Bathurst-based Laura Burgett from Spatial Services, this year’s Heidelberg-LIA Apprentice of the year, is very well credentialed across a range of disciplines.
The talented graphic prepress apprentice is not only a trained graphic designer with a level 4 certificate; she is also a bachelor of business from Charles Stuart University. In addition she’s studied 3D modelling and printing at Orange TAFE.
Despite being a trained graphic designer it was only when she began as a prepress apprentice with Spatial Services, (formerly the Land and Property Information), that she was able to round out her knowledge of the printing industry. Working with the Government mapping service, her performance in undertaking a level 3 certificate in print communications was so impressive she was declared Heidelberg-LIA Apprentice of the Year this week in Sydney.
Addressing her progress she recognised that it was the TAFE NSW printing apprenticeship that made the difference. I was still working in roles that were not directly involved in the printing and graphic arts industries. I knew that I wanted to be involved in the industry anyway possible, so when I saw a prepress apprenticeship position advertised I jumped at the chance to get my foot in the door of the industry.
Her presentation from Richard Timson, managing director Heidelberg ANZ, was a highlight of a lively and engaging LIA event on Wednesday. As ever the enthusiastic volunteerism of the LIA members revives the spirit of industry community and welfare.
A strong line-up of speakers, included Andrew Macaulay, CEO Printing Industries, and Mitch Mulligan, MD Bottcher representing Visual Connection. Dr. Paul Dastoor, University of Newcastle, was the star turn, giving the members and guests an in-depth dive on the fascinating work he’s undertaking on polymer-based, power-generating inks. Previewing a demonstration of the technology at next week’s PacPrint, the Professor told how printing inks will be able to not only generate solar power but also monitor diabetes in suffers without the need for injections.
The line-up of five finalists for this year was described by Peter Munro, chairman of judges, as “the best ever.”