Steve Romaine
As you may have gathered by some of our previous posts, we think we have a pretty good group of folks working for us at Flexpress. So we decided to take that pride in our employees one step further today and let you get to know one of them a little bit better. Many of you know Steve as our man about town and go-to guy for creative solutions for all things related to digital print and paper. We decided to sit down with Steve and asked him about a different subject: himself. We think you’ll find him just as warm and engaging as we do. Ladies and gentlemen, without further ado, allow us to introduce Steve Romaine.
What is your official title at Flexpress?
Digital Print Consultant
How long have you been with Flexpress?
One year as of September 1.
What did you do prior to working with Flexpress?
I have 30 years experience in the paper specification business. That experience has given me a greater understanding of just how many possibilities there are to make digital printing really pop and stand out when used on papers that most people don’t even realize are available for digital presses.
The creativity of the digital compatible papers the mills are sending to the markets today is so exciting! An explosion of colors, finishes, and new papers have come to the market place allowing designers and digital printers to become more creative and responsive to their clients.
Speaking of creative, you have a graphic design degree, correct? What made you want to pursue that degree and how/why did you switch?
Yes, I have a graphic degree from the University of Memphis. About 95% of the way into my degree I realized I did not want to stay in an office all day. So I finished my degree and went into paper specification. It allowed me to be involved with creative people and help them come up with solutions to fit their needs while still getting out of the office and into different environments every day.
How does that background in graphics help you help your customers?
I know how much training, dedication and time it takes to receive that degree. Many business people think graphic designers are strange and not business people, but in my experience in paper specification, sales and printing I know that is just not so. I know them to be good business people who have to have a different way of looking at the world. It is called CREATIVE.
How would you describe your duties at Flexpress? What is your favorite part of your job?
My answer to the two questions is basically the same for both. Thinking about what has to be done and doing it. It is about working towards SALES NOW and planning for long-term growth at the same time, for both Flexpress and my customers alike. Having the ability to look at markets, and putting a plan together to achieve these goals and then doing it.
Let’s talk about digital printing specializations for a moment. What is your take on Variable Data Printing?
This is the most creative of all the digital processes. Your message can be tailored to a particular group or just one person.
Are there any other instances when you think digital printing really outshines more traditional printing methods?
Absolutely, packaging! Digital printing is known for its ability to process very small orders of say 50, 75 or 100 units at competitive prices. This applies to packaging as well. Small orders of packaging may be used for product testing or for “boutique” private labeled goods or similar applications while keeping costs down.
What excites you most about the future of printing?
It will still be here meeting the changes and challenges of the future. It will continue to handle the needs and wants of the graphic industry, advertising, designers, business and other needs we don’t even know about yet.
Ok, enough shop talk. What do you like to do outside of work?
Be with my family. I love to watch my children and prepare them to meet the future. So far, so good.
Are there any organizations that you belong to?
Farmers Branch Chamber of Commerce, Farmers Branch Education Committee, Farmers Branch Rotary Club, Dallas Ad Club and Fort Worth Ad Club. I believe very strongly in community involvement and being a part of the solution.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Whatever it is, it is well hidden.
Oh, come on. What one thing would people be most surprised to find out about you?
I am a bird watcher.
So there you have it folks. Steve Romaine – paper connoisseur, digital printing knowledge bank, family man, pillar of the community, and bird watcher. If you have more questions for Steve about these or any other things drop him a line at Steve@flexpress.com. He’ll be more than happy to hear from you.
