New Zealand APN apprentice scoops top printing award

Former Navy man, Richard Hughes, celebrates his career change on winning New Zealand's Print Apprentice of the Year.

The 32-year-old said that he was "just blown away" to discover he had beaten five other apprentices. "In the couple of days I have spent with the other finalists I realised how much knowledge and talent there is in the printing industry," he said.

"These people were top of their respective fields of printing, so to be chosen as the overall Print Apprentice of the Year is a huge honour."

Hughes arrived in New Zealand four years ago from North Wales, deciding on a new life with his family after he came out of the Royal Navy. On a whim, he undertook a printing apprenticeship with APN Print in Wanganui in January 2004 where he completed structured training including block release courses, practical and competency tests and on-the-job assessments. On reflection, Hughes says: "Coming here is the best thing that ever happened to me."

APN Print general manager operations, Dan Blackbourn, congratulated Hughes on his victory. "This achievement will not only benefit Richard in his career but the company is also better off with the knowledge that Richard now has," he said. "All apprentices should be aspiring to win this award."

Pictured:  Adam Kerse (left) with the big winner, Richard Hughes.