session, Gary will share practical, real-world insights and industry best practices to help graphic communications educators prepare students for successful careers in today’s evolving printing industry.
Dr. Kent Wessinger
Dr. Kent Wessinger is a workforce strategist and creator of the 3 WINS Operating System™, helping organizations address workforce challenges through practical, research-backed solutions. He works with manufacturing and printing leaders to improve retention, engagement, and organizational performance.
Dr. Ralph Williams
Dr. Ralph Williams is a professor of management at Middle Tennessee State University and former printing business owner. His research focuses on printing industry strategy, workforce issues, and non-printing services, and he contributes to Printing Industry Performance & Insights studies.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6
Your journey Leading Forward begins at the Registration Desk. Check in on Friday, November 6, from 5:00–6:00 p.m. or 8:30–9:30 p.m., or Saturday, November 7, from 7:30–8:00 a.m. Pick up your name badge, conference materials, and personalized schedule for your One-on-One Partner Meetings, then get your bearings before the conference officially begins. Consider it your base camp—a chance to prepare, connect, and map out the opportunities that await as you navigate change, develop talent, and drive results throughout the weekend.
Dessert Reception:
After a day of travel, reward yourself at the summit with PICA’s Chef’s Choice Dessert Reception on Friday, November 6, at 9:00 p.m. Unwind with an irresistible selection of handcrafted desserts while enjoying beer, wine, and soft drinks in a relaxed, mountain-inspired atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with industry friends, meet new colleagues, and begin building the relationships that will help you climb higher throughout the conference. Before the journey begins in earnest, take time to celebrate, recharge, and enjoy an evening of great conversation and sweet rewards.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7
Breakfast On Your Own
GENERAL AND BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
8:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
LUNCHEON with Technology Spotlight 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
RECEPTION
Saturday, November 7, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
DINNER
On your own (many restaurants within walking distance)
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7
BREAKFAST SESSION
Sunday, November 8, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Join us for a complimentary Ridgetop Breakfast which includes fresh bagels, brioche French toast with warm maple syrup and butter, cage-free scrambled eggs, Biltmore Farms cheddar, hashbrown casserole, applewood smoked bacon and sausage links, juices, coffee, and tea while we learn how to leveraging XMPie in the classroom.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION RATE: $275 PER PERSON
IMPORTANT DATES:
Deadline for the High School Educators Accommodations Grant by the PICA Foundation is October 2
Last Day to Register is October 30
Conference Registrant Fee includes:
- All conference programs and materials
- Swag bag
- Friday and Saturday receptions
- Saturday Buffet Luncheon
- Sunday Buffet Breakfast
- 2026 Wage + Salary Survey Job Descriptions
- Certificates of Completion
Please register by October 30, 2026 to ensure availability of conference materials.
