ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of the Road to Careers grant program, a $24 million federal initiative aimed at preparing Marylanders for skilled careers in transportation and construction. The program, funded through federal transportation dollars, will provide workforce development grants over six years, focusing on training new workers for essential roles in transportation construction trades.
“Making this Maryland’s decade means building out a workforce that can compete for the jobs of today – and help us win the fights of tomorrow,” said Governor Moore. “Our Administration’s innovative strategy to bring new workers into the construction trades will help more Marylanders receive the training they need to access work, wages, and wealth.”
The initiative, one of the largest transportation workforce development efforts in the nation, is a collaborative effort among the Maryland Department of Labor, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), and the Federal Highway Administration. The program will invest $4 million annually, funding workforce training, apprenticeship opportunities, and support services to help build critical infrastructure while creating well-paying careers.
Federal and State Collaboration
Maryland federal lawmakers highlighted the importance of combining federal infrastructure investments with workforce training programs. “When we voted for the historic infrastructure bill, we knew the importance of ensuring that new federal investments in our transportation infrastructure would be complemented by investments in our workers and apprenticeship programs,” said Maryland federal lawmakers. “This initiative will help create pathways to career success and train a skilled workforce to build the future of transportation in Maryland.”
Inclusive Workforce Development
A key component of the program is its focus on underserved groups, including women and others facing employment barriers. By emphasizing pre-apprenticeships and registered apprenticeships, the program seeks to provide mentorship, on-the-job training, and wraparound support services.
“An inclusive approach to growing our transportation workforce is vital to our economic growth,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “This historic investment couples time-tested training models like apprenticeship with critical supports like childcare, access to counseling, or basic needs like uniforms.”
The program builds on Maryland’s designation as one of the Biden Administration’s Workforce Hubs, incorporating best practices from the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration.
Meeting Maryland’s Workforce Needs
Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld stressed the importance of skilled labor for upcoming projects. “Thanks to the historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there is an even greater need for skilled workers to help build our state’s future transportation system,” Wiedefeld said. “The Roads to Careers grant program will train electricians, welders, heavy equipment operators, construction workers and all skilled trade workers who are in demand while providing family-supporting, good-paying careers for Marylanders.”
To reduce employment barriers, grantees are required to offer individualized support plans, including assistance with transportation, childcare, mental health services, or work-related equipment. Applicants are encouraged to partner with organizations serving low-income individuals, justice-involved populations, and English language learners to ensure broader access to the program.
Grant Applications and Timeline
Applications for the Road to Careers grant program are open until February 28, 2025, with awards beginning in May 2025. Each grant is capped at $500,000. Interested applicants can visit the Maryland Department of Labor’s Road to Careers website for more details and application materials.
