Mark Stokes

Having worked within the private print industry for many years, I joined Hampshire Printing and Document Services (HP&DS) in November 2019 as Print and Bindery Technician.

HP&DS work alongside Hampshire Constabulary, Fire and Rescue, Hampshire schools, libraries, and other local government offices supplying all their printing needs, as well as supplying Hampshire County Council’s own needs.

We cover all aspects of print-related products such as booklets, leaflets, banners, posters, and are always looking to offer new services in an ever-changing environment including promoting an eco-friendly way of working by using materials that are eco-friendly and reducing our use of single use plastics by 90%.

When joining HP&DS it was agreed that I undertake the Print and Bindery Level 3 apprenticeship via the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF). Although I already had varied technical skills, this apprenticeship will help me underpin my knowledge of all aspects of print and allow me to further my career within HP&DS and be an even more valuable member of the team.

So far, whilst working through my apprenticeship I have been highly commended by the Kathy Woodward Award for Learning 2020, a prestigious award set up by the BPIF, and I was privileged to win the Breakthrough Award for apprentices who have shown fortitude and resilience.

The things I have achieved since starting at HP&DS shows that there are no limits to what can be accomplished if you’re willing to put in the time and effort and, at present, I’m on course for a distinction with my apprenticeship.

I look forward to what the future holds for me in my career and progressing even further.