Just being involved counts as reward and recognition. Asking older copy editors to be mentors honors their experience and enhances a cross-training program. The value and art of copy editing must be preserved. We must find room for wordsmiths who will never be maestros. Several editors saw more work on the horizon without the prospect of more resources.
Quality control is at stake.
Decision-makers lack expertise. Editors were promoted to their positions before new technology and other changes raised the level of expertise necessary to succeed on the job. Tapping the knowledge of front-line copy editors becomes increasingly important. Some editors felt that there wasn't a need to change because their papers were successful, at least in the area of winning awards. Obviously there is much more to do.