The Hospitality and Tourism Program: Apprenticeship Success

Creating Opportunity Through Collaboration

The team at FCC’s Hospitality and Tourism program identified a critical need: making apprenticeship opportunities more attractive and accessible to local employers.  Through collaboration with Frederick County Workforce services, we are able to leverage resources to off-set the costs associated with apprenticeship training for our local businesses.

As a result of this collaboration, a new business has signed-on to host apprentices from the Hospitality and Tourism program. This individual is the inaugural participant in the Hospitality and Tourism Apprenticeship program here in Frederick County. This partnership exemplifies how businesses can achieve workforce growth while fostering talent development, paving the way for sustained success in a competitive industry.

Julian’s Journey: A Model for Success

Julian’s story illustrates the transformative power of apprenticeship programs. In June 2023, Julian began his recovery journey from substance use disorder. When he came to FCWS, he was working part-time and experiencing housing instability. Through participation in the Recovery to Work Academy (R2W), he engaged with case managers who supported his passion for the culinary arts.

Julian received funding for Culinary Certificate training at FCC and completed the R2W academy with Workforce Services and began coursework at FCC that aligned with his career goals. During his training, Julian connected with a new local business exploring the potential of a Registered Apprenticeship program to meet workforce needs and anticipated growth.

Today, Julian is enrolled in a two-year apprenticeship, working toward earning his certification and the business has a talent pipeline to help them thrive in the Frederick Community. This dual approach—combining on-the-job training with formal education—positions Julian for long-term success in the industry. Moreover, he has achieved stable housing and secured full-time employment, demonstrating the broader life-changing impact of these programs.

Why Businesses Should Partner in Apprenticeship Programs

For businesses, apprenticeship programs represent a strategic investment in workforce development. By partnering with educational institutions and workforce agencies, businesses gain access to a pipeline of motivated, trained professionals. These partnerships not only address immediate hiring needs but also contribute to long-term workforce stability and growth. By investing in apprenticeships, businesses not only cultivate skilled employees but also strengthen the economic fabric of the community.