PRINTING United Alliance is grateful to serve its members who make such significant impacts on the printing industry. Through our Member Spotlights, we continue to recognize our members, and help our community get to know their peers better, both professionally and personally. The following is a Q&A with Alliance member Jason Ahart, vice president of production operations at Moss.
How and when did you enter the printing industry?
I entered the printing industry in 1999 in Maine. I had a friend who worked for Moss and said it was amazing— he wasn't lying. Although I was initially turned down for the position in an interview with Marilyn Moss, I was given another chance several months later, eventually securing the role. Before that I was selling suits for big and tall people.
Are there markets or industries outside of your traditional offerings you are looking to add or have added? If so, what?
Traditionally recognized as a leader in tension fabric within the exhibit industry, Moss has strategically expanded its presence into diverse markets, including retail, events, and corporate environments spanning the U.S., UK, and Europe. Sustainability is a consistent driving force across these markets with Moss offering some of the most sustainable product lines available in the industry.
What would you say have been your company’s biggest accomplishments and challenges?
After overcoming the challenges presented by the pandemic, we consolidated our locations and established a 180,000-square-foot plant in Franklin Park, IL. This facility, designed to house over 200 of our skilled place makers, serves as a testament to our commitment to fostering exceptional working conditions and sustainable operations. As we press forward, we remain unwavering in our dedication to upholding high-quality standards, and extending our commitment not only across the nation, but also within our facilities in the UK and Europe.
What are future goals for your operation/where do you see your company headed in 5 years?
We want to continue to be a leader in driving sustainability both in the U.S. and internationally.
Why did you decide to join the Alliance and what resources do you plan to utilize through your membership?
We became a part of The Alliance to collaborate with industry peers and partake in the exchange of sharing new ideas and best practices. So far, we have utilized the iLEARNING+ platform, explored reports and surveys on the industry's economic landscape, and actively participate in conferences to stay at the forefront of developments.
What activities/hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
After an initial, less-than-successful attempt at paddleboarding a decade ago in Hawaii, I decided to give it another shot recently and it's been an absolute blast. I'm continuously drawn to learning new things and embracing fresh experiences.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I'm excited about the upcoming technological advances and innovations in our industry. Printers are achieving higher speeds, greater efficiency, and producing less waste than ever before.
For more information on Moss, visit their website at https://www.mossinc.com/.