During a recent Business Virtual Roundtable hosted by MSDE TV, key stakeholders discussed the launch of a new youth apprenticeship program aimed at bridging the gap between education and industry in St. Mary's County. Mary Kay Myers, finance director at the Patuxent Partnership, highlighted the initiative called "Tech Jobs Rule," which is a collaborative effort involving the Patuxent Partnership, the Doctor James A. Forrest Center, St. Mary's County Public Schools, and the Strategic Education Office of the Naval Air Warfare Center.
This program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in technology-related fields, preparing them for future careers while meeting the workforce needs of local industries. By fostering partnerships between government, academia, and industry, the initiative aims to create a skilled workforce that can contribute to the region's economic growth.
The roundtable emphasized the importance of such programs in equipping youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market. As the program progresses, it is expected to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen community ties, ultimately benefiting both students and local businesses.