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BCPS highlights expansion of career and technical education, youth apprenticeships and internships
Summary
District staff presented an overview of CTE programs and youth apprenticeship growth, reporting 1,508 internship placements and 75 apprenticeships last year, three youth apprentices this year in trades, expanded partnerships with employers (including hospitals and NSA) and targeted career navigators in high schools.
Baltimore County Public Schools staff presented a status report on career and technical education (CTE), youth apprenticeships and work‑based learning Tuesday, outlining program growth, industry certifications and partnerships with local employers.
CTE leaders reported that last year 1,508 students participated in internships and 75 participated in apprenticeships across BCPS, including youth apprentices in trades and non‑traditional fields. Staff highlighted industry‑recognized credentials (IRCs) offered through CTE programs, such as OSHA‑10, dental infection‑control certificates, Autodesk and aviation certifications (remote pilot/private pilot exams in partnership with CCBC) and a BASE biotech certification earned last spring by a BCPS student.
Presenters described youth apprenticeship pathways — programs that enroll students (typically juniors and seniors) in paid, supervised work experience of at least 450 hours plus related instruction — and said youth participation can yield advanced standing in adult apprenticeships. Last year BCPS hosted 31 youth apprentices during the school year and said BCPS remains a registered youth apprenticeship provider. Staff said economic conditions affect employer capacity to offer paid apprenticeships, so internships (including unpaid options) remain an alternative pathway for students seeking work‑based learning.
The district also described career navigation work: 25 career navigators placed in high schools last year who coordinate career experiences, internships, field trips and post‑graduation planning. Staff said navigators are expanding middle‑school connections this year as required by Maryland’s Blueprint for Education.
The board asked about employer recruitment and supports for students facing barriers. Staff said partnerships with the Department of Labor, Baltimore County Workforce Development and employers such as Constellation and Northwest Hospital help place students; Title I and McKinney‑Vento wraparound services were used to support apprentices who experienced housing instability, including transportation and meal support during placements.
Why it matters: CTE and apprenticeship expansion create pathways to careers for students who pursue non‑college options and provide pipelines for employers seeking skilled workers. Staff said expansion into non‑traditional apprenticeship fields (accounting, marketing, counseling) broadens opportunity for students with diverse interests.
What’s next: Staff said numbers for the coming school year are still being finalized; they described ongoing employer outreach and encouraged businesses and community members to contact work‑based learning coordinators and career navigators in individual high schools to partner with BCPS.
