3M is rolling out its new installer program. The program aims to provide installation companies and individual installers with increased skill, credibility and visibility in the marketplace. The program will train, recognize and promote highly qualified, professional graphics installers and companies.

“The growing volume and complexity of applications, substrates, curves, contours and textures has increased the need for highly skilled installers and companies. 3M is meeting that need with this new comprehensive training and testing program,” said Tim Boxeth, marketing manager, 3M Graphics Market Center.

According to Boxeth, both national and local brand owners are capitalizing on the advertising value of large-format graphics, but success depends on a great design and print, the proper high-quality materials and expert installation. “Within these critical elements, poor installation can have an adverse effect on the entire job and reduce the impact for the brand owner.  That is why 3M, in conjunction with key partners, will train and recognize more installers and companies on more applications,” said Boxeth.

There are now two options from 3M.  Both add value in the graphics supply chain, provide options depending on the installer(s) approach, and will be promoted by 3M equally.

1.  The 3M Certified Graphics Installation Company program is a continuation of the successful program administered for 3M by the United Application Standards Group (UASG).  This option is for the installation company that would like to be recognized by 3M and UASG for not only its installation skills/knowledge, but also its business practices.  Certification requires meeting certain business requirements and passing a hands-on and written test.  Testing is available at 3M Center in St. Paul, MN.  Visit UASG.org or 3Mgraphics.com for more information.

2.  The 3M Preferred Graphics Installer program is a new program designed for the individual installer that would like to be recognized by 3M for their installation skills and knowledge.  To receive the title, the installer must successfully complete a hands-on and written test and meet some other basic requirements.  Testing is currently available at 3M Center in St. Paul, MN or Lowen Corporation’s 3M Graphics Authorized Installation Testing Facility in Hutchinson, KS. Visit 3Mgraphics.com for more information.

3M also offers preparatory training for the tests at multiple locations throughout the U.S.  Preparatory training is available in cooperation with 3M Technical Service, Wrap Experts and Lowen Corporation.

Leave a Reply