MACEM and MEMA Seeking Business Partners for New Apprenticeship Program

FREDERICK, MD (Oct. 31, 2017) – The Mid-Atlantic Center for Emergency Management (MACEM) at Frederick Community College (FCC) and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) are seeking employers to partner with in creating a new emergency management apprenticeship program. Employers must be located in the state of Maryland but can be any type of business or organization that is in need of emergency management support.

“We are looking for employers to work with us to develop the next generation of emergency managers,” said Kathy Francis, executive director for emergency management at FCC. “Many different professions require emergency management, and connecting motivated students with employers looking to expand their emergency management capabilities is a win-win.”

The apprenticeship program will fill a gap in Maryland’s emergency management workforce and will help employers by providing a trained pool of potential employees.

“I am truly excited about this new opportunity,” said Russell Strickland, executive director of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency. “This is another gateway for those who are interested in a career in the ever-expanding field of emergency management.”

MACEM is developing its Registered Apprenticeship program in partnership with the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s (DLLR) Apprenticeship and Training Program. According to Labor Secretary Kelly Schulz, “The creation of this first-in-Maryland emergency management apprenticeship program will help fill these vital occupations by broadening our pool of qualified candidates. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate in support of Maryland’s emergency management industry.”

The program will combine academic courses with on-the-job training completed at the employer’s work site. It is geared toward individuals looking to gain full-time employment and academic credentials in the field of emergency management.

MACEM and MEMA are partnering with Anne Arundel Community College, Montgomery College, and the University of Maryland University College to expand the reach of this program. Individuals will be able to take their academic courses at any of the four higher education institutions.

Employers who are interested in learning more about becoming a partner in this program should contact Kathy Francis or 240-629-7804.

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