Manchester Apprentice Shortlisted in National Industry Awards
Paul Brown of Manchester-based polythene packaging manufacturer Duo, has today been announced as a finalist in the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ category of the national Plastics Industry Awards 2012.
Brown, 23 from Whitefield, Manchester, was entered into the national awards by Duo, where he is two years into an apprenticeship to become a qualified Electro Mechanical Engineer.
Since starting with Duo as a machine operator, Paul successfully gained entry onto the company’s apprenticeship scheme, which is supported by National Apprenticeship Service. Paul excelled in his work and studies, achieving his City and Guilds level two certificates in Electro-Technical Technology at Bury College. On completion of his level three qualifications, Paul is to continue his studies with a Higher National Diploma in Electro Mechanical Engineering, sponsored by Duo.
Launched in 2001 and now firmly established as the most respected accolade for the plastics industry, the Plastics Industry Awards recognise excellence in training and environmental performance as well as design and manufacturing. The Awards regularly attract leading companies and top designers from across the sector.
David Brimelow, managing director at family-owned Duo commented: “Paul is a real success story. We identified that he had bags of potential when he worked on the shop floor, and now after joining our apprenticeship scheme, his enthusiasm and dedication means that he is well on his way to building a highly successful career as a qualified engineer. We are thrilled that Paul has made the finals of such a highly competitive national award – really well deserved.”
Brimelow continued: “There are a limited amount of engineers in this field, so it is important that we invest in and develop our own skilled engineers to allow us to deliver the highest quality products at the most competitive prices. At Duo, we strive to identify employees’ potential and provide personal development opportunities to both improve productivity and a winning team culture. I cannot stress enough the importance of apprenticeships within businesses of all sizes. Paul is a testament to the scheme, and a great inspiration to his colleagues.”
Paul Brown, engineering apprentice at Duo UK said: “As the first engineering apprentice at Duo, I am so pleased to be shortlisted for the Plastics Industry Awards both for myself and for Duo which has invested so much in my career progression. Engineering really is my passion, so I just hope this comes across when I go for interview at the Polymer Technology & Innovation Training Centre at Telford with the other nominated finalists”
Duo which will celebrates its 25th year in business next year, manufactures bespoke packaging products for leading e-retail, retail, mail order and industrial brands with all aspects of the manufacturing process carried out in house. Additional high profile clients include ASOS, JD Sports, JD Williams, Tesco and Boohoo.com. For further information on Duo products and services visit www.duo-uk.co.uk or phone 0161 203 5767.
The Plastics Industry Awards ceremony will be held on Friday 28th September 2012 at the London Hilton.
ENDS
