Students from both Cal Poly’s Graphic Communication (GrC) and Industrial Technology, Packaging, and Entrepreneurship (ITPE) programs are using brand new equipment, provided by the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF). The new Zünd Digital Cutters G3 L-3200 and L-2500, estimated at $150,000 in value per machine, are allowing students to gain experience with industry-standard equipment in their labs.
ICPF President, Caitlin Salaverria said, “ICPF was thrilled to step up and secure placement of these much-needed machines at Cal Poly. This donation will allow the GrC and ITPE programs to support and grow their curricula and expand hands-on learning opportunities for students to prepare them for future careers in the printing and packaging industry. The donations allow for expanded knowledge and increased exposure for students pursuing various degrees, helping us with our mission to grow the labor force of the printed corrugated packaging industry.”
Cal Poly’s motto is “Learn by Doing”, says Colleen Twomey, chair of the Graphic Communication Department. “Our students learn skills by applying critical thinking and the use of tools to solve significant problems. Many of our students’ projects solve branding and packaging issues for companies in the local community through curricula and competitions”, she said. “Every single student in our program operates the equipment, according to Twomey. “The Graphic Communication program also has a student-run enterprise, University Graphic Systems, which provides print and design services for the campus and local community. The Zünd is an integral part of their ability to produce products. We are extremely grateful to the ICPF for recognizing the importance of equipment such as this, and the impact it has on student learning outcomes.”
“We are deeply grateful to the ICPF for its unwavering support,” said Javier de la Fuente, chair of the Industrial Technology, Packaging, and Entrepreneurship Area. “The addition of this advanced Zünd digital cutter is essential to our mission,” he added. “It enables students to design and develop sustainable, value-added solutions. Whether they are creating cost-effective systems, developing high-impact POP displays, designing inclusive structures, or innovating to delight consumers, this state-of-the-art equipment is a tremendous asset,” said de la Fuente. “The new Zünd digital cutter is a key part of our hands-on, project-based learning approach at Cal Poly, significantly enhancing our students’ educational journey and future opportunities. It also strengthens our packaging research and testing capabilities.”
“As an industry sponsored foundation, ICPF has worked for the last 30 years to advance student and faculty knowledge of the industry and to promote development of a highly trained workforce. We’ve provided over $13 million in donations of equipment and grants to universities and look forward to expanding our efforts over the coming years,” said Salaverria.