While the hustle and bustle of summer grew in the city, the City Schools Operations Department welcomed 21 bright and eager students into their Internship and Apprenticeship Program.

As the program kicked off, it was evident that this year's batch was a diverse group, hailing from various high schools in the city. Among them were students from the Academy for College and Career Exploration, Baltimore School of the Arts, City Neighbors High School, Digital Harbor, Edmondson-Westside High School, Excel Academy at Francis M. Wood, Mergenthaler Vocational-Technical High School, REACH! Partnership, and Western High School – as well as a few non-City Schools campuses.

Two of the students were recruited to the program by interns who had previously thrived in this nurturing environment - a testament to the impact of the program.

For many of the students, it was the opportunity of a lifetime. They would receive a diverse range of training, from on-the-job skills to essential life lessons that would shape their futures.

Five of the interns were CTE students in the Foundations of Building & Construction Technology pathway. Leonard Shelley and Eric Perry from Edmondson-Westside High School, and Ashton Eaton, Jamal Middleton, and Jaydon Forbes from Mervo used this opportunity to hone their skills and prepare for a career that promises them a bright future in the world of construction and maintenance.

But among these 21 students, one story would make this summer program truly exceptional.

Conyae Anderson is now the first City Schools student to receive a job offer from the district’s Operations department through the Youthworks program. Conyae will be a Building Maintenance Worker starting in September 2023. It was a momentous occasion for him and the entire program, as it signaled a significant step towards a more inclusive and diverse initiative.

As the summer unfolded, these 21 students and apprentices embarked on a journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery. They forged friendships, grew their skills, and built the foundation for their future careers. And Conyae Anderson's achievement served as a shining example of what could be accomplished through dedication and hard work.

More about the Operations Internship and Apprenticeship Program:

Each student intern and apprentice had to undergo a rigorous interview process conducted by a panel. Only those who demonstrated exceptional potential and commitment were accepted, ensuring that the program continued to thrive with motivated individuals.

The program was funded through the Operations Office. It showcased the organization's unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation and investing in their future success.

Operations Department empowers tomorrow's workforce