Apprenticeship Maryland Program
STUDENT GUIDEBOOK
Welcome
Congratulations on taking this important step toward a successful and awesome future. An apprenticeship is an exciting opportunity for you to start your career while still in high school. You will be able to gain hands-on experience, learn industry-specific skills, and develop connections with professionals in your field. Being part of this program is more than having a part-time job because you are learning and growing personally and professionally.
This guidebook is like a map that will get you where you want to go. It provides important information and resources to help you succeed throughout your apprenticeship experience.
If you have questions or need help, make sure that you let us know. Get ready for the adventure and let’s make your apprenticeship amazing!
What is Apprenticeship?
What is On-the-Job Training?
The Apprenticeship Maryland Program is a pathway under Career and Technical Education that meets the requirements for graduation. Students receive a total of four credits in the program. One credit for Apprenticeship Industry Instruction CT-590-1 and three credits for Apprenticeship Work-Based Learning CT-595-3. Participating in the program allows you to learn specific job-related skills and gain an understanding of the Industry.
On-the-job (OJT) training is learning by doing – it’s where you practice and apply new skills directly at your workplace. It gives you hands-on experience, making you more confident and capable in your job
What is Related Instruction?
Related Instruction (RI) is the academic part of your job training You learn the knowledge and methodology behind the practical skills you’re developing. It is the ‘‘why’’ behind what you’re learning at your job and is an important part of your experience.
How is Apprenticeship different than an
Internship?
An apprenticeship is unlike other programs because you are paid to learn. It is a career pathway with wage increases that can lead to certification and/or licensing An Apprenticeship requires related instruction specific to the industry and an organized plan for training.
What is my commitment?
Get excited for the journey ahead. Use these simple principles to guide your actions along the way and you’re already headed for success.
Understand the apprenticeship agreement and what is expected of you at work and in the classroom. Commit to working hard and enjoying the process.
Always respect and learn from the experienced teachers and mentors who are helping you Be considerate of your coworkers
Go to and actively participate in OJT and Related Instruction. It’s a privilege to be selected to participate in this program so make the most of it!
Show strong dedication and a real desire to learn the job you’ve chosen Show up to work and class ready to learn and determined to succeed.
Remember, you are a HCPSS student at all times, even while on the job. Scan the QR Code or click here to review the student code of conduct policies.
What to Expect
How will I be supported?
The best part of being an HCPSS IT Student Apprentice is the community and people I get to work alongside as well as gaining hands-on experience.
Noah Morra, IT Student Apprentice
Culture
Cares about your success Believes in your potential. Is excited to teach you. Is invested in your growth Be part of a culture that:
Mentorship Support
Apprenticeship
Peers
Be social and make friends Learn together. Support each other. Enjoy shared interests and hobbies.
Workplace
Gain a Mentor and Coach Be part of a team. Join workplace events. Become an important part of the workforce
Community
TAKE A LOOK at what apprenticeship is all about! Hear how other students are benefiting from the apprenticeship life and getting a head start on their futures.
What to Expect
What is my path to completion?
Apprentices who complete their program earn an average annual starting salary of over $70,000.
Training Begins
Start hands-on instruction
Getting Started
Complete all the steps to officially become an employee (fingerprinting, drug testing, paperwork, etc.)
Learn about your new role
Understand the training plan and process
Sign and return the Apprenticeship Agreement
Train with skilled teachers and mentors
Begin employment and OJT
Attend related instruction
Complete 450 OJT Hours
Complete related instruction
Pass all classes
Show proficiency in required skills
Mastery of Skills
Review of your progress
Testing of technical skills and knowledge
Participate in evaluations and reviews
Employment, OJT, and RI continue
On-the-Job Training
What is required of me?
Work Hours
You must complete at least 450 paid work hours, approximately 20 hours a week You may work more hours with employer approval However, you must work throughout the school year even if you meet the minimum requirement early.
State and Federal laws prohibit you from working more than 12 hours per day combined with your academic coursework.
Schedule
Schedules vary depending on your industry/employer. You may begin your day at work and take your required classes in the afternoon, (i.e. English and Mathematics) or vice-versa. You may also complete your classes at Howard Community College but you must schedule them around work and related instruction schedules. HCPSS will support enrollment in evening school if you experience conflicts with scheduling
Schedule At a Glance
Math and English plus any other required courses
AT HIGH SCHOOL ON-THE-JOB
On-the-job training, in the form of paid, work-based, learning
Skills-based curriculum Industry certifications and/or other Credentials
At least 1 day per week N/A
Some programs require continued training beyond high school.
Elon Musk and Steve Jobs started their careers as apprentices before founding their iconic companies.
On-the-Job Training
Attendance & Punctuality
You are expected to report to work on your scheduled days even when school is closed
Credit Hours
You will be registered in the Apprenticeship Work-Based Learning (CT-595-3) course
You must follow your employer’s policies and procedures to report absences. Give advance notice for time-off requests.
Showing up late or missing work can lead to you getting fired from your job
You will successfully complete all coursework
Earn up to three credit hours
Termination of Employment Transportation
You will provide your own transportation to and from the worksite. It is your responsibility to take care of all travel costs including gas and parking.
Apprenticeships come with expectations and responsibilities Failure to follow workplace rules, show up for work, or behave appropriately can result in termination from employment.
Harassment is any unwelcome verbal or physical conduct, graphic materials, sexual advances, or other acts that interfere with a person’s work or can reasonably be seen to create hostile, intimidating, or offensive environments.
You should expect to be treated with respect. You are also expected to treat your coworkers with respect Be aware of your actions and report any misconduct.
Watch this short video to learn more about anti-harassment and on-the-job conduct.
Harassment
Training
What
is the
Apprenticeship Agreement?
Your signed agreement must be submitted within 10 days of your start date.
The apprenticeship agreement is a contract between the student, employer, parent/guardian, and HCPSS that outlines the roles and responsibilities of each party. The agreement is a State of Maryland legal document for the Apprenticeship Maryland Program.
An Apprenticeship Agreement is a legal contract
and responsibilities for each party.
You can download an apprenticeship agreement, complete the required sections, and then return it to your apprenticeship coordinator.
Provide your personal information here.
Your parent/Guardian must fill out this section and provide the required information.
Provide your schedule. Be sure to include when and where you will be attending required high school classes.
On-the-Job Training
What is a Training Plan?
As a youth apprentice, your training plan is a personalized guide that helps you achieve your career goals. It outlines what you'll learn, how you'll learn it, and how you'll be evaluated.
Annual goals lead to completion and career advancement Quarterly goals align with annual objectives Each week builds on the previous one
Defines Roles and Responsibilities
Program Begins
Start with a defined plan for teaching the skills and knowledge required to be successful in the workplace
Provides a clear timeline
Sets benchmarks for skills training Increases responsibility and independence Allows for adjustments to the plan as needed Documents assessments, evaluations, and reviews
Increases Roles and Responsibilities
Completion
Skills and competencies build throughout the program leading to certification, credentialing and/or Licensing
After Graduation
What are my pathways?
STA (Registered Apprenticeship)
Apprenticeship to Continuing Education
cher, I learn from ay. The skills you pprenticeship are or life.”
Sara High, IEC Instructor
Apprenticeship to
Becoming an Employee
What is my role?
1
94% of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship program stay employed.
2
You are a paid employee.
While you’re completing your OJT, you officially become a paid employee This title shows how important and real your role is in the workplace As an employee, you must follow the same rules, policies and procedures as any other staff member.
3
You will master new skills.
You will become knowledgeable in a new set of skills. You will be evaluated by your supervisor, mentor and instructors. HCPSS doesn’t control or influence your grade. Your evaluations show how well you’re doing, the skills you’re learning, and how committed you are to your role as an apprentice
You are responsible for your actions.
Even though HCPSS helps and supports the apprenticeship program, we try not to get involved in the daily details of how you and your employer work together. The school system trusts both you and your employer to manage this professional journey.
4
Your success is up to you.
You must show commitment, be able to take instruction, and prove you are an asset to the team. By managing your work relationships and responsibilities, you’re taking the first steps to a successful career.
Accommodations
Disclosing your disability is voluntary. You should only disclose your disability if/when you feel comfortable and when you need to request a reasonable accommodation. If you need help, scan the QR Code or click here for additional resources.
Becoming an Employee
What is my employer’s role?
Assign a mentor/coach to support, advise and guide you
Provide an opportunity for you to work a minimum of 450 hours throughout the school year.
Share a training plan to help you learn the skills needed for your job
Set clear guidelines and training on safety rules and expectations.
Provide quarterly feedback to let you know what you’re doing well and where you can improves.
Make your learning environment a place where you can feel safe from harm, bullying or abuse.
Questions about workplace safety?
Safe Work is Rewarding Work
To help protect yourself, you should:
Report unsafe conditions; Wear all safety gear required to do your job; Follow the safety rules; and, Ask questions.
Gaining a Mentor What is the role of a mentor?
Stepping into my role as an apprentice has been a great honor. I feel I’ve matured a lot and built up a lot of confidence in myself and my ability as a future CNA.
Imagine having a helpful guide on your journey to becoming great at your dream job. That’s what a mentor is! They’re like your personal coach in your career adventure. They give you advice, share their knowledge, introduce you to important people, and help you get better at what you love doing.
Listen and Advise
Lamisah Hassan, CNA Student Apprentice
Becoming a Mentee What is my role?
Watch this short video for TEN TIPS on how to be a successful mentee.
Your employer pays your wages and agrees to assign a mentor to you while on the job. That’s a big investment in you!
Be flexible and have fun!
Be responsible for your own learning.
Take initiative and ask for guidance.
Be appreciative of their support
Respect your Mentor’s time.
Be prepared for meetings
Apprentice Tips How can I be a great employee?
You’ve got this! If you are excited about your new role and ready to learn, you’re already winning Use these simple tips to guide your actions as you’re learning to become an employee and skilled worker.
Follow the Golden Rules
1. Conscientiousness is showing that you care about every aspect of your job.
2. Appropriateness is knowing what’s appropriate in different situations.
3. Emotional Intelligence is being aware of your own emotions, as well as other people’s feelings.
4. Ethical Behavior is acting honorably or, in other words, playing by the rules.
5. Courteous & Polite is being friendly, nice, and well-mannered.
Tips for Managing Tasks
5 Question Framework
Be sure you can answer all five of the following questions before you begin a task. If you’re unsure about anything, ask for clarity.
1. What I am supposed to do?
2. How long should it take?
3. When is it due?
4. Do I know how to do it?
5. Do I have the resources or tools I need?
Take comprehensive notes.
Ask yourself the 5 Question Framework.
Get clear deadlines.
Request an example or demonstration when necessary.
Check in to make sure you are on the right track.
Leave any fear of “stupid questions” at the door.
Apprentice Tips How do I handle conflict?
Conflict can be good or bad depending on how we learn to deal with it. Handle a small conflict as soon as possible so it doesn’t get worse. Conflict is a normal part of life!
Communicate Openly
Expressing how you feel about the situation and sticking to the facts will let the other person know you’re genuine in your actions. Stay focused on the problem at hand.
Actively Listen
Listen to what the other person has to say, without interrupting. Active listening is a skill that you can learn and practice
Discuss Options
Talk over the options, looking for solutions that benefit everyone Do not feel pressured to come up with one answer immediately. Bring in an objective third party for ideas, if necessary.
End with a Win-Win Solution
This is the ultimate goal to agree on an option that benefits both sides to some extent When one party wins by aggressive behavior or simply gives in, someone is losing. And that means you do not resolve the underlying causes of the conflict.
Know When to Seek Help
If you cannot resolve conflict on your own, reach out to your supervisor for help. If the problem continues, contact your HCPSS coordinator.
First Day ToolKit
Make a great first impression
Put your checklist in Notes. For an easy way to access your checklist when you need it most, copy and paste it into your phone in Notes.
Be Proud Relax Do your Research
Getting an apprenticeship is a huge achievement, so you should feel really proud. It’s easy to doubt yourself, but you weren’t ‘just lucky’ you have earned this!
This is easier said than done You will probably be feeling a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, relief and fear Relax, do your best but don’t try to be perfect.
Prepare your uniform or know your company’s dress code ahead of time.
Pack everything you need for your first day ahead of time. If you’re unsure what paperwork or tools you’ll need, ask your employer.
Plan to arrive 10 minutes early, taking into account traffic and parking time.
Review your orientation material before your first day
Take lots of notes.
Smile and say “thank you”. A positive attitude can make a big difference in how others perceive you
It will always look great on your first day if you walk into your new job with some understanding of the company Do your research it will not go unnoticed!
FIRST DAY CHECKLIST
Arrive at least 10 minutes early.
Bring a notepad and pen to take notes.
Introduce yourself to your coworkers.
Make eye contact and shake hands.
Listen and learn from coworkers.
Ask questions if unsure about something.
Stay focused and avoid distractions
Be honest about your skill level
Be open to learning new tasks
Show initiative and look for ways to help.
Follow instructions and be patient.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Don’t worry when you make mistakes.
If you finish early, ask what you can do next.
Ask to help others.
Ask for extra projects.
Be enthusiastic.
Ask how you did.
Ask what you did well.
Ask what you can do better. Expect mistakes and learn.
Store the toolkit on your phone.
Notes will scan and store images
Scan the pages of the First Day Toolkit and save them on your phone.
If something is unclear to you, it is likely others are confused. Shows you care and helps you learn
Gives you confidence
Who will be my boss and my mentor?
What are my most important tasks?
How will you evaluate my performance?
How can I be most helpful?
What benefits will I receive?
What is your holiday policy?
When should I take breaks?
Whom should I be sure to meet this week?
It’s your job to let your supervisor know when you’re ready for another task. Speak up and ask for your next project.
Be prepared to answer questions about yourself.
Remember that it’s okay not to know everything on your first day.
Be yourself, stay confident, and embrace this exciting new opportunity!
What should I do with my phone?
Who do I talk to about concerns?
Who do I call if I can’t to come into work?
What is my most important task? Can
Prepare and practice a short introduction about yourself, talk about your interests, skills, and why you’re excited about the apprenticeship
FAQs
You are required to submit your hours through the online apprenticeship app/website that will be provided to you. It is important that you submit your hours on time so that we can track your progress and help make sure you’re on track for completion.
The Apprenticeship Maryland Program is designed to help you reach graduation requirements and set you on a career path after graduation. If you are unable to complete your apprenticeship, you will be required to meet with your employer, school counselor, and the program coordinator to determine how to proceed
While you can always change your mind about your chosen career pathway, you will not be able to start a new apprenticeship position once the program has begun. Apprenticeships have strict guidelines to ensure you receive the best possible training. Additionally, acceptance into the program is highly competitive and spaces are limited.
Apprenticeships offer a progressive pay wage which means your employer is required to compensate you as you progress through the program. Specific pay raise schedules vary by occupation and company Your manager will review your pay wage benchmarks with you at your employee orientation
Depending on which program you are enrolled in, you may earn college credit on a course-bycourse basis. Some programs offer college credit upon completion of the entire program, such as electrical.
What tasks will I be expected to perform on my first day?
Your tasks on the first day will vary depending on the workplace and the specific role you’ll be undertaking. Typically, you can expect to receive guidance and supervision from a mentor or supervisor as you familiarize yourself with your duties.
Am I done once the 450 hour requirement is completed?
The program is a school-year commitment. Your apprenticeship will continue even if you have met your 450 hours. Students who are enrolled in registered apprenticeships will require 2,000 OJT hours.
Will I earn a certification while in the program?
All students will receive a Certificate of Completion and a graduation cord from the Maryland Department of Labor Some of the positions will lead to certification before graduation, such as Certified Nursing Assistant, Child Care Specialist, and Information Technology. Other positions may be working toward licensing and/or certification at the end of a 2-3 year program, such as electrical and cosmetology/barbering.
Can I work more than 20 hours a week?
Yes, you are required to work a minimum of 20 hours a week. However, students may choose to work full-time if they elect to take their English and Math at Howard Community College or with the Innovative Pathways Program through evening school.
What happens when I graduate?
You should anticipate full-time employment. Be sure to discuss opportunities with your employer.
Contact Worksheet
Networking helps fill 85% of positions. Keep in touch with your supervisors and coworkers.
Use this space to keep track of important contacts You’ll want to make sure you can keep in contact with supervisors, coworkers, teachers and other students in the program
NAME/ROLE
More and more, students, workers, and employers are seeking new ways to pursue employment and success that involve other education and training pathways.
Student Commitment
CONGRATULATIONS
for being selected to participate in the Apprenticeship Maryland Program
Student Commitment
I pledge to put forth my best effort to meet all the requirements of the program I promise to approach my responsibilities on the job with enthusiasm and dedication, striving to learn and grow each day I am eager to embrace this new role and make the most of this valuable opportunity to build a foundation for my future career.
Student Signature
The HCPSS Apprenticeship Team
Email: apprenticeship@hcpss.org
Stephanie Discepolo
Office: (410) 313-7493
Cell: (443) 774-4202
Amanda Malone
Office: (410) 313-1577
Cell: (443) 535-1497
APPRENTICESHIP MARYLAND PROGRAM
