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Blake is one of our future stars, who joined the company as an apprentice in 2019. Since then, he has gone on to be a leading team member within his role and department.

We sat down with him to get his story on how he joined the business, found his chosen career path, and what advice he’d give to young adults, who are trying to find their feet in the world of employment.

When did you join the company?

I started my apprenticeship as an Artwork Technician in August 2019.

How did you find out about the position advertised?

The position was advertised at my college in Newton Aycliffe, Southwest Durham Training. Before joining the business, I was working part-time at retail chain B & M.

Why did you choose to join William Smith Group?

I’d been studying in the field of manufacturing, learning about several different topic areas and sectors. All the career opportunities that were becoming available were mechanical focused apart from one. The one that looked a bit different and stood out from the rest was the one I am now doing.

What does your current role involve on a day-to-day basis?

I design traffic signs in line with TSRGD and Chapter 7 of the Traffic Signs Manual 2018. The drawings vary from simple supplementary plates to more complex route direction signs. I’ve got to ensure customer project requests, particularly size requirements, are in line with rules and guidelines set out.

In the artwork department we’re also responsible for nesting projects so that substrates can be cut on the routers, and from time-to-time I am also asked to help in other areas of the department / business. Throughout the COVID pandemic I ended up assisting the warehouse team with material distribution.

How have you developed professionally since joining the business?

I am now fully qualified as an Artwork Technician and confidence and knowledge has improved ten-fold.

As in any role you’d hope to develop over time. Surrounding yourself with good people can help speed up your development. My role is very industry specific so the best way to learn is by getting on with the job and picking up on knowledge and good habits from those around you.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Working as part of a team. There’s a good dynamic within the department. I also enjoy working towards a goal that can influence a target.

It’s also good to have a healthy work life balance. Until I worked at William Smith Group 1832, I did not have this. I was studying throughout the week and working on a weekend.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

I’ve only been fully qualified in my role since May 2021, so I am looking forward to just developing further in my current position. In the future I would like to learn more about the commercial signage side of things and digital print.

How do you see the industry 5 years’ time?

People will always need road signs, so it feels like a secure industry. I do think it is likely that things will become more digitised in the future. We’ve always been good at keeping up with the times so if changes and innovations do come to the industry, I am sure we’ll be one of the first to get onboard.

What key advice would you give to people looking to get on the careers ladder?

Stick in at college and work as hard as you can. It’ll pay off when seeking an opportunity in the future. Getting a part-time job whilst studying is also a good way to get some life experience and understand all the responsibilities that come with having a job, even if it is not something see a long-term vision for.

Sum William Smith Group up in one word

Lively!