The printing trade develops intellectually, as a printer must be well read in the very nature of his occupation. His work is skillful, but not extremely arduous, and the eight-hour day is practically standard. Wages in the various branches average from $15 to $40 per week, with special and executive positions commanding higher salaries.
Future of the Business
This is an age of rapid industrial changes, and new inventions may render certain occupations almost obsolete in a night. It is unwise to enter some lines of industry because the demand is lessening, the business decreasing, and the future uncertain. This is not the case, however, in regard to printing, which is a growing business. The use of printing is increasing in every field of industry. In so far as human judgment can determine, it will continue as an essential industry, and twenty years from now there will be unmeasurably more product than there is today.
Products of Printing
Printing has been aptly designated “the art preservative of all arts.” The product of the printer’s trade is so well known as to require little comment. Books, periodicals, newspapers, commercial forms, advertising literature, and other products of the press form a competent part of the business and social structure of all civilized nations, and are integral parts of the daily life of practically every individual. Hardly any other field of human activity has a product so universally used.
Organization of the Industry
Of all the trades, printing is one of the best organized, both on the part of employers and of employees. There are few strikes, as arbitration agreements are in effect, and work is seldom interrupted. The various organizations use their dues to much better advantage than in financing internecine struggles.
The employers’ associations maintain many activities for improving conditions in the business, including installation of cost systems, maintenance of trade schools, advertising service, and provision of educational courses.
The unions pay old-age pensions, death benefits, and sick benefits. They provide homes for the aged and indigent, sanatoriums for the sick, and instruction for apprentices.
All these organizations aid morally and financially in promoting education for the craft.