Now you’re ready to work!

3rd Level: The Apprentice

Yes, you will be doing busy work—real work on real projects needed by the foundry. This is true for many reasons. First, it is a real service to the foundry. Two, that will push your capabilities at this point. Three, it is the best way to learn and to add professional level production skills at professional speed. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy the work. If not, you might be in the wrong field.
If you have ideas, you are supposed to be sharing these ideas in your daily email communications. Proposals are welcomed at any time.

Monthly projects are required:

• There is a list of small projects for the foundry: These will be assigned to you. You can request other projects on the list in addition to your assignments.
• You are encouraged to make proposals: If you have an idea for an extension to a family of an existing foundry font, please submit it. We’d rather have you working on projects you have a desire to complete.
• All work done as an apprentice belongs to the foundry: You will be listed as a designer for your portion, but the income belongs to the foundry to pay for your training.

This is where you have been headed.

It may take a year to arrive. An apprenticeship is two years minimum. Normal completion times are probably closer to three or four years. This is a time of intensive growth and skill development, much like the final year at online colleges and universities. By the end of your apprenticeship you will be producing professional fonts—ready for release. The typographer will always be there for critiques, questions and guidance. Any releases as foundry product under his watch are absolutely subject to his personal veto. There is no real appeal process, but questions will be answered and reasons given. It will not be a personal decision but a business decision.