Pohanka Apprenticeship Workshop will help students with new career advancement opportunities

SALISBURY, Md. – Pohanka’s Automotive Training Center was the site for the ‘Apprenticeship Awareness Workshop’. At the event were State Dignitaries and Local Educators from across the Eastern Shore.

The purpose of the apprenticeship program is to help students find career pathways in the automotive and technical fields. Maryland State Senator, Mary Beth Carozza is excited about how this will help shape other industries in the state. “The goal is to increase apprenticeship across the state to meet the workforce shortages in key industries like automotive and Pohanka.”

She is a board member of the 2030 Commission, and the group plans on working toward other areas to promote career advancement for students. Worcester County Public Schools CTE Coordinator, Dr. Brian Phillips believes the Pohanka apprenticeship will give students the inside track to success.

“They will get a leg up; now they can start working on an apprenticeship either youth apprenticeship or school apprenticeship and ultimately be hired by Pohanka full time.”

Last year, the program graduated 13 students. This year they are on track to put through 74 students into graduation. Currently, the program’s new partnership with Wor-Wic Community College will allow students to get involved. College President, Dr. Deborah Casey believes this will be beneficial.

“About 24 credits will articulate to our program. This will help students enroll in our business associates degree, with the hope they will complete the degree. Eventually, moving into supervisory positions.”