Governor Moore Announces $4 Million in Next Round of Road to Careers Funding to Build Maryland’s Skilled Transportation Workforce
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced the availability of $4 million in funding through Maryland’s Road to Careers program. This second round of funding—through a program totaling $24 million over six years—will expand Maryland’s pipeline of highly skilled workers to build the state’s transportation and construction infrastructure.
“Through Road to Careers, we’re creating more opportunities for Marylanders to access good jobs in high-demand careers, while supporting critical state infrastructure projects,” said Gov. Moore. “Maryland is building a workforce that reflects our vision for the future—one where everyone has access to work, wages, and wealth, no matter their background or journey.”
Launched in 2024, Road to Careers is a six-year, $24 million joint initiative between the Maryland Department of Labor and Maryland Department of Transportation designed to strengthen Maryland’s talent pipeline for transportation and construction jobs. The program expands access to pre-apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship opportunities. Critically, it also provides wraparound services such as transportation, childcare, and mental health support for program participants—addressing barriers that often prevent workers from completing training and sustaining employment.
“Road to Careers is a game changer for hardworking Marylanders who are seeking greater opportunity,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “Pairing training with childcare and transportation supports will enable more Marylanders to move into good, family-sustaining jobs.”
This distinctive approach responds to industry demand for highly-skilled workers while also opening career pathways for Marylanders who have historically faced systemic barriers to employment, including individuals with low incomes, justice-involved individuals, and English language learners.
“The Road to Careers program is helping us meet critical workforce needs in transportation—strengthening our infrastructure while creating real economic opportunities for people across the state,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle. “It’s a win for our infrastructure and for our communities.”
Funding will be awarded to organizations through a competitive grant process. Successful applicants will deliver training aligned with the needs of the transportation and construction industries and provide holistic support that guides participants from enrollment to job placement and retention.
Applications for this round of Road to Careers funding are due by January 23, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Award announcements will be made in April 2026. Eligible organizations include local workforce boards, nonprofits, labor unions, community colleges, and other training providers.
A pre-proposal conference will be held on November 3 at 2 p.m. Please RSVP at road2.careers@maryland.gov. To learn more about Road to Careers and apply for funding, visit labor.maryland.gov/employment/
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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow MD Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and visit our website.
