ASDC graduate interview: Benjamin Poole

Benjamin Poole of David Nieper in Derbyshire recently achieved his ASDC qualification. Here, he looks back on the experience, what he learned, and what the future holds.

Congratulations on achieving ASDC! So, how did you get into coloration as a career?

I got into the industry by accident really. My dad, who has worked within the dyeing industry all of his career, was talking to someone he knew in the trade. This person mentioned that the company he worked for were looking for a younger person to train up. My dad suggested it to me as, at the time, I was floating through sixth form not knowing what I wanted to do. I applied and was successful in getting the job, and worked in the dyehouse for eight years. Then I moved to David Nieper, which was setting up a digital printing and dyeing facility, and offered a great opportunity for me to further my career. I have now been working for David Nieper for just over 12 months.

Tell us about your job today.

My current title is dyeing specialist and at present I look after all of the technical aspects of the dyeing plant. I am also learning all other aspects of the factory environment, which include digital printing onto cotton, viscose, silk, wool and nylon; all technical aspects of processing, both knitted and woven fabric bases; and management of the operation team, with a view to future progression.

What difference will holding ASDC mean to you?

I think holding the ASDC will mean that people will take my opinion seriously, as it is a well-recognised qualification within the industry. It would also help in the future in applying for jobs – which will not, hopefully, be something I will need to do.

What was your experience of studying online like?

The online experience was a challenge as there wasn’t anyone there to keep me focused on the lectures, but I learned to cope with that. It was also positive in other ways, in that I could look at the content as and when I wanted to, rather than it being at a set time and date. I was then able to go back over parts that I didn’t understand fully to refresh my memory.

How did you feel when you saw your results? And now?

I was very pleased, if not a bit relieved, when I saw my results, because I know how hard I had studied and revised. My girlfriend was also happy as she was getting fed up of testing me on the questions I had written down as part of my revision. I don’t think she would have been impressed if I was to do it all again.

What are your future ambitions?

I’m looking forward to continuing my journey within the textile industry, and hopefully seeing more and more production returning to the UK in the medium to long term.

Thanks for your time Benjamin, and good luck for the next stage in your career!