ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore unveiled the Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge on Tuesday, marking Maryland’s commitment to advancing workforce development during National Apprenticeship Week. This initiative aims to position Maryland as a leader in apprenticeships by recruiting 500 new employers, 5,000 apprentices, and at least five public agencies into registered apprenticeship programs by next year. AstraZeneca became the first signatory to the pledge.
“The apprenticeship model is rooted in the notion that partnership produces progress – and nothing else does,” Gov. Moore stated. “Together, we are raising the bar and ensuring that Marylanders can access work, wages, and wealth, no matter their path.”
Expanding Apprenticeship Programs
The pledge encourages businesses to establish or expand apprenticeship opportunities, focusing on practical training that allows employees to “earn and learn.” Apprenticeships combine on-the-job mentorship with classroom instruction, offering wages tied to a progressive pay scale.
AstraZeneca’s Rockville Facility Executive Director, Brian Stamper, emphasized the company’s dedication to the pledge. “We will partner with the Maryland Department of Labor to broaden our registered apprenticeship programs and ensure diverse talent gains valuable career experience alongside industry experts,” Stamper said.
The benefits for businesses include lower turnover costs, increased productivity, safer workplaces, and a skilled workforce.
Making Apprenticeships Accessible
Governor Moore announced initiatives to make apprenticeships more accessible and affordable through Maryland’s community colleges. By leveraging the Promise Scholarship Program, eligible students can receive up to $5,000 to cover tuition and fees after financial aid has been applied.
“We are glad to partner with community colleges to help students participating in apprenticeships hone their skills,” said Maryland Higher Education Commission Secretary Sanjay Rai. “Programs like the Promise Scholarship increase the state’s competitiveness and ensure economic mobility for students.”
Recognizing Excellence in Apprenticeships
As part of the weeklong celebration, Maryland’s 2024 Apprenticeship Awards recognized individuals and organizations excelling in apprenticeship programs. The honorees included:
- Registered Apprentice: Carla Varela, Finishing Trades Institute
- Youth Apprentice: Franzy Servano, a cybersecurity apprentice and Joppatowne High School senior
- Mentor: Kevin Gardner, Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center
- Employer: Hub Labels Inc., Hagerstown
- Sponsor: Pohanka Automotive Technology Training Center, Salisbury
- Champion: Ashley Taylor, Local 5 Plumbers and Gasfitters Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee
- Local Workforce Board: Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Employment Development
Portia Wu, Maryland’s Secretary of Labor, highlighted the program’s significance. “We salute Maryland workers pursuing new paths to success and the mentors, employers, and sponsors leading the way to expand these opportunities.”
The Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge reflects a renewed focus on addressing workforce needs while promoting economic mobility and competitiveness across Maryland.
