ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced a $24 million workforce development program that aims to equip residents with skills for in-demand careers in the transportation and construction sectors.

The Road to Careers grant program will provide funding to train new workers in transportation construction trades, with a focus on inclusivity and overcoming barriers faced by women and other job seekers. The program is a collaborative effort between the Maryland Department of Labor, the Maryland Department of Transportation, and the Federal Highway Administration. Leveraging federal transportation funding, the initiative will invest $4 million annually over six years.

Governor Moore emphasized the importance of building a workforce prepared for future job markets, stating, “Making this Maryland’s decade means building out a workforce that can compete for the jobs of today — and help us win the fights of tomorrow.”

The program will offer on-the-job training and mentorship opportunities, directly connecting participants with career paths. Grantees must develop comprehensive, individualized support to help participants complete the program and secure employment. Grantees may use award portions to support participants’ transportation, childcare, mental health, or work equipment.

Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu highlighted the program’s focus on inclusivity, stating, “An inclusive approach to growing our transportation workforce is vital to our economic growth.” She added, “This historic investment couples time-tested training models like apprenticeship with critical supports like childcare, access to counseling, or basic needs like uniforms.”

Applicants are encouraged to partner to ensure program access for individuals with barriers to employment, including low-income, justice-involved, and English language learner populations. Awards are limited to $500,000.

Applications for the Road to Careers program are open until February 28, 2025, with grants commencing in May 2025. Interested parties can find more information, including application documents and relevant policies, on the Maryland Department of Labor’s Road to Careers website.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.