Maryland Invests Over $5 Million in Workforce Training, Aiming to Equip Thousands for High-Demand Careers

Governor Wes Moore has announced that over $5.2 million in new funding has been awarded through the Employment Advancement Right Now (EARN) Maryland program. This initiative is designed to connect more than 2,000 Maryland residents with training opportunities for in-demand jobs, assist nearly 1,000 individuals in securing employment in critical sectors like technology and healthcare, and provide upskilling for over 1,100 current workers. The program aims to strengthen Maryland’s economy by ensuring a skilled workforce and supporting business growth.

The grants will specifically target high-growth industries, with approximately $1.9 million allocated for healthcare training and $1.1 million designated for information technology. The EARN Maryland program operates through industry-led partnerships, connecting employers with educational and training institutions to develop programs that provide the specific skills employers are actively seeking. This approach ensures that training is relevant and leads directly to employment opportunities.

The EARN Maryland program has a proven track record of success. It has been recognized nationally for its effectiveness in creating pathways to well-paying jobs and fostering economic development. Since the current administration took office, the program has supported training for nearly 6,000 Marylanders and placed more than 4,000 individuals into jobs, representing an investment of $35 million. The program’s economic impact is estimated to be $19 for every $1 invested.

To ensure continued support for these crucial workforce development efforts, Governor Moore recently signed the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, which includes $15.3 million in annual funding for the EARN Maryland program. This funding level follows a $5 million expansion in Fiscal Year 2026, underscoring the state’s commitment to workforce training. The organizations receiving these latest awards include community colleges, local workforce development boards, and nonprofit organizations. These entities will collaborate with numerous Maryland businesses to deliver training programs tailored to local workforce needs and industry demands.

A diverse range of organizations received funding to address specific sector needs across the state. In the healthcare sector, awards were granted to 1199SEIU, Adventist HealthCare, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation, Associated Catholic Charities, Inc., Community College of Baltimore County for both general healthcare and dental programs, Health Tech Alley, Inc., It Works Learning Center, Inc., Jack and Nancy Dwyer Workforce Development Center, and Seeking Employment, Equality and Community for People with Developmental Disabilities. Allegany College, SANS Institute, and Susquehanna Workforce Network received funding for IT and cybersecurity training.

Other awarded organizations will focus on various critical industries. Baltimore BioWorks, Maryland Cannabis Administration, and Maryland Tech Council received funding for biotechnology initiatives. Civic Works and Howard EcoWorks will support clean energy training. The Community College of Baltimore County also received funding for sign language interpretation training. The hospitality sector will benefit from grants to Franciscan Center and Sunflower Bakery.

In the manufacturing and skilled trades, Jane Addams Resource Corporation received support for manufacturing training, while Living Classrooms Foundation will focus on skilled trades. Additionally, Maryland MEP received funding for both its general Manufacturing Technical Pathways Program and a rural manufacturing initiative. Montgomery College will utilize its award for childcare training. Further details on all EARN awardees and their specific regions of impact within Maryland can be found on the Maryland Department of Labor website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

Video Spotlight