Screen-printing apprentice fights back at Pride In Print Awards

Martial arts enthusiast and Screen Printing Solutions employee Sam Donaldson makes the chop as New Zealand's top printing apprentice.

The 23-year-old, (pictured) who struggled at school due to problems with dyslexia was introduced to the world of printing through his karate teacher and mentor, Steve Wallace, who is also manager of Screen Printing Solutions.

Wallace recognised something in Donaldson that teachers did not and offered him a job at that company. “I fell in love with the job and have never looked back,” Donaldson said.

Taking out Apprentice of the Year was a surprise for Donaldson, who adds another accolade to what has been an impressive year. He was initially chosen as PrintNZ Training screen-printing apprentice of the year for New Zealand. He came up against other apprentices from companies such as Rainbow Print Group, PMP Print, Amcor Kiwi Packaging Case and Jenkins Group Ltd.

“This shows what a person can achieve,” he said. “You have to believe in yourself. With that belief, and the support of others, you can reach the top.”

Screen Printing Solutions manager Steve Wallace was on stage with Sam as he accepted the award. “Sam’s attitude is a credit to him as he is constantly looking for ways to inspire and motivate his team,” he said.

The two spend 70 hours a week together and never tire of one another’s company. “I couldn’t ask for a better employee,” Wallace said. “His [Sam’s] planning is critical to our company’s success and he does incredibly in this area, not only meeting his own demands but setting goals and incentives for the other staff to aim towards and achieve.”