Do you want to enter the workforce while still in high school? Do you want to work with a mentor in a specific career field? Do you want to get a jumpstart into an existing registered apprenticeship program?
Apprenticeship Maryland is a graduation pathway for seniors, who are interested in employment and further education in a career pathway. Students participating in the Apprenticeship Maryland Academy will earn a salary while learning valuable and marketable industry skills. The program includes a combination of on-the-job training and one year of industry related classroom instruction.
Students interview with Maryland Department of Labor (DOL) approved employers for an opportunity to participate in a paid supervised, structured, on-the-job training program.
Location
Varies by apprenticeship placement.
Grades
12
Related Academies
How do I apply?
Interested students must submit a complete application between December 1 and March 1.
Complete Apprenticeship Application →
Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Chesapeake Application →
Benefits of the Program
Students will:
- Enter the workforce while still in high school
- Earn a salary
- Gain marketable industry skills
- Be assigned a highly skilled mentor
- Receive a State Skill Certificate from the Maryland Department of Labor
Successful Academy Students:
Students must:
- Work a minimum of 450 hours (20 + hours a week)
- Complete one year of related classroom instruction
- Provide own transportation to work-site
- Have driver’s license when required by employer
| Grade Level | Course 1 | Course 2 | Course 3 | Course 4 | Course 5 | Course 6 | Course 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninth Grade | English required | Mathematics required | Science required | Social Studies required | Fitness & Health required | Technology Education required | Fine Arts available |
| Tenth Grade | English required | Mathematics required | Science required | Social Studies required | Fine Arts | Elective available | Elective available |
| Eleventh Grade | English required | Mathematics required | Chemistry | Social Studies required | Elective available | Elective available | Elective available |
| Twelfth Grade | English required | Mathematics required | Apprenticeship I Industry Instruction (1 credit) | Apprenticeship II Work-Based Learning (3 credits) | Released Time | ||
For Students - Frequently Asked Questions
Are there deadlines for completing the student application
Complete application packets are due by March 31, 2025. However, it is recommended that students complete the application during the course registration process. If the student is not selected for a position, they may interview with other eligible employers.
Is the program only for students who want to go directly in the workforce?
Apprenticeship Maryland allows students to “earn while they learn”. The program is intended for students who may want to remain in the Howard County area and continue working within the industry.
Do students need a work permit?
Yes, the placements follow all Maryland Department of Labor requirements.
Are the hour requirements flexible?
Apprenticeship Maryland requires the student to complete 450 hours before graduation to earn the Maryland Department of Labor State Skill Certificate.
How do the hours fit into the school day?
It is individualized for each student depending upon work schedules. Students may begin their day at work and take required classes in the afternoon or evening (i.e. English and Math). The 450 hours is a minimum requirement as well as year-long related coursework.
What jobs are available?
Employers are approved by the Maryland Department of Labor and will be posted on the Apprenticeship Maryland Career Academies website as they become eligible.
Where can I find more information?
For Businesses - Frequently Asked Questions about the Apprenticeship Maryland Program
What is Apprenticeship Maryland?
Apprenticeship Maryland is a State-wide program that gives your business the unique opportunity to train, influence and shape high school students into top-performing employees who are invested in your business.
Why should our business participate in Apprenticeship Maryland?
Participating in Apprenticeship Maryland is an investment in your business. Apprenticeships are a great way to develop a pipeline of talented, high-skilled workers to help businesses grow.
How can my business become involved with Apprenticeship Maryland?
Where can I find more information?
Businesses interested in participating should complete the Eligible Employer application