Workforce System Success Stories - Workforce Development and Adult Learning

MEET MERCY...
With the help of the two DWDAL programs – Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program and EARN Maryland – Baltimore City resident Mercy enjoys a holistic improvement to her life (Baltimore).

A benefactor of the Apprenticeship Innovation Fund, New American Mercy was placed as an apprentice with an Independent Electrical Contractors’ company. However, she faced a transportation barrier of not owning her own vehicle. Along came the EARN Maryland strategic industry partnership Automotive Technicians for Change, whose lead applicant is Vehicles for Change (VFC). VFC, which provides training to returning citizens in automotive repair, is made possible through a collaboration between DWDAL/DLLR and Public Safety and Correctional Services. Through job readiness and targeted skills training, VFC participants make public car donations “road ready” then award them at affordable prices to eligible families in Maryland and the D.C. area (and now even Michigan!). Mercy was the proud recipient of a car and can now move forward in her apprenticeship adventure and her career. As Mercy says, “…this door of opportunity…is a huge step. I will forever be grateful.”