Are You Interested in Hosting a Youth Apprentice? Learn How Lindsey’s Experience Shaped Her Future!

By Lindsey Blum, FCWS Youth Apprentice

Patty McDonald, Aaron Eleazer, Rae Powell, Lindsey Blum

February is Youth Leadership Month, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible opportunities that have shaped my journey with Frederick County Workforce Services. Through their programs, I’ve gained valuable skills, built confidence, and learned about the importance of leadership.

Coming into Frederick County Workforce Services as a High School Youth Apprentice, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Being so young with so little experience, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. I was about to step into a job with real responsibilities, alongside people who had years of experience. There were constant questions going through my mind such as would I fit in, would they treat me like a child, and would I even be able to contribute to better help FCWS?

At first, it felt like an overwhelming challenge. This was the first time I couldn’t wear sweatpants and a sweatshirt to fit in with the environment around me. I sat in my cubical surrounded by people who had already mastered the skills needed for the job. The learning curve seemed steeps, and I found myself asking for clarification on almost everything. It was humbling but made me more determined to prove that even thought I was young I could make a meaningful impact. As the days went on, I began to feel more comfortable. The tasks started easy with things like researching more about the company and learning the basic day to day routine. As time continued, I learned about the difference FCWS truly makes. Everyday there were new opportunities to see how the team worked together to support the community’s needs. Over time I was able to see the impact that our services offered, and realized how essential my role was in supporting job seekers, even in the smallest ways.

I’ve had the opportunity to hone my leadership skills in a variety of hands-on ways. One of the most impactful lessons I learned was how to effectively run a meeting, ensuring that every voice was heard. I had to learn that everyone’s ideas contributed to achieving the desired outcome, not just my own. I discovered how to mix my creative side with leadership and created projects. One of the projects I’m particularly proud of is the creation of the "Hotseat", a year-long "get to know you" experience designed to build camaraderie and foster connections within the group. In addition to project management, I was also able to take on responsibilities that directly contributed to the visibility and success of FCWS. I helped represent the organization at job fairs, where I interacted face to face with potential employees and employers. These experiences have not only developed my professional skills, but also deepened my understanding of how leadership can positively affect both an organization and the people it supports.

If there is one thing that I learned from becoming a youth apprentice with FCWS, it is that stepping out of your comfort zone makes you stronger. The challenges I faced, from learning new tasks to working with experienced professionals, pushed me to adapt and grow in ways I hadn’t expected. Each moment of discomfort taught me resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of perseverance. It showed me that growth isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Frederick County Workforce Services changes lives, but youth leaders change futures!