An employee from Launceston firm Foot & Playsted has been named the 2012 Tasmanian Apprentice of the Year.

John Billett received his award and a $1,000 cheque from Heidelberg at a ceremony in Hobart, which was sponsored by Media Super.

The five finalists were interviewed by Printing Industries Association of Australia state manager Joan Grace and Flying Colours Printing managing director Craig Pearce.

Grace said she and Pearce were very impressed by their passion.

[Related: IPMG employee wins NSW award]

"John is an apprentice who has made considerable progress since completing his apprenticeship and someone who we are confident will make a contribution to the industry for many years to come," she said.

"It is vital that the industry recognises and encourages those young people who will, in years to come, be the ones driving the print industry in Tasmania."

Pearce said Billett demonstrated a high level of industry knowledge.

"He illustrated confidently his motivation to become a major contributor to the company he works for, and he acknowledged them for their commitment to his training," said Pearce.

"John is a young man with massive potential which, in one way, made the selection process a little easier."

[LinkedIn: How do you attract young people to your company?]

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