Leaving school at 15-years-old has not stopped screen printer Regan Quaife from succeeding, taking out this year's top award in the print industry.

The 25-year-old has been named the 2012 print industry Apprentice of the Year inthe prestigious Pride in Print Awards held on May 3 at ASB Arena.

Apprentice of the year Regan Quaife

The awards, sponsored by ICON Digital Printing Papers, celebrate the best print work in New Zealand and the industry's top apprentices.

As the winner Regan received a plaque and a $2000 cash prize.

Regan says he was overwhelmed to hear his name called out as Apprentice of the Year.

'If only my third form teacher could see me now.

'This is one of the greatest experiences in my life, next to my wedding day. It was still sinking in the next day.”

After leaving school early, Regan completed an auto services course where his tutor noticed his artistic skills and helped him land his first job as a t-shirt printer and sign writer.

He completed his screen printing apprenticeship at Commercial Signs Print and Plastic in Tauranga last year. He was one of five finalists from a range of businesses vying for the top training award.

'Every day is different and every print is different. I am lucky where I work, as a screen printer in my workshop we get to print a very wide range of products – from signage, stickers and labels to white water rafting boat panels that get sent to places like America and Brazil.

'The apprenticeship has benefited me hugely, from my work ethic and skills right through to my reading, writing and spelling skills.

'I am a lot more confident in my work and have taken charge of the printing area in my workplace, which has resulted in me being promoted to production manager.”

Shea and Regan Quaife with company directors Brett Potter and Debbie Webster at the awards.

Commercial Signs Print and Plastic directors Brett Potter and Debbie Webster say in 10 years Regan has moved from a non-qualified school leaver to a married man, father of three children and an excellent screen printer.

'Regan is a devoted family man and a very valued employee. His work ethics and quality of work are exceptional. His attendance, initiative, devotion and enthusiasm to our company are above excellent.”

ICON spokesperson Lisa Hegh says they are delighted to be associated with the Apprentice of the Year Award for the second year running.

'The finalists represent the future leaders of the industry and we are proud to be associated with them.”

Communications and Media ITO general manager John Cudby says it was tough to choose a winner.

'Regan and the other award finalists have already achieved at the highest level with the backing of their employers, families and other supporters. We look forward to watching Regan and the other finalists' progress – they have bright careers ahead of them.”

John is urging companies to take full advantage of the Government's $1000 subsidy for new apprentices signing into training, in what is a limited time offer.

'There has never been a better time to train,” he says.

Regan is now keen to complete a digital printing apprenticeship through PrintNZ Training.

'I think digital printing is the future of our industry and being qualified in screen printing and digital printing would benefit my workshop and my career.”

The 2012 finalists are:

- Regan Quaife of Commercial Signs Print and Plastic, Tauranga

- Nicholas Gribble of Licensys NZ Holdings, Auckland

- Michael Brown of APN Print, Tauranga

- Conrad Vaney of MR Print Group, Hastings

- Shane Baskiville of APN Print, Ellerslie.