By Mallory Kennedy

From Raleigh to the coast, students are coming to Lenoir Community College to enroll in the Graphic Arts and Imaging Technology Program (GAIT).

This program focuses on providing students with training in graphic design, digital printing, web design, photography, offset lithography, screen printing, and other areas in the printing, publishing, and packaging industry.

“We are only one of three GAIT programs in the NC Community College System,” says Program Chair, Dwight Downie. “We take pride in that we have been providing students training in graphic arts for more than 40 years.”

To meet the needs of recent demand in the digital marketing world, the College has added a new program Advertising and Graphic Design pending approval of the North Carolina Community College System with plans to accept students in the Fall.

“We are excited to see this program come to life. We have seen the need for digital media specialists and graphic designers increase over the years,” Downie said.

This program is designed to give students the skills and knowledge necessary to create visual materials that will inspire, inform, and captivate consumers.

As a graduate of the GAIT program and a successful creative business owner, Brandon Potter of Potter Photography & Design and Magic Mile Screen Printing agrees that the need for graphic designers is at an all-time high. “The Advertising and Graphic Design program is needed in today’s digital world. Businesses and industries are looking for skilled graduates to fill the need for graphic designers and marketing specialists,” Potter said.

The Advertising and Graphic Design program will complement the GAIT program in that students will be able to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Graphic Arts and Imaging Technology, and by taking just four additional classes, students can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Advertising and Graphic Design as well.

For more information, visit LCC GAIT.