Clemson University Wins 2026 College Competition

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation, an advocate for flexographic education and workforce development, is proud to announce the winners of the 19th Annual College Competition. Held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin just ahead of the FTA Annual Forum and INFOFLEX, the event once again highlighted the innovation, skill, and collaboration shaping the future of the flexo industry.

Top Honors for 2026:

• Overall Competition: Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina
• Research: Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario
• Graphics: Illinois State University – Normal, Illinois
• Concept & Execution: Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo, California

Team Clemson was the overall winner of the 2026 College Competition. | Credit: Phoenix Challenge Foundation

This year’s competition brought together outstanding teams from Appalachian State University, Clemson University, Illinois State University, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Toronto Metropolitan University. Each team delivered impressive projects and presentations, demonstrating both technical expertise and creative excellence.

In addition to being recognized during the Forum’s annual banquet, participating students were introduced during the opening session as the industry’s next generation of professionals. The event also provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with leading suppliers and converters from across the flexographic community.

Judges and attendees alike continue to be inspired by the high caliber of talent emerging from the Phoenix Challenge Foundation programs. Through its mission of “Building Tomorrow’s Workforce,” the Foundation remains committed to fostering the next wave of industry professionals.

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation would like to thank our volunteer judges, educators, and industry experts! The Foundation couldn’t do it without you!

The Foundation is a 503(c) non-profit and has been “Building Tomorrow’s Workforce” for more than 29 years. 100% backed by industry sponsors and supporters.

Regarding this year’s competition, Foundation Chairman Bettlyyn Krafft said, “I continue to be inspired, impressed and frankly just excited to see the number of participants. It shows that skilled trades are needed and there is growing interest in flexo, label and package printing. This is why I do this, to help and watch these students thrive!!”

Source: Phoenix Challenge Foundation

The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Packaging Impressions. The views expressed within may not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Packaging Impressions.