PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) marked National Apprenticeship Week on Tuesday, November 19, with a student recognition ceremony and an engaging panel discussion to promote its Apprenticeship Maryland Program (AMP). The event, held at the Career and Technology Academy, celebrated the success of student apprentices and encouraged local businesses to consider joining the program.
Recognizing Student Achievements
During the event, six outstanding AMP apprentices were honored for their achievements in their respective roles during the 2024-25 school year:
- Olivia Bernhardy – Bulrushes/Caney Creek Catering
- Caden Fridman – Fixed Right & Guaranteed LLC
- Zane Johnson – Washburn’s Boatyard
- Lucas Mayhew – JetTech Solutions
- Soleil Rivera-Reyes – Calvert Well Pet Clinic
- Jacee Toder – Bulrushes/Caney Creek Catering
The program provides high school students with hands-on experience in various industries, preparing them for future careers and addressing workforce needs. Lisa Grenis, a CCPS Board of Education member, highlighted the mutual benefits of the initiative. “Working in partnership with our local business community is advantageous to both students and businesses. Students gain mentorship from professionals, while businesses have the chance to train and retain future employees,” Grenis said.
Employer and Student Perspectives
The event featured a panel discussion where employers shared their experiences with AMP apprenticeships. Roy White of Fixed Right & Guaranteed LLC, an early sponsor of the program, praised the initiative’s impact on his business. “I like that I can train an apprentice to work how my company does things and learn good habits from the start,” White said. His company has sponsored four apprentices since AMP launched in 2021-22, with several transitioning to full-time roles.
Students expressed enthusiasm for the program’s hands-on learning opportunities. Jacee Toder, an apprentice pastry chef at Bulrushes Café, said, “Success isn’t based on big steps, but on all the small steps you achieve along the way.” Similarly, Soleil Rivera-Reyes, a veterinary tech apprentice at Calvert Well Pet Clinic, shared, “I like that I am learning something new and can see that I get better at it every time I do it.”
Parents also voiced their support. One parent remarked, “This program has helped [my child] do things they didn’t know they could do, giving them a sense of purpose.”
Encouraging Business Participation
Despite its success, AMP faces challenges in attracting new business partners. Some businesses are hesitant due to unfamiliarity with the program or concerns about the process. Michelle McGuffin, AMP coordinator, reassured prospective sponsors, “You and the student are never alone in this journey. I am here to help and support both the student and the business to ensure successful outcomes.”
McGuffin has overseen significant growth in the program, which started with just two apprenticeships in 2021-22 and now boasts over two dozen registered business partners.
Expanding Beyond Traditional Trades
Carrie Akins, who oversees Career and Technical Education for CCPS, emphasized the program’s versatility. “Apprenticeships are no longer confined to traditional trades. We’re eager to explore partnerships in any industry, especially those that may not have historically considered apprenticeship as a talent pipeline,” Akins said.
Learn More
CCPS encourages parents, students, and businesses to explore AMP opportunities. Interested parties can contact Michelle McGuffin, Work-Based Learning Coordinator, at 443-550-9957 or mcguffinm@calvertnet.k12.md.us. Additional details are available at AMP’s webpage.
