Packaging Solutions
Parkside has partnered with Sheffield Hallam University to help support the next generation of young packaging innovators as it announces Hayden Birkenshaw has joined the company as a technical apprentice.
Hayden, who has enrolled in the university’s packaging design and technology course as part of the apprenticeship, joins Parkside’s technical department, where he will learn skills related to quality control, technical administration, production support, trial support, and new product development. This will enable Hayden to develop a broad skillset while understanding how the company – and the broader packaging industry – works.
During his apprenticeship, he will report directly to Dr Joshua Swann, technical director – one of the industry’s foremost experts on flexible packaging materials and design.
Joshua welcomed Hayden’s arrival, saying, ‘One of the critical issues facing the packaging sector at the moment is talent drain. As experienced professionals age out of the workforce, we all need to do more to offer young talent a route into this incredible industry. And, as a forward thinking business, we are always looking at how we can play our part and set an example to others.
‘Programmes like this are absolutely vital to the future of the packaging industry. It is a privilege to partner with Sheffield Hallam University to provide a platform for the next generation of packaging talent while also enhancing the capabilities of our technical team. The packaging design and technology course is a fantastic interdisciplinary qualification that will set talented young professionals like Hayden up for long, successful packaging careers.’
The course integrates many elements of the packaging industry into its three and a half year duration, including design, engineering, management, and business principles. Upon completion, Hayden will receive recognition from the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining as an accredited packaging professional in addition to his degree.
Hayden says he is enjoying the opportunity to develop his skills. He said, ‘It has been a great introduction to packaging for me. The team here at Parkside has been really welcoming and I have already had the chance to learn from so many new experiences across the business. I am learning something new every day so I couldn’t ask for a better apprenticeship.’
Sharon Havey, apprenticeship coach (packaging) at Sheffield Hallam University, added: ‘Programmes like this are vital for developing the talent that is the future of British industry. I want to thank Parkside for engaging with us, along with all the employers currently involved in supporting apprentices and young professionals across the country.’
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