From Gas Engineer to Director: The apprenticeship journey that helped Dan find a career

Many People are rethinking the traditional ‘university-first, career-second’ path to employment. Instead, they’re combining the practical skills, work experience, and upskilling that apprenticeships offer to build their careers. 

One of them is Dan Crossley, Director of Property Services for Rykneld Homes. Throughout his impressive 22-year career, he has completed two apprenticeships, both of which have played a defining role. 

“When I left school, I wasn't quite sure of what I wanted to do, so I headed to Barnsley College to attempt my A-Levels. I soon realised the ‘academic route’ wasn’t for me and knew I needed something more hands-on to learn and progress.”  

Dan thought about joining the Armed Forces, but his mum recommended he picked up a trade, steering Dan towards some apprenticeships that had been advertised in the local newspaper. 

“Still unsure, I decided that I would apply for both, and which ever offer came first would be the one I take.” 

The apprenticeship came first, which saw Dan becoming a Gas Engineer, helping him secure multiple qualifications (one of them being at a degree level) and marking the start of his career in the social housing sector. While his friends were out enjoying school holidays, he was learning and earning.  

At PfP Thrive, we hear and see stories like Dan’s every day. He’s one of the many People who have transformed their careers with an apprenticeship, showing that non-traditional pathways into work can still jumpstart a rich, long-standing career. To Dan, apprenticeships aren’t just about picking up trades, they’re key for gaining life skills too. 

Beyond his technical skills, Dan highlights his upbringing and values as keys to his success. 

“Having been brought up in an ex-mining village and coming from very little, I had hard-working values and mental toughness instilled into me from a young age. I was frequently told that if I wanted something, I needed to go out and earn it myself.” 

Dan went on to complete another apprenticeship in an Operations Manager role, which allowed him to continue the hands-on learning he enjoys, while expanding his leadership and People management skills.  

For over two decades, Dan’s experience has given him the confidence to become resilient, take risks, and embrace many opportunities over the years. 

“The right mindset will allow you to make mistakes, learn, try again, and come back stronger to succeed.” 

For Dan, his apprenticeships weren’t just qualifications, they were “the best decisions” he’s ever made. Now, he’s giving that same support back by trialling coaching, training, and mentoring opportunities at Rykneld Homes. 

“Ultimately, apprenticeships have made me believe in clear pathways for apprentices, rising stars, and aspiring leaders to progress internally and externally.” 

He leaves us with this advice:

Dan’s experience shows how hands-on learning can transform a career - creating opportunities, unlocking potential and helping build a stronger housing sector for the years ahead.