FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMEDIA CONTACTS:Paul Shepard Office: 410-767-3935 Cell: 443-622-4181 pshepard@mdot.maryland.govCourtney Mims Office: 410 -767-8367 Cell: 667-392-0157 cmims@mdot.maryland.govPartnership with Community College of Baltimore County to Expand Career Opportunities, Close Gap in Demand for Skilled MechanicsBALTIMORE, MD (August 21, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration has announced the launch of its inaugural Bus Maintenance Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with the Community College of Baltimore County. Through this initiative, the agency aims to expand job opportunities and develop a resilient workforce. Applications are being accepted through August 30. Ten candidates will be selected to enter the three-year program, which begins in mid-October. “Our Bus Maintenance Apprenticeship program will increase MTA's skilled workforce and create quality, accessible jobs right here in Baltimore," said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “By combining practical training with classroom instruction, this program will be a direct pathway to a fulfilling career in transit."The full-time apprenticeship program was developed in partnership with Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1300 and approved by the Maryland Department of Labor. Apprentices will receive a starting salary of $18.72 per hour ($38,937.60 annually). The curriculum will span three years and culminate with a graduation for the inaugural class in 2027. First year curriculum is designed to provide apprentices with classroom instruction and on-the-job training in essential skill areas such as truck orientation, shop safety, tools and equipment, brakes, steering and suspension, engine mechanics, and preventive maintenance.“We are proud to partner with the Maryland Transit Administration and the Community College of Baltimore County," said ATU President Mike McMillan. “Investing in worker training and education is always a smart decision, and this is one that promises a long-lasting impact."The Maryland Transit Administration encourages individuals interested in a rewarding career in bus maintenance to visit mta.maryland.gov/join to learn more about the program. To apply, applicants must be at least 18 years of age, possess a high school diploma or GED equivalency, hold a Class C driver's license with the ability to obtain a CDL, and have one year of mechanical theory background from an accredited technical or vocational program. Selected candidates will be notified by September 16, 2024.The Maryland Transit Administration is one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the United States, and operates Local Bus, Commuter Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train Service and a comprehensive Mobility paratransit system. The goal of the Maryland Transit Administration is to provide safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. To learn more, visit mta.maryland.gov, check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mtamaryland and follow us on Twitter @mtamaryland.