John Raine is the Training & Applications Manager at William Smith Group 1832, where he leads the delivery and development of professional training programmes through the Training Academy. With over 10 years in the sign and graphics industry, John combines practical installation expertise with a deep technical understanding of self-adhesive films and surface applications.
John began his career at William Smith working in the warehouse before moving into the sales team, where he spent three years developing strong product knowledge and customer insight. In July 2022, he transitioned into his current training role, bringing together his operational, commercial, and technical experience to support both customers and colleagues across the business.
Today, John specialises in installation training, surface preparation, and the technical fundamentals of vinyl and films, helping installers understand not only how to apply materials correctly, but why different variables affect performance and longevity. His work involves researching and testing products in real-world conditions, from adhesives and face films to substrate variations and site environments. This approach ensures installers understand how factors such as preparation, temperature, and surface type can influence the long-term success of an installation.
A large part of John’s focus is within the building and interiors sector, including interior films, building window films, façade products, and specialist privacy solutions such as data jammer films. His expertise also extends into vehicle applications, including colour change films, digital print media, and paint protection film.
Alongside delivering training courses, John provides technical troubleshooting and application support, helping customers diagnose installation challenges and identify best-practice solutions. His practical, solutions-focused approach makes him a trusted point of contact for installers seeking guidance on vinyl installation, surface considerations, and film performance.
Education
- 3M Endorsed Trainer, DI-NOC
- 3M Endorsed Trainer, Building Window Films
- Cover Styl Train the Trainer Endorsed
- LX Hausys BENIF Endorsed
- Avery Dennison Façade “Painting with Film” Level 1
- Solar Screen Data Jammer Train the Trainer Approved
John’s Picks
Understanding Vinyl Adhesives
Adhesives often don’t get as much attention as they deserve. Most people spend more time talking about face films, finishes, and colours than what’s...
Acclimatisation: Why Your Vinyl Needs to Warm Up Before You Print & Fit
Cold media causes print defects, no-tack adhesion and brittle vinyl. Learn how to acclimatise rolls and substrates to avoid failures and colour shift...
Why Architectural Film Should Be in Every Shopfitter's Toolkit
If you've not worked with architectural film before, here's what you need to know: it's a self-adhesive PVC film that recreates the look and feel of natural...
