After starting in the business as an apprentice in 2017, James, who is 19, has now become the first employee at the Kidderminster business to successfully gain a professional qualification under the BPIF Apprenticeship scheme

What did you study, and did you have a particular career in mind?

I had a career in print in mind, so started at Aztec Label as an apprentice. I spent the past two years working to attain the BPIF Level 2 Award in Printing and Graphic Communications – Machine Printing. Working while learning allowed me to hit the ground running and the hands-on training has allowed me to put my skills into practice

How did you find your way into the industry?

My family has a long history in the industry, so it only seemed natural that I joined the family business

Did you know anything about print beforehand?

I never realised how much work actually goes into the job

What does your current role entail?

I’m currently on the production floor at Aztec Label running an eight-colour Nilpeter FB3

What’s the most enjoyable or interesting thing about it?

I get a thrill out of making something from scratch, especially the more complex projects that I have been recently working on. The great thing about print is that there is always something new to learn

Do you have an ideal career path mapped out?

I’m trying to learn all aspects of the business and its operations. We’re a family-owned business, and I’m one of three sons who work here. I hope that one day, we will all be able to take the company on together and keep it in the family

What would be your dream job (not print related)?

I would have loved to be an actor or entertainer; I really enjoy making people smile

Do you have a ‘side hustle’?

No, I’m happy with what I have got

What’s top of your playlist at the moment?

Africa by Toto

Which box set would you recommend?

The Lord of the Rings

What has surprised you most about working in the printing industry?

How friendly and supportive the people are. It’s great to see people working together in such a positive way; everyone is great at communicating

If you ruled the world...?

I would allow people to be themselves without the judgement of others