Future print employs 200th apprentice

Future Print has signed up its 200th apprentice, closing in on its goal of 240 well ahead of the July 2015 target as more than 100 printers embrace the competency-based model.

One of the latest youngsters to begin their print career as an apprentice is 22-year-old Stephen Lacase who recently started in the digital operations of Perth firm Vanguard Press.

Lacase was studying graphic design at Edith Cowan University before deciding to switch to a career in print.

“I found it would benefit me more to get my qualification sooner and start working full time towards it, and earn money while I get qualified, and they used all the skills I had already gained from university.

“I plan on it being a long-term great trade experience in different sectors of the industry.”

Not all apprentices employed by the program are starry-eyed novices, with companies taking the opportunity to upskill their staff on new technology.

Gippsland Trade Printers is retraining three bindery employees as apprentices to be able to work in other areas of the business, and gain formal qualifications.

These printers are no spring chickens either, Geoff Britco, Sue Redfern and Anne Crawford have been with the company for three to seven years and are aged 41, 55, and 56, with Crawford a team leader.

Owner Peter Ceeney says: “They’re doing really well considering they have only had one class, and they all started 2 months ago.”

“Being regionally based it’s harder for them to travel for the lessons, so it’s convenient that they can progress within their current workplace.”

Crawford says learning the skill of printing in a formal way will help her be a better team leader.

“It helps if I know what I’m asking my team to do,” she says.

“I’m gaining knowledge of machinery I’ve never used before. You never know how the company is going so it’s always good to have a lot of qualifications.

“The onsite learning gives me the opportunity and makes it easier. I wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t an option.”

Future Print project manager Dov Hirst says while enrolments have slowed after the initial rush when the initiative launched, there is still a strong interest and a steady stream of new recruits.

“We’ve been delighted to see many young people enter the print and graphic communications industry by starting a Future Print apprenticeship, while many others already in the sector have taken the opportunity to up skill,” he says.

“Gaining a qualification in a vibrant industry which offers strong job prospects and opportunities for advancement changes the lives of the young people involved and provides enormous benefits to the industry.”

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