Health Tech Alley (HTA), in collaboration with Maryland Apprenticeship Connector (MAC) and a network of partners, announces the launch of its Business Analytics, Data Science and AI Youth Apprenticeship Program, beginning on Aug. 26.
This first-of-its-kind program aims to equip high school students with essential skills to thrive in the rapidly growing emerging technologies field, including data management, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML).
The new youth apprenticeship program, based at the Maryland Innovation Center, will offer high school seniors the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and complete recognized credentials in Google and Microsoft technologies. Students will engage in real-world projects in digital marketing, e-commerce, and community and population health, allowing them to apply what they have learned in practical settings.
“With the rapid advancement of AI and ML, it’s crucial that we prepare our youth for the future workforce,” said Greg Miller, Executive Director at HTA. “This apprenticeship not only provides technical skills but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that are essential in today’s digital economy. As the first program of its kind in Maryland, we are advancing the standard youth training in emerging technologies.”
The program also includes a business model for Data Science as a Service (DSaaS), specifically designed for public health companies. This model focuses on creating strategies to leverage tech-enabled services and emerging data science techniques to improve and advance outcomes. By providing specialized data analytics solutions, the program aims to help public health organizations better serve their communities. HTA has already identified several organizations that could significantly benefit from these tailored data science services, positioning the apprenticeship program as a valuable resource for both the apprentices and the broader community.
The Business Analytics, Data Science and AI Youth Apprenticeship Program has garnered significant support from key stakeholders, including the Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland Department of Labor, Howard County Public School System, Howard County Office of Workforce Development, Howard County Economic Development Authority, and the Institute for American Apprenticeships. This program was fostered by the work of the Maryland Apprenticeship Connector (MAC).
“The Apprenticeship Maryland Program provides students a unique opportunity to begin working in their career field during their senior year of high school. It allows them to earn while they learn through a structured, comprehensive program that includes related technical instruction that often leads to industry certification and licensing,” said Stephanie Discepolo, Office of Career and Technical Education, Howard County Public School System. “We are excited about the addition of the Business Analytics and Data Science positions to the HCPSS Apprenticeship Maryland Program. These apprenticeship positions will allow students to gain the necessary technical skills for careers in the business and technology fields. Employers participating in the program gain access to a talent pipeline specific to their industry needs. It is a win-win for everyone!”
HTA announced its initial cohort of five apprentices, all Howard County Public School high school seniors, at the Howard County Career Signing Day Ceremony on Monday, Aug. 12. For more information about the youth apprenticeship program or to inquire about partnership opportunities, please contact us at gmiller@healthtechalley.org or info@healthtechalley.org.
About Health Tech Alley
Health Tech Alley (HTA) is a nonprofit intermediary focused on innovative workforce programming and technology solutions that advance community health and community impact, helping ensure access and economic mobility for all. Learn more at healthtechalley.org.
About Maryland Apprenticeship Connector
The Maryland Apprenticeship Connector (MAC) is a collaborative effort of its founding partners, the Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation (MCCEI), Health Tech Alley (HTA), and Carroll Technology & Innovation Council (CTIC), to build an apprenticeship ecosystem for Maryland. MAC exists to illuminate the undeniable value of apprenticeships, championing them as an essential pathway across all industries to achieve immediate operational benefits while also future-proofing employers’ workforces. Visit macworkforce.org to learn more.
