Maryland, December 28, 2025
Maryland has recently achieved remarkable milestones under the Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge by exceeding its goals. With over 500 employers engaged and more than 14,000 apprentices enrolled, the initiative aims to enhance workforce development, foster economic growth, and address job market demands across multiple sectors, including healthcare and technology. Notable programs have emerged that provide residents with essential skills and career pathways, particularly benefiting Southern Maryland communities.
Maryland Exceeds Apprenticeship Pledge Goals in 2025
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Maryland has made significant strides towards enhancing workforce development through the surpassing of its targets under the Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge. Initiated in late 2024, the initiative focuses on expanding registered apprenticeship programs, fostering a skilled workforce in high-demand areas, and supporting economic growth across the state.
This ambitious pledge has connected over 500 employers with the talent they need while providing local residents with access to well-paying jobs and crucial skills training. Increasing job opportunities while reducing regulatory barriers showcases the state’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and small business resilience.
Key Achievements
- Employer Participation: The pledge aimed to engage 500 employers within registered apprenticeship programs. The state has successfully partnered with over 500 employers, including five state agencies and numerous local public sector entities.
- Apprentice Recruitment: Initial recruitment goals targeted over 5,000 new apprentices, but Maryland has exceeded expectations with over 14,000 registered apprentices enrolled in various programs, reflecting a strong upward trend in participation.
- Program Expansion: The focus extends beyond traditional trades to include burgeoning fields like information technology, healthcare, life sciences, and education, emphasizing hands-on training combined with academic instruction.
Notable Programs and Partnerships
- Environmental Health Specialist Apprenticeship: This initiative, launched by the Maryland Department of Health in collaboration with local entities, aims to equip apprentices with vital skills through educational coursework and field experience in public health.
- Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program: A pioneering effort by the Maryland State Department of Education, this program addresses teacher shortages by offering an accessible, paid pathway into the teaching profession, thereby reducing the financial barriers to acquiring necessary qualifications.
- Private Sector Involvement: Companies such as Royal Farms and AstraZeneca are leading players in the pledge, underscoring the partnership between public and private sectors to elevate workforce training and career advancement opportunities.
Impact on Southern Maryland
For residents in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, the apprenticeship program presents a valuable avenue into stable careers, meeting the growing demand in local industries like healthcare and education. The practical training provided through these programs helps to develop a workforce that aligns with regional needs without placing the entire financial burden of education on individuals.
Background
The Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge is a collaborative initiative aimed at improving workforce development by encouraging the formation of registered apprenticeship programs. Since its launch, various stakeholders have worked together to ensure Maryland’s young professionals receive the skills and training they need to thrive in the competitive job market.
The governor has highlighted the importance of such partnerships, emphasizing how they create significant opportunities for all Marylanders to improve their economic security.
Conclusion
The achievements of the Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge signal a robust commitment to workforce development and skill enhancement in Maryland. These advancements are paving the way for economic growth, creating stronger local communities, and ensuring the state’s workforce can meet the demands of the future. Engaging in local businesses and supporting initiatives that enhance job training will contribute to a thriving economy in Baltimore and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge?
- The Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge is an initiative launched in late 2024 by Governor Wes Moore, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Labor and the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, aimed at expanding registered apprenticeship programs across Maryland.
- What were the goals of the Apprenticeship Pledge?
- The initiative aimed to engage 500 employers, including at least five additional public agencies, in registered apprenticeship programs by November 2025, and to recruit more than 5,000 new registered apprentices.
- Did Maryland meet its Apprenticeship Pledge goals?
- Yes, Maryland exceeded its targets by partnering with over 500 employers, including five state agencies and 17 regional, city, and county-level public sector entities, and enrolling over 14,000 apprentices, surpassing the initial goal by more than 200 apprentices.
- What sectors were targeted by the Apprenticeship Pledge?
- The expansion covered traditional trades as well as emerging sectors, including information technology, healthcare, life sciences, and education.
- How does the Apprenticeship Pledge impact Southern Maryland?
- For residents in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, the initiative offers accessible entry into stable careers, aligning with regional needs and providing paid training without the full burden of traditional education costs.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Initiative Name | Governor’s Apprenticeship Pledge |
| Launch Date | Late 2024 |
| Initial Goals | Engage 500 employers, including at least five additional public agencies, in registered apprenticeship programs by November 2025; recruit more than 5,000 new registered apprentices. |
| Actual Outcomes | Partnered with over 500 employers, including five state agencies and 17 regional, city, and county-level public sector entities; enrolled over 14,000 apprentices, surpassing the initial goal by more than 200 apprentices. |
| Sectors Targeted | Traditional trades, information technology, healthcare, life sciences, education. |
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