State Announces Innovative Pathways to Success Apprenticeship Program

Pre-Apprenticeship Program Provides Opportunities for Howard County Youth

BALTIMORE (Feb. 5, 2018) – Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz today announced funding for the Pathways to Success Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Through classroom instruction and hands-on skills training, the program prepares Maryland youth for employment and registered apprenticeship in one of the fasting growing occupations in construction.

Pathways to Success is a collaboration between the Department of Labor, Howard County Office of Workforce Development, Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), and the Independent Electrical Contractors-Chesapeake (IEC). Through this pre-apprenticeship program, up to 17 youth from the Career Research & Development (CRD) program at HCPSS and Howard County Office of Workforce Development will be given an opportunity to begin a career in the electrical trade.

“Maryland is demonstrating time and again that apprenticeships are for everyone,” said Secretary Schulz. “Funding this program underscores the Hogan administration’s commitment to providing real-life work experience for Maryland’s youth. Through apprenticeship, young workers gain valuable experience that puts them on a career pathway and sets them up for success.”

The Independent Electrical Contractors-Chesapeake will conduct a 200-hour electrical trade pre-apprenticeship program for the enrolled students, which will include a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction. Each student successfully completing the program and meeting minimum criteria set by IEC will secure employment as an electrician helper, and a chance to continue on into Maryland’s registered apprenticeship program. Additionally, each student will receive a $65 weekly stipend for perfect attendance and successful completion of assignments.

For more information about Maryland’s workforce system, or training opportunities provided for those who qualify, please contact the Department of Labor’s Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at DLWDALWIOA_DLLR@maryland.gov.

About the Maryland Department of Labor
The Maryland Department of Labor is committed to safeguarding and protecting Marylanders. We're proud to support the economic stability of the state by providing businesses, the workforce, and the consuming public with high-quality, customer-focused regulatory, employment, and training services. For updates and information, follow the Maryland Department of Labor on Twitter (@MD_Labor), Facebook and visit our website.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Theresa Blaner
Director, Communications and Media Relations
410-230-6241 (office)
443-721-8637 (cell)