ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland has achieved record participation in its statewide apprenticeship programs, helping more residents gain hands-on training and employment in high-demand fields, according to announcements from Governor Wes Moore’s office and the Maryland Department of Labor.
The Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge, launched in late 2024 with the Maryland Department of Labor and the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, encourages employers to expand registered apprenticeships. More than 500 employers, including state agencies and local public sector organizations, have joined the initiative. Today, over 1,000 businesses and agencies employ and train registered apprentices. Maryland also exceeded its goal of recruiting 5,000 new apprentices, bringing total participation to more than 14,000 statewide. The growth spans traditional trades and emerging sectors such as healthcare, information technology, life sciences, and education.
According to reports, new programs include the nation’s first environmental health specialist apprenticeship, operated by the Maryland Department of Health in partnership with the Maryland Professional Employees Council and Morgan State University, and a statewide teacher apprenticeship program developed with the Maryland State Department of Education. These initiatives provide paid, on-the-job training while offering credentials and career pathways to address workforce shortages. Private employers such as Royal Farms and AstraZeneca have expanded apprenticeship opportunities, giving workers structured training and experience in critical industries. For more information on Maryland’s registered apprenticeship programs, visit labor.maryland.gov.
Photo: Maryland.gov