Sara Schaeffner of The Digital Frontier Honored with Women in Wide Format Award

Sara Schaeffner, owner of The Digital Frontier, has been named one of Big Picture Magazine's 2024 Women in Wide Format Award recipients, recognizing her significant impact on the wide-format digital print industry. The announcement was made during the 2024 PRINTING United Expo held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from September 10-12, 2024.

Schaeffner, who acquired The Digital Frontier in 2020, was among six women honored at the ninth annual awards ceremony. The recognition celebrates female leaders who have made substantial contributions to the advancement of the wide-format digital print sector. This accolade not only highlights Schaeffner's individual achievements but also underscores the growing influence of women in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

The Digital Frontier, based in Broomfield, Colorado, has established itself as a versatile commercial and fine-art printer, specializing in large-format and digital print solutions. Under Schaeffner's leadership, the company has expanded its services to encompass four specialized divisions: commercial printing, fine-art prints, custom framing, and tradeshow graphics. This diversification demonstrates the company's adaptability and commitment to meeting a wide range of client needs in the evolving print market.

Schaeffner's background in executive leadership across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and IT, has brought a fresh perspective to The Digital Frontier. Her enterprise experience, combined with her team's extensive industry knowledge, has positioned the company as an innovative force in the printing sector. Operating from a 20,000-square-foot production facility, The Digital Frontier has the capacity to handle large-scale projects and push the boundaries of print technology.

The recognition of Schaeffner and her peers in the Women in Wide Format Awards is significant for several reasons. It highlights the increasing diversity within the printing industry and the valuable contributions made by women-owned businesses. Moreover, it serves as an inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs and professionals in the field, potentially encouraging more women to pursue careers in wide-format printing and related technologies.

The award also draws attention to the technological advancements and creative possibilities within the wide-format printing industry. The Digital Frontier's ability to print on various materials, including metal, vinyl, wood, glass, and acrylic, showcases the versatility and innovation that characterize modern printing services. This capability is crucial for businesses across multiple sectors, from advertising and marketing to interior design and fine art reproduction.

Furthermore, Schaeffner's commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by the company's 5P commitment to the planet, aligns with growing industry trends towards environmentally responsible practices. This approach not only benefits the environment but also appeals to eco-conscious clients, potentially opening up new market opportunities for The Digital Frontier and setting an example for other businesses in the sector.

As the printing industry continues to evolve in response to technological advancements and changing market demands, recognition of innovative leaders like Schaeffner becomes increasingly important. Her success story serves as a testament to the opportunities available in the wide-format printing industry and the potential for growth and innovation in this dynamic field.

The Women in Wide Format Award not only celebrates Schaeffner's personal achievements but also shines a spotlight on The Digital Frontier's contributions to the industry. As the company continues to expand its services and push the boundaries of what's possible in printing, it is likely to inspire further innovation and progress within the sector, benefiting clients, employees, and the wider community alike.