High Tech Training for the Next Generation of Signmakers

Tom Lamont is making sure students at Valley Tech have the skills to enter the workforce.

Tom Lamont is proud to be an instructor at one of the top 25 high schools in the U.S., Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School in Upton, Mass. Each year, more than 1,000 students from 13 surrounding towns apply for just 320 spots.  “The locals call it Valley Tech,” says Lamont, “Parents throw big parties when their kids get in.”

Lamont had started his own sign business right out of art school.  When his own son was accepted at Valley Tech in 2014, Lamont offered to teach the kids how to hand letter, pinstripe, gold leaf, and airbrush. As he toured the facility, he noticed a 30" Roland (Booth 4616) printer/cutter in the corner.

“Of course, I knew right away what it was — I’ve had very positive experiences using Roland inkjets,” says Lamont.  “The instructor said they were looking for someone to teach the kids digital printing.” Lamont applied, and the rest is history.