Girls Who Print: Addressing the Leadership Gap in the Global Print Industry

Girls Who Print, a global professional network for women in the print, packaging, and graphic communications sectors, now operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Founded in 2009, the network currently supports more than 12,000 members worldwide through mentorship, education, and professional development resources. According to founder Deborah Corn, the organization’s mission is to provide structured pathways for women to overcome systemic barriers in a historically male-dominated industry.

Barriers to Female Leadership in Print

Women in the printing industry continue to face significant obstacles when seeking management roles. Data from LinkedIn’s 2025 global leadership report indicates that women occupy only 30.6 percent of leadership positions globally, despite representing a much larger share of the total workforce.

A primary challenge identified by Corn is the “broken rung” phenomenon, where women are promoted from entry-level positions to management at lower rates than their male counterparts. This structural delay often results in women taking an average of five years longer to transition into leadership roles. Industry observers note that while printing has evolved, deep-seated conscious and unconscious biases regarding authority and expertise still influence hiring and promotion decisions.

Creating Inclusive Career Pathways

Traditional corporate structures often fail to accommodate the realities of the modern workforce, particularly for women who frequently balance professional duties with significant caregiving responsibilities. According to Corn, many industry advancement pathways rely on informal networking events held after hours or rigid schedules that prioritize physical presence over measurable output.

To foster more inclusive environments, organizations are encouraged to adopt the following strategies:

• Performance-Based Evaluation: Shifting focus from hours spent in the office to the quality and impact of contributions.
• Flexible Scheduling: Offering remote work options and adjustable hours to better align with personal responsibilities.
• Intentional Advocacy: Encouraging women to actively build professional networks and advocate for their own ideas rather than waiting for formal invitations to lead.

The Role of the Advancement Resource Center (ARC)

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, Girls Who Print provides support through its Advancement Resource Center (ARC). This program serves as the cornerstone of the organization’s membership efforts, offering tools for career growth across all stages of professional development. Through partnerships with industry groups such as WAN-IFRA, the organization provides members with access to global thought leadership, specialized education, and technical resources.

Success for the organization is measured by the tangible career impact on its members. This includes the number of women who secure leadership positions, successfully launch businesses, or gain the necessary expertise to influence decision-making within their respective companies. As the industry continues to digitize and change, these resources aim to ensure that women are positioned to shape the future of print and graphic communications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of Girls Who Print?

The organization’s mission is to help women learn, grow, and lead within the print, packaging, and publishing industries through education, mentorship, and networking.

How does the organization define success for its members?

Success is measured by the ability of members to reach their professional goals, including moving into leadership roles, expanding technical expertise, and building influence within their organizations.

Who can join the Girls Who Print network?

The network serves women at every stage of their careers, from those entering the industry to those currently leading teams and companies.