Apprenticeship Maryland Program Expands

Educational and Training Opportunities for All Maryland High School Students

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MSDE Contact: Bill Reinhard, 410-767-0486
DLLR Contact: Theresa Blaner, 410-230-6241

BALTIMORE – The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR) are pleased to announce the implementation of the Apprenticeship Maryland Program (AMP) as a new Career and Technology Education (CTE) Program of Study.

This program provides high school students with all aspects of an apprenticeship experience including paid work-based learning, related classroom instruction, and one-on-one mentoring from an industry professional. In addition to the traditional pathways, students will be encouraged to participate in youth apprenticeships leading to sustainable employment and further education in Manufacturing and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

“Our administration is committed to helping Maryland students prepare for their future – whether it’s the pursuit of higher education or a skilled job,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “By expanding apprenticeship opportunities, we are connecting our youth to the jobs of the 21st century, while providing our job creators with the skilled workforce they need to succeed in today’s competitive economy.”

The AMP was piloted in Frederick and Washington County Public School Systems over the past two years. Students within this program were provided with an outstanding educational opportunity to “earn and learn,” while gaining credit toward graduation and industry-recognized credentials. The successful piloting of this program provided the road map to expanding Apprenticeship Maryland statewide.

“Over the last 15 years, Career and Technology Education in Maryland has evolved into a broad system of programs of study spanning a variety of challenging career fields,” said Dr. Karen B. Salmon, State Superintendent of Schools. “Apprenticeship Maryland provides an outstanding opportunity for students to gain valuable work experience while gaining credit toward graduation and earning skill credentials.”

“Apprenticeship bridges the gap between education and employment, benefiting both apprentices and employers,” said Maryland Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “Apprentices gain essential instruction and on-the-job training, while earning a wage and working toward a state skill certificate. This model benefits both the apprentice and the employer, in that a successful apprenticeship program directly translates to a more qualified workforce for Maryland.”