Workforce System Success Stories - Workforce Development and Adult Learning

MEET DORIA...

Like most young people, Doria Weidel’s early career aspirations spanned multiple disciplines. Her love for animals first drew her to the dream of becoming a veterinarian, and she even worked for a while at an animal shelter to explore the field. On a completely different career path, Doria had held a passion for automobiles since early childhood, when she became fascinated with understanding how school buses were built.

Fast forward to Doria entering her senior year at Howard High School in Ellicott City, Maryland in 2022. Stephanie Discepolo from Howard County Public Schools Career and Technology Education program introduced her to the Apprenticeship Maryland Program (AMP), a youth apprenticeship program that provides students with the opportunity to earn a high school degree while simultaneously gaining valuable skilled work experience. Stephanie enjoys the chance to introduce students like Doria to AMP. “We are able to connect students to their career pathway while they are in high school and help them bridge the gap. It’s very exciting for me to watch the students find their way,” she says.

The AMP opportunity Doria was most interested in was an automotive apprenticeship with BA Auto Care. In addition to participating in AMP, BA Auto Care also sponsors a Registered Apprenticeship program, which allows students like Doria to smoothly transition from the youth program to a Registered Apprenticeship program when they graduate. Doria discussed the opportunity with her mother, and together they decided it was the right next step for her to take in developing her career path.

Doria truly loved her youth apprenticeship experience with BA Auto Care, despite having to hold down a demanding schedule that included working at BA Auto Care in the morning, attending high school in the afternoon, and returning back to work upon completing her day at school. She also attended automotive classes at CCBC on Friday’s and Saturday’s. The staff at BA Auto Care admired Doria’s commitment. “We truly appreciate Doria’s above and beyond efforts as it has greatly benefited us,” says BA Auto Care representative Sandy Weaver.

When asked if she found any particular part of her training challenging, Doria said that most things naturally came easy, but certain areas such as diagnostics, scan tools and electrical components could be a bit confusing at times. She realizes that the automotive repair field is male dominated but says she has always felt comfortable interacting with her teammates. Everyone has been supportive, and no one has ever made her feel inferior. She encourages other young women not to be intimidated about the idea of pursuing a career in automotive repair. “Don’t be afraid to try new things and do not allow anyone to tell you what you can’t do because you’re a girl,” she advises.

Doria graduated from high school in January of 2023, and has since transitioned from her role as a Youth Apprentice to a full-time Registered Apprentice with BA Auto Care through the company’s School to Apprenticeship program.