TAGA NextGen: Innovate, Apply, Inspire

March 25–28, 2025 • Boulder, Colorado

The TAGA conference will take place in the heart of Boulder, CO with multiple sessions March 25 to 27 and then concluding with a tour on the morning of March 28. The sessions contain a mix of the latest research papers as well as those cover topics with a broad technology perspective from best practices to the latest innovations providing information and solutions for today, as well as helping companies plan ahead.

A key component of the event is the student participation. The different chapters will be showcasing their competition entries and will be presenting them on the main stage. Meet some of the brightest minds who will be forming some of our future leaders in the industry. There will also be opportunities to look for your next generation of employees!

To give an introduction to Boulder, it is said well by Visit Boulder: "Boulder is a perfect balance of urban and outdoors. Known for its stellar food scene, arts, an always-exciting downtown and more outdoor activities than you can count, the city is just 30 minutes northwest of Denver, where the Rocky Mountains meet the plains."

Papers cover a full range of topics impacting the industry. An emphasis for 2025 will be on papers related to sustainability, packaging, printed electronics, automation, and best practices. Papers can also cover such topics as ink, substrates, color, visualization, displays, materials, curing, process control, data management, workflow, security, lean manufacturing, 3D printing, novel applications, fundamental science, and software and computer developments related to all types of printing processes

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TAGA NextGen Sessions

How to Build a Sustainable & Repeatable Print Business (Across Multiple Locations)

Cory Sawatski, Vice President of Purchasing and Operations, Alphagraphics

As a leader in operations and purchasing for a printing major franchise with over 250 locations Cory Sawatski knows what it takes to build a repeatable and sustainable business across multiple locations. In this session, he will discuss sourcing, via sales & sustainability, availability, and the systems required to make it all work.
What is AI and How Can it Help my Business

Nick Benkovich, Chief Product Officer - Print ePS, eProductivity Software

This session will address what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is and how it encompasses various technologies like machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing. There are many benefits that can be achieved by companies now including automation of routine tasks, predictive maintenance, enhanced print quality, personalization and design, improved customer engagement and cost savings. Learn how implementing AI in your print business can streamline operations, enhance creativity, and provide a competitive edge in the market.
How to Effectively Visualize Color

Steve Upton, President, Chromix

Session description coming soon.
Scientific Results of How Precise and Accurate Different Printer Types and Models Perform in Real Production

David Hunter, Principal, Chromachecker Corporation

What is the difference between how an offset press is capable of reproducing consistent and accurate color versus a digital press? Our database has millions of measurements from specific printing devices running in production over years of time. We will share actual anonymous data showing how different printing devices are capable of reproducing color for both process color and spot color applications.
Exploring Augmented Reality for Capital Equipment Sales, Marketing, and Technical Support

Ben Lubin, Solutions Development Analyst | ColorPath SYNC Solutions & Don Schroeder, Senior Director, Professional Services and Technical Solutions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation 

This session explores the ever-expanding frontier of augmented (and virtual) reality, specifically in the context of capital equipment in print. Like the rise of virtual meetings and remote work, augmented reality shows promising results in reducing travel and shipping costs. It can be used to enhance and expedite sales and marketing strategies. The same can be done in technical environments to train resources or even open up more do-it-yourself maintenance for owner/operators. 
2025 Sustainability and Consumer Perception: Paper, Packaging & Print - Trends & Truths

Jules Van Sant, Executive Director, Two Sides North America

Discover the comprehensive insights of new data compiled from the 2025 Two Sides North America Trend Tracker Report before it is released to the general public. This report has been conducted bi-annually and includes insights on the current and evolving attitudes around paper and sustainability, shedding light on how consumer perception has or has not changed. Results offer insights into what influences individuals to drive their buying and engagement decisions and how they might form these opinions.

Rooted in historical research, the Trend Tracker report examines the correlation between consumer attitudes, the impact marketing and Greenwashing have on their buying decisions, and how the whole industry, local and regional stakeholders, and individuals within the greater production cycle can factually address the narrative. 

To respond to these data points, Two Sides North America also gathers and will present additional relevant outside research and data from trusted sources to the mix. Explore key findings, including energy use digital applications, water usage, impact and disposal, and forestry facts that contribute to the greater sustainability narrative of paper, paper-based packaging, direct mail, and printing.

Attendees will leave with updated data and facts to pay forward to their communities and language to incorporate into their marketing and conversations. 
Spectral Versus Trichromatic Color Management – Application and Benefits

Radovan Slavuj, Color Scientist & Elie Khoury: Founder Alwan Color Expertise, Alwan Color Expertise

In this session, you will learn how spectral encoding and spectral processing can optimize color management and printing processes. Based on state-of-the-art spectral and color prediction models to all major printing technologies in CMYK and multi-color modes, spectral data processing is demonstrated to be superior to (ie conventional CIELAB or CIEXYZ) color management, by reducing metamerism, with significantly higher prediction power with the same amount of training data. It will also be shown that spectral prediction can electively enable the automation of color management without a need for dedicated printing sessions as printing conditions change
Update on Standards and close look at ISO 12647-2 where Near Neutral fits

Don Schroeder, Senior Director, Professional Services and Technical Solutions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation 

This sessions will provide an up to date look at all ISO TC 130 standards being worked on and updated. It will focus on the most recent issue around the ISO 12647-2 updates that are to “include” the Near Neutral (G7) press alignment method along with the current TVI method. Don will have samples for review and lead a very interactive discussion relating to the inclusion of a “Unified Print Condition” and where that stands moving forward.
Improving Cost Estimating Opportunities Within Cutting Table Technology

Celeste M. Calkins, Assistant Professor, Illinois State University

In communicating with companies across the U.S., one asset/cost center that is often hard to estimate is cutting tables. This is due to a variety of reasons but includes: the speed differences across cutting and scoring tools, the material being cut (e.g., paperboard, corrugate, wood, metal), the intricacy of the designs, the shape of the designs, and the sizing of the designs. In this session, Celeste Calkins reports on research exploring how the size, shape, and intricacy/complexity of a design plays into the time necessary to complete the cut(s)through the testing of different designs and substrates.
How Color Inkjet Web Can Match Offset Lithography at Production Runs

Henry Freedman, Partner, Image Test Labs; Peter Crean, Partner, Image Test Labs; Peter Dundas, Partner, Image Test Labs; Eric Zeise, Research Scientist

This presentation focuses on the methods used to make the world's first critical color production press run that matches the output from an inkjet web press with that from an analog offset sheetfed press on plain coated offset paper. The authors will share the methods, color measurements, and statistical process analysis used in the press run, demonstrating that the consistency and stability of the inkjet digital substitute process exceeded the consistency of the offset press. Attendees will receive printed samples and a white paper containing the technical details. 
Understanding Fluorescence – Measurement, Simulation and Correction

Max Derhak, Principal Scientist, Onyx Graphics

Optical brighteners are often used to make yellowish paper or media appear whiter and brighter, resulting in a product that is much more appealing. The operative aspect of optical brighteners is that they use fluorescence to convert ultraviolet light (invisible to human vision) to blue (visible) light. This poses problems for establishing color management profiles using a spectrophotometer to measure spectral reflectance to derive colorimetry of printed colors under arbitrary light sources on media in that the derived colorimetry doesn’t match the actual color appearance, resulting in undesirable color casts in the final printed output using color management.

This session looks at measuring spectral reflectance versus measuring spectral fluorescence and demonstrates that colorants derived from special reflectance of surfaces that have fluorescence can be invalid. A method of simulating spectral fluorescent measurements will be shown, based on an extension of Substrate Correction used in SCCA by first applying the approach to spectral reflectance and then spectral fluorescence. 
The Impact of Commercial Laundering on Brand Color Durability on Printed Textiles

Erica Walker PhD, Associate Professor & Amanda Bridges, Assistant Professor, Clemson University

This session shows the results of a study that examines the impact of the commercial laundering process on durability across the three printing processes and three textile types. This will mimic how athletic apparel, such as team uniforms, are laundered which tends to use harsh chemicals and a wider range of temperatures for washing and drying which can negatively impact the print and the fabric. This study aims to determine the accuracy and durability of the tested brand colors when applied to various textiles using all three printing processes to guide brand license holders and manufacturers ensuring the production of repeatable brand-accurate prints for team uniforms.
Expanded Color Gamut in Printing: Applications, Challenges, and Overcoming Obstacles

Dr. Krzysztof Krystosiak 1, Dr. Martin Habekost 1; Dr. Kai Lankinen 2, , Krsytosiak: Krzysztof Krystosiak; Habekost, Professor; Lankinen: Lecturer, 1 Toronto Metropolitan University 2 Tampere University of Applied Sciences

Expanded Color Gamut (ECG) in printing is a technique that extends the range of colors beyond the traditional CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) process by adding additional inks, such as Orange, Green, and Violet (OGV). ECG is a step towards a more sustainable future for the printing industry. By allowing printers to omit spot color inks, ECG eliminates the need for a large ink inventory of pre-mixed spot colors and since it is fixed color palette printing, standard primary colors can be kept in the printing units, leading to less frequent print unit wash-ups and allows even the co-printing of jobs, resulting in less use of resources e.g. organic solvents, and lower substrate consumption. 

The primary objective of the comprehensive study on which this session reports is to gain a deep understanding of the current state of ECG adoption. This thorough diagnosis will guide the development of strategic recommendations for advancing ECG integration.
The Relationship of 2D Barcode Size and its Ability to Decode

Dina Vees, Associate Professor, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo

2D barcodes, such as QR codes and data matrix codes are widely used by brand owners for encoding information in an easy-to-use machine-readable format. These barcodes allow more data storage than traditional 1D barcodes and the global supply chain is moving that way. GS1, the barcode standards development organization, worked with the global industry to set the end of 2027 to transition from 1D to 2D barcode at point-of-sale (POS) or point-of-care (POC).

The move from 1D to 2D barcodes affects digital, offset, and packaging printing companies. All retail products will soon have a 2D barcode that contains a great deal of information. This study addresses issues related to the amount of data encoded, its resulting physical dimensions, and the smallest size that can be printed to allow consumers to decode the barcode.
The Potential Role of AI in Transforming Digital Prepress Workflows for Print Production

Carl Blue, Department of Graphic Communications, Clemson University

Artificial intelligence is refining ideation processes and digital prepress workflows with the potential to boost creativity and efficiency within digital operations. Learn how AI's automation capabilities can streamline project workflows, leading to more effective responses to digital design challenges and problem-solving scenarios. The presentation covers practical AI applications that can be seamlessly incorporated into existing practices to enhance the quality of outputs and shorten the time-to-market. Further, this discussion will provide attendees with implementable AI strategies for their digital media and design teaching frameworks. 
A Study of Advanced Smart Packaging Technologies in Plastic Waste Sorting and Recycling

Yu Ju (Mandy) Wu, Associate Professor, Appalachian State University

The life cycle of plastics, from production to disposal, illustrates a linear economic model – produce, use, and dispose – which is unsustainable given current production and consumption rates. This session will explore innovative sorting technologies - enhanced optical sorting, digital watermarks, and AI-based waste management - highlighting their potential to transform plastic waste management and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Development of Bio-Based Adhesives Utilizing Alginates for Leaf Edge Bonding in Bookbinding Applications

Lukas Jenner, Doctoral Student, Hochschule der Medien, Stuttgart, Germany

In the production of bookbindings, the use of petrochemical-based adhesives is common. However, these adhesives have been linked to reduced product quality, difficulties in the flotation of the recycling process, and significant environmental contamination. Biopolymers represent a promising alternative to address these issues, one being the biopolymer alginate, derived from brown algae. This session investigates the suitability of this natural material as an alternative adhesive for book bindings.
Evaluation of Printability of Screen- and Pad Printing Inks via High-Viscosity Piezo Inkjet technology

Antonia Götz PhD student & Stefan Güttler, Professor, Hochschule der Medien, Stuttgart, Germany & Jan Christoph Janhsen, Group Manager Additive Manufacturing for Photopolymer, Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA, Stuttgart, Germany

Screen and pad printing remain well-established in industrial applications of labeling and product embellishment, despite the high degree of manual labor required, thanks largely to the wide range of inks, often with high viscosity, available for these processes. Now a novel inkjet printhead technology has been developed which can jet fluids with a viscosity of up to 250 mPa∙s. This opens the possibility to a whole new range of fluids that can be processed via inkjet. This session covers a study to evaluate the feasibility of piezo inkjet printing with screen- and pad printing inks. 
Optimizing Sublimation Transfer Printing: Influence of Temperature and Dwell Time on Different Synthetic Fabrics with a Focus on Color Metrics and Delta E Evaluation

Ramya Potnis, Graduate Assistant, Clemson University

This session focuses on the influence of temperature and dwell time to evaluate the color quality of the sublimation transfer prints across different synthetic fabrics. The reported study comprised 11 fabric samples, printed at three different temperatures and dwell times. This study measures and evaluates color metrics such as LAB values, dot gain, and Delta E values to assess the color accuracy of the printed colors. The findings provide valuable insights to enhance the color accuracy, improved color reproduction and consistency of the sublimation prints across the synthetic fabrics used as samples in this research, and benefits the textile printing industry.
Advances in Recycling Strategies for Multilayer Food Packaging: Current Approaches to Address Non-Recyclable Packaging Systems

Volker Jansen, Professor and Academic Dean, Hochschule der Medien, Stuttgart, Germany

Approximately 42% of synthetic polymers are used in packaging, often as multilayer flexible packaging (MFP) to enhance properties such as migration prevention, thermal stability, strength, and flexibility. These composites are non-biodegradable and accumulate in landfills rather than decompose. In this session, you will learn about recent MFP recycling advancements and strategies and the urgent need for sustainable MFP recycling solutions, with a roadmap for future developments in MFP waste management. It emphasizes that while these innovations provide promising pathways, ongoing development is essential for meeting environmental targets. Ultimately, the goal is to create packaging that upholds product integrity, aligns with sustainability goals, and meets the demand for environmentally responsible production and consumption. 
Evaluating Product Variation in Color Gamut Volume Estimation across Measurement Devices for Improved Analysis

Bilge Altay, Ph.D. Paper and Printing Science, Printed Electronics, Packaging & Bruce Myers, Associate Professor, RIT

Automated spectrophotometers have made color management strategies practical in many prepress and proofing applications. This session examines the accuracy and variability of color gamut volume estimation using multiple spectrophotometers across standardized color charts. By evaluating discrepancies between devices, it identifies their impact on substrate analysis in printing, packaging, and coatings. Results offer insights into device precision, aiding print and packaging organizations in quality control and material evaluation where accurate color representation is essential. 
A New Light Source for Photostability Testing Shows Promising Results

Sean Fowler, Senior Technical Director; Andy Francis, Marketing Director, Bill Tobin, Technical Marketing Specialist and David Duecker, Technical Marketing Specialist at Q-Lab Corporation

Photostability testing is critical for understanding image permanence in printing. Traditional xenon arc chambers simulate sunlight but involve high costs and operational complexity due to their broad spectral output and thermal effects. This study evaluates a novel fluorescent UV lamp (TUV-421) alongside standard methods, demonstrating its ability to produce realistic ink fading at reduced cost and complexity, offering a promising alternative for the graphic arts industry
Quantitative Visual Analytics for Optimizing Brand Identity in Packaging Design

Asaya Shimojo, Data Science and Development, Konica Minolta

Brand identity (BI) serves as the embodiment of a company's values and characteristics. The study discussed in this session develops a machine-learning framework to quantify the effects of visual design elements on brand identity (BI) in packaging. Using VGG16 and Grad-CAM, the research analyzes key features like logos, shapes, and contrast, providing objective metrics for brand recognition. The findings highlight how machine learning can assist in maintaining BI consistency while adapting to market trends, offering brand managers data-driven tools to optimize packaging design for improved consumer perceptions and loyalty.
Effects of Paper Properties on Color Gamut of Dry-Toner Electrophotography

Renmei Xu, Associate Professor, Ball State University

How do paper properties impact color gamut in toner-based digital printing? Hear what a team at Ball State University learned in their study, using a Konica Minolta AccurioPress C2070 with an inline IQ-501 Intelligent Quality Optimizer. EFI Fiery™ Color Profiler Suite was used to create color profiles for eight paper substrates, five coated and three uncoated. The G7 method was used for calibration and 1,617 patches (CGATS IT8.7/4) were printed and measured inline. Profiles of these substrates were then evaluated and compared in CHROMiX ColorThink™ Pro to find out how paper properties such as surface smoothness, porosity, formation, brightness, etc. affected color gamut.
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Hotels

TAGA NextGen takes place at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Boulder, CO.

Attendees have two options for hotel accommodations, including the Embassy Suites and the adjacent Hilton Garden Inn property.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder
Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder

2601 Canyon Boulevard, Boulder, CO 80302

Rate: $229 USD per night

Event Hotel

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder is located off US-36, a half mile from the University of Boulder. Pearl Street Mall and Downtown Boulder are just five minutes away and 10 miles from Eldorado Canyon State Park. Enjoy the two-story fitness center and mountain views from the rooftop pool year-round.

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Hilton Garden Inn Boulder
Hilton Garden Inn Boulder

2701 Canyon Boulevard, Boulder CO 80302

Rate: $214 USD per night

Adjacent to Event Hotel

The Hilton Garden Inn Boulder is on the corner of Canyon Blvd. and 28th Street, one mile from the University of Colorado Boulder and the shops of Pearl Street Mall. Chautauqua Park and Boulder Creek Path are 10 minutes away. Our luxury spa is open seven days a week and offers “all things face.”

Book Now

Make your reservation at the discounted group rate until Monday February 24, 2025.

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