Member Article

Apprentice Colby lands Management role at Workwear Supplier

Colby Henry left college with good qualifications and a keen interest in Design Graphics. Rather than applying for university, he decided to try an apprenticeship and was taken on as a Design Apprentice in BH Industrial’s print department. The Rotherham-based company supplies workwear and signage for many small and large businesses including Next, DHL, Wren Kitchens and Aldi.

Colby, now aged 21, said: “I wasn’t convinced by university and when I found out more about apprenticeships, the idea of continuing to learn whilst working really appealed to me.”

The match was a success and as a result of his outstanding enthusiasm and hard work, Colby was soon promoted to Print Department Manager where he continues to impress the business owners with his flare for the job. His course in Business and Admin Level 2, attained through The Source Skills Academy, has given him the confidence to address any issues that arise and to improve the efficiency of their systems and procedures. After seeing a gap in the market, Colby suggested the company expand their work to produce signage; an idea which now generates a significant amount of the company’s sales.

With Colby’s help, the business has developed to such an extent that the department has employed two part-time employees and another full-time apprentice. They are now moving the department to new premises, investing in more technologically advanced printing equipment to enable them to fulfil the high level of orders they receive.

Co-owner of BH Industrial, Paul Atton, said: “We cannot stress enough that without Colby’s input and enthusiasm we would not be in this fortunate position.”

Once Colby completes his apprenticeship he will begin his Level 3 Management course to further develop his newfound management skills.

Colby says: “I’ve always been into design but I didn’t know how far it could take me; I wasn’t sure what I could achieve without going to university but I just knew it wasn’t for me. I’m glad I went down the apprenticeship route because it’s enabled me to use my passion and skills in the workplace and I’ve progressed my career quicker than I ever thought possible”.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by The Source Skills Academy .