CAMBRIDGE — Garrett Walker, a senior at North Dorchester High School and a student in the welding program at Dorchester Career and Technology Center, has signed an apprenticeship agreement with GKD-USA, making him the first Dorchester County participant in Apprenticeship Maryland. As part of the apprenticeship program, Garrett will complete 450 hours of paid work with GKD-USA and earn four credits towards graduation.

Apprenticeship Maryland is a new state program that gives businesses the opportunity to train, influence, and shape high school students into top performing employees who are invested in the business. The program is designed for 11th and 12th graders and apprenticeships are available in various fields.

Garrett is excited about the opportunity and said, “I like everything about welding and am looking forward to my apprenticeship at GKD-USA.”

“The Maryland Apprenticeship Program initiative is a powerful way to link Dorchester County students with local businesses in the county and provide future opportunities for employment,” said Jacqueline Sorrells, Career Counseling and Apprenticeship coordinator for Dorchester County Public Schools.

She urges any business, student, or parent who would like more information about the program to contact her at sorrellsl@dcpsmd.org or call her at DCTC on 410-901-6950.