Nik Hardy, founder and managing director of Hardy Signs, has received an Honorary Fellowship from Burton and South Derbyshire College [BSDC].
Hardy [pictured] attended the college’s graduation ceremony on September 17, held at The Hilton, St George’s Park, where he was presented with the award in recognition of his significant contribution to the college’s mission of upskilling future generations.
As part of the ceremony, Hardy delivered a keynote speech where he shared his career journey and how he built and grew the Hardy Signs business, developing it into a beacon for the local community.
Writing on LinkedIn, Hardy issued a message of thanks to CEO and principal Dawn Ward CBE, chair of the corporation, Everton Burke OBE and the team at Burton College that he has collaborated with over many years.
Hardy wrote: “I am genuinely honoured to have been awarded an Honorary Fellowship and join other individuals whose work has made an impact at BSDC.
“The college plays a key role in the development of the young learners and apprentices of our town and provides fantastic facilities that shape their future careers. They lead the way in representing our town across the Midlands and beyond.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the college and further develop our relationship and the prospects for their students.”
It was in partnership with BSDC that the Hardy Signs business established its ‘Sign and Print’ academy back in 2016, which aims to upskill young people to become the sign makers of the future and secure the longevity of the industry.
Nik Hardy has also worked as an advisor for BSDC in a voluntary capacity since October 2020, attending regular meetings with its careers team to expand student opportunities and strengthen ties between education and industry.
Burton and South Derbyshire College’s network of patrons and fellows mean that its students benefit from an industry-led curriculum, access to key industry contacts and the opportunity to work on live briefs for real companies. This supports the college in delivering on its Skills Promise and ensuring that when students complete their course, they will be armed with the transferable skills and qualities necessary to make a real impact in their sectors and be ready for the challenges of the workplace.
