What was your first job in the newspaper business?

I worked part time as a photo lab technician and made plastic plates with a scanagraver during high school at Paddock Publications, owners of The Daily Herald. In 1965, after graduating from the University of Iowa, I joined the paper as a staff photographer.

What do you like most about your job?

Working with the people that make the paper happen — from computer technicians and ad builders to press operators and the packaging and distribution staff — is very rewarding.

What do you like least?

Equipment and process breakdowns that disrupt the workflow and overall productivity are always frustrating.

What was The Daily Herald’s most recent purchase/installation?

We are building a new production facility to house new MAN Roland RegioMAN presses. We believe these presses will save on consumable expenses and deliver a high-quality printed product. I also anticipate MAN Roland’s training and support helping us fine-tune our production process.

What is the biggest challenge The Daily Herald is facing in production?

Staff and training. Finding and hiring people who want a career in newspaper printing is becoming more difficult. During tough economic times, like now, allocating time for training on press and quality issues is very hard. We need to make the job opportunities more appealing in salary, benefits and career potential.

What trend are you keeping your eye on?

Computer-to-plate. We plan to install CTP in our new facility, and are watching the developments in laser technology, particularly the violet laser. In addition, digital workflow software for use with CTP is developing, and will be essential in our new installation.