Abi Richardson is a Network Maintenance Craftsperson apprentice with Northern Gas Networks (NGN) and lives in Kellington, North Yorkshire. As a mum to Lilly and Cooper, she balances family life alongside her apprenticeship and is also studying towards a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Mechanical Engineering.
A Career Change Driven by Ambition
Before joining NGN, Abi worked in childcare and healthcare and qualified as a Nursing Associate through the University of Huddersfield during the pandemic. While she enjoyed caring for people, she was looking for a new challenge and a career that offered more variety, practical problem-solving and opportunities for development.
Abi said: “I wanted a change in career and was looking for something that would challenge me. I’ve always enjoyed problem-solving and learning new skills, and I wanted a career where I could develop and really excel. Engineering offered exactly that.”
Taking the Leap into Gas Engineering
After seeing an opportunity to apply for a Northern Gas Networks apprenticeship, Abi decided to take a chance on a completely different career path.
“It was a big step moving from healthcare into engineering, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. The apprenticeship has opened doors I never expected and given me opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.”
Life on the Gas Distribution Network: A Hands-On Role
Abi works on a wide range of assets on the network, which supplies and delivers gas to 2.9 million homes and businesses across the North of England.
Her role includes:
- Carrying out functional checks and maintenance
- Ensuring gas pressure is regulated safely and reliably
- Undertaking inspections, fault finding and remedial work
The role often involves practical engineering tasks such as replacing bolts and fittings, cutting and threading pipework, installing and updating safety signage and carrying out repairs to ensure all equipment remains safe, compliant and operational.
Responding to Customers When It Matters Most
Alongside planned maintenance work, Abi has also taken part in on-call rotas, responding to gas-related alarms, reported faults and emergency call-outs, alongside experienced colleagues.
“A lot of people don’t realise how much work goes on behind the scenes to maintain the gas network. I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of activities, from planned maintenance work to responding to alarms and faults when people need our help.
“Some jobs are straightforward, while others require you to investigate a problem, think on your feet and work through different solutions. That’s one of the things I enjoy most about engineering.
“Being part of the on-call rota has been one of the most rewarding parts of the apprenticeship because every call-out is different and you’re helping to keep people safe. No two jobs are ever the same, every site is different and there’s always something new to learn.”
Learning While You Earn
The apprenticeship combines practical, hands-on experience with technical training and classroom-based learning. Alongside her apprenticeship, Abi is studying towards her HNC in Mechanical Engineering.
“The apprenticeship allows me to learn while working, which has been invaluable. I’m developing technical knowledge, practical skills and gaining real-world experience every day.”
For Abi, one of the biggest attractions of engineering is the variety.
“No two days are ever the same. One day I could be carrying out maintenance work, another day responding to a fault or alarm, supporting a project, working on network assets or learning a completely new skill. That’s exactly what I was looking for when I decided to change careers.”
Breaking the Stereotypes of Engineering
When people learn about Abi’s role, they are often surprised.
“When I tell people I’m a gas engineer, they don’t always expect it. Engineering has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated industry, but my experience has shown that what matters most is your attitude, willingness to learn and ability to work as part of a team.”
Like many people entering the industry, Abi had concerns before she started.
“I wondered whether I’d be physically capable of some aspects of the role. What I quickly realised is that engineering isn’t just about strength. It’s about teamwork, communication, technical knowledge and problem solving. Everyone supports each other and works together to get the job done.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Gas
Abi hopes that sharing her story will encourage more women to consider careers in engineering.
“I’d love to see more women join the industry. There are still misconceptions about what engineering involves, but my experience has shown that it’s a career open to anyone who is willing to learn and work hard.
“I’d like more women and girls to see engineering as a genuine career option. There are so many opportunities available, and you shouldn’t let the old stereotypes influence your choices. If you’re interested in practical work, problem solving and learning new skills, engineering can be an incredibly rewarding career.
“If you want that opportunity, just go for it. Changing careers can feel daunting, but you never know what you’re capable of until you take that first step.”
Balancing Work, Study and Family Life
Alongside the challenges of a Northern Gas Networks apprenticeship and further study, Abi has also balanced family life as a parent to two children.
“I’ve gained confidence, developed new skills and grown as a person since joining NGN. The support from my colleagues has been fantastic throughout my apprenticeship.
“In particular, Dave Martinson has been incredibly supportive. As a mum, there have been times when balancing work, study and family life has been challenging. Cooper has additional needs, and during some particularly difficult periods, Dave and the wider team have been understanding, supportive and flexible when I needed it most.
“Knowing you have that support around you makes a huge difference. It allows you to focus on both your family and your career, and it’s something I’ve been incredibly grateful for.”
An Opportunity for Transformation
Looking back on her journey so far, Abi is proud of how far she has come and excited about what the future holds.
“This apprenticeship has changed my life. I’ve found a career that I genuinely enjoy, I’ve developed skills and confidence that I never knew I had, and I’ve been supported every step of the way. I’m proud to be part of Northern Gas Networks and proud to help show that engineering is a career for everyone.
“If sharing my story encourages even one woman or girl to consider a career in engineering, then it will have been worthwhile.”
To find out more about a Northern Gas Networks Apprenticeship and apply for our 2026 opportunities, click here.