3M Preferred Graphics Installer
Geek Wraps Certified Graphics Installer
Testing at Geek Wraps University
| Location: | Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| Testing Administrators: | 3M Graphics Authorized Tester from Geek Wraps. |
| Time Required: | 3 days (includes one day of prep) |
| Cost: | $1,500 per participant |
| Contact: | Telephone: 954-351-1501 training@geekwraps.com |
The Geek Wraps Certified Graphics Installer designation is only available to those who attend the 3-day 3M Preferred Graphics Installer Test event at Geek Wraps University and go on to pass the 3M Preferred Graphics Installer test and receive their credentials from 3M for both Fleet and Windows, Walls and Floors. The 3M Preferred Graphics Installer test will be administered by Geek Wraps University Designated Examiners/3M Testers.
Geek Wraps Certified Installers also receive an ongoing 25% discount on most Geek Wraps manufactured equipment and tools on future orders. (Offer may expire without notice.)
2023 Dates
Train & Test *September 11-15 — SOLD OUT |
Test & Day of PrepSeptember 13-15 — SOLD OUT |
2024 Dates |
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Train & Test *TBD — 4 slots left |
Test & Day of PrepTBD — 2 slots left |
To secure testing dates a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the invoice total is required, with the remainder of the balance due two weeks prior to the start of testing. Deposits and balance payments are non-refundable. Dates are changeable with two weeks advanced notice and payment in full. NO-SHOW DAY OF TEST FORFEITS ALL PAYMENTS.
* The cost of training and testing together is $2,500.
About the 3M Preferred Graphics Installer Test
The 3M Preferred Installer test is intended for experienced professional installers, with on-the-job experience in multiple full-graphic wrap installations, and preferably those who have attended 3M Advanced Installation Training.
The 3M Preferred Installer test is performance based and it consists of hands-on and written portions. It’s designed to evaluate the installer’s skills and knowledge in a variety of installation situations.
It is strongly recommended that testers complete 3M Advanced Installation Training prior to testing.
This is a very rigorous test and therefore is not suitable for rookies.
Written Test:
Installers must possess detailed knowledge of a number of 3M films and their warranted usage, durability and physical characteristics. They must be very familiar with 3M installation techniques, tools, and materials used during installation on common substrates.
Installers must also be familiar with specific 3M films, including 1080/2080, 160, 162, 180, and many more. In addition, installers are expected to be familiar with a number of instruction bulletins, the 3M Wall Test Kit, as well as various 3M installation tools, etc.
Hands-On Test:
The films and substrates required to complete during the test, are those commonly encountered by installers. While the installations are not particularly unusual or difficult, they will be judged critically. Show-quality work will achieve high scores. Imperfections and errors such as wrinkles, bubbles, etc., will result in deductions on an installer’s score.
Installers will be required to install a variety of films, including prespaced lettering, multi-panel full color sheets (screened and digital), and more. Installation is to be performed on numerous substrates, including aluminum with rivets and hinges, corrugated with rivets, vehicle compound curve areas, and many more.
Installers are also expected to use the appropriate installation tools for each application, including the proper squeegees, rollers, brushes, etc.
Scoring:
Installers begin with a score of 100 points. Deductions are made for imperfections or errors such as wrinkles, bubbles, loose edges, tented rivets, inadequate cleaning, exceeding the allotted time for each station, etc.
A score equal to or above 85% is acceptable and qualifies as passing for both the written and hands-on portions. Upon booking the test dates students are provided with a list of bulletins and other products mentioned in the written portion of the test.
About the Geek Wraps Certified Designation
In addition to the 3M Preferred Graphics Installer test, installers are tested on Geek Wraps tools and techniques.
Day of Prep
Experienced installers who have extensive knowledge of 3M techniques, tools and materials will receive a Day of Prep the day before testing starts. A Day of Prep gives the tester access to all the test stations and materials so they can practice and prepare for the test only, there is no training provided on this day.