However it was certainly a gamble worth taking for 20-year-old Dan Johnson, who has been named Outstanding Apprentice of the Year due to his passion and commitment to his role at Sign Art, a family business run by UK Steel Enterprise in Redcar.

Elsa Weatherhead, finance manager at Sign Art, says: “We are all very proud of Dan and have been so impressed with the value he has added to our business on the manufacturing side and in developing client relationships.
“We believe that apprentices are very valuable to the business, the individual and to develop the skills base that the area needs. We had no hesitation in asking Dan to become a full-time member of the team and we would like to take on another apprentice soon.”


As well as training in sign-making and fitting, Johnson’s apprenticeship has included learning about vehicle wrapping, and as demand for vehicle customisation continues to grow, that aspect of the role is becoming increasingly lucrative for the business.

Johnson says of his role: “I have learnt so much and thoroughly enjoy my job. I definitely made the right career decision and winning the Trophy has been the icing on the cake and a fantastic surprise.”


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