The Phoenix Challenge Foundation has announced the winners of the 2022 College Flexo Competition – the 15th edition of the event – which was held virtually on February 19. This year’s event welcomed several schools to participate, and is an example of dedication, problem solving and perseverance in tough environments. All the participating teams and students have shown their caliber of talent and poise as they aim for careers in the flexo and package printing industry.

This year, the teams were prepared and delivered exceptional work in all disciplines, says Foundation chair Bettlyyn Krafft. A variety of small businesses from across the country were featured, each with unique needs, provided a foundation for all the students to experience real-world business situations. This year’s final results are as follows:

First Place – CalPoly – San Luis Obispo, California
Second Place – Illinois State University – Normal, Illinois
Third Place – Appalachian State University – Boone, North Carolina

The winning team, CalPoly, was featured during this year’s 2022 FTA Annual Forum in their FQC session to allow a broader audience see and hear about the hard work and success these students have experienced.  The winning project and presentation showcases their presentation and printed packaging to build awareness across the flexo industry. In addition, FTA Forum visitors will have a chance to learn more about the Phoenix Challenge and their educational programs and competitions.

Regarding this year’s competition, Krafft says, “I continue to be inspired, impressed and frankly just blown away by the college competition. The students take it up several notches every year. This year, with all the difficulties surrounding the pandemic, these students went even further above and beyond. This is why I do this, to help and watch these students thrive!!”

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation relies solely on the support of converters and suppliers in the industry.  Donations and volunteers are crucial to driving our industry’s future. The 2022 College Competition thanks the following sponsors:

–     Anderson & Vreeland          –   Harper Corporation
–     TLMI                                    –   All Printing Resources
–     Berry Global                        –   3M
–     Sun Chemical                      –   Rotometrics / Maxcess
–     Pamarco                              –   Graymills
–     Flexo Concepts                    –   JR Cole