July 8, 2025 - Minutes of Public Meetings - Apprenticeship and Training Council

Present

Councilmembers* - Title/Affiliation

Brian S. Cavey - Chairman/Employee Representative
Lateefah Durant - Public Representative
Neil Wilford, Jr. - Employee Representative
Grant Shmelzer - Employer Representative
Minah Woo - Employer Representative
Chris Hadfield - Employer Representative
Tasha Cornish - Employer Representative

* Prior to the meeting, Employer Representative, Stephanie Anderson, and Employee Representative, Terreia Smalls notified Director Chris MacLarion that they would be unable to be in attendance.

Other Attendees - Title/Affiliation

John Feaster - Deputy Assistant Secretary, Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL), Maryland Department of Labor (MD Labor)
Peggy Dall’Acqua - Maryland Assistant Attorney General
Tracy Kyttle - Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)
Christopher D. MacLarion - Director, Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP), MD Labor
Jane Sinclair - MATP, MD Labor
Logan Dean - MATP, MD Labor
Gina Best - MATP, MD Labor
Sheila Jackson - MATP, MD Labor
Amy Belt - MATP, MD Labor
Karen Parker - MATP, MD Labor
Aneta Lefterov - MATP, MD Labor
Kevin Hunt - MATP, MD Labor
Alicia Dennis - MATP, MD Labor
Pam Luby - MATP, MD Labor
Marshel Pollock - MATP, MD Labor
Angela Harkness - MATP, MD Labor
Jacqueline Trieu - MATP, MD Labor
Laura Wright - MATP, MD Labor
Rose Fish - MATP, MD Labor
Angela Clark - MATP, MD Labor
Jennifer White - MATP, MD Labor
Teresa Mena - MATP, MD Labor
Lynn Stone - MATP, MD Labor
Coral Newland - MATP, MD Labor
Logan Dean - MATP, MD Labor
Ellie Marts - DWDAL, MD Labor
Anahitta Mian - DWDAL, MD Labor
Javonte McDonald - DWDAL, MD Labor
Reva Coussey - MD Labor
Stephanie Strainse - Inclusive Clean Energy
Mateen Abdullah - Affinity Community Development, Inc.
Sharon Miller - B&B Precision Wire, Inc.
Tammy Leader - Big Red Services
Connie Russell - C.L. Russell Group Workforce Solutions
Yvette Clark - Mayor’s Office for Employment Development (MOED)
Chelsey Stamegna - FER-PAL Construction USA, LLC
Tracy Murray - Stella May Contracting,
John Ferrero - Stella May Contracting
Kelvin Abrams - Tiki’s Playhouse
Sierra Dischel - Asian American Center of Frederick (AACF)
Kate Perova - AACF
Maria Chaplygine - AACF
Vanda Yamkovenko - AACF
Sharlene Trusty - Baltimore City Government
Charlotte Marz - Calvert Internal Medicine
Joyce Guo - Capital Sprinkler
Elizabeth Wojtisek - Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)
Ted McCadden - CCBC
Jay Bouis - CCBC
James Rzepkowski - Howard Community College (HCC)
Jeff Richmond - HCC
Melissa Smith - HCC
Michelle Dill - HCC
Matt Baylis - Harford Community College
Che’ Evans - Baltimore City Community College (BCCC)
Kenneth Hopkins - BCCC
Carla Milan - Frederick Community College (FCC)
Sagrario Ortiz - El Poder de Ser Mujer
Dr.Adetoro Oriaifo - Quantum 5D Consulting, LLC
Dolly Bermudez - Howard County Government
Kathy Byron - Virginia Works
Angela Kelly-Wiecek - Virginia Works
Nicole Overly - Virginia Works

Chairman Cavey called the meeting to order at 9:01 a.m. at Howard Community College (10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Duncan Hall, Room 100, Columbia, MD 21044).

I. OPENING REMARKS AND INTRODUCTIONS

Chairman Cavey welcomed all Council members, staff and guests to the July Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council (MATC) meeting.

Chairman Cavey asked Council members, staff, and guests to introduce themselves.

Following introductions, the Chairman thanked all for attending and gave a special thanks to Council member Minah Woo and Howard Community College (HCC) for hosting the meeting and for providing breakfast. He invited her to make any opening remarks on behalf of the College.
Ms.Woo thanked everyone for attending, welcomed them all to HCC and quickly ran through some “house-keeping items” such as how to navigate the building and where things are.

Chairman Cavey then recognized Deputy Assistant Secretary, John Feaster, and invited him to say a few words on behalf of the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL) and the Maryland Department of Labor (MD Labor).
Deputy Assistant Secretary Feaster said good morning to all and said that he brought greetings from Secretary Wu. He thanked the Sponsors, guests for being in attendance and commended Council members and staff for all the hard work that they do to put on these meetings and advance Apprenticeship in MD. He went on to say that the State is facing unprecedented times and economic struggles and emphasized the importance of Apprenticeship as a key strategy to addressing those challenges.

Chairman Cavey stated that item number 18 on the agenda has been moved to the next Council meeting in September as the Sponsor was unable to be in attendance today.

II. MINUTES OF THE JULY 8, 2025 MARYLAND APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINING COUNCIL (MATC) MEETING.

Chairman Cavey asked the Council if members had an opportunity to review the minutes from the previous meeting and they collectively confirmed that they reviewed the minutes in full.

A motion to approve the minutes was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Shmelzer and unanimously approved at 9:09 a.m (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

III. DIRECTOR'S REPORT

Mr. MacLarion addressed Chairman Cavey, Deputy Assistant Secretary Feaster, Council members and guests and welcomed everyone to the May July MATC meeting. Mr. MacLarion went on to extend his appreciation and a special thank you to Council member Minah Woo and HCC for hosting the July MATC meeting for the second year in a row.

Mr. MacLarion also recognized Commissioner Nicole Overly and Chief Deputy Commissioner Angela Kelly-Wiecek from Virginia Works, the State Apprenticeship Agency (SAA) of Virginia (VA). He welcomed them both to the meeting and said that he hopes that they find the meeting informative.

Mr.MacLarion went on to share that MATP has not yet received the notification of the new Employee Representative, Public Representative, and Employee who will replace Norbert Klussman, Harry Preston or Dr. Chapple on the Council but said that they expect to have the new members in place by the September meeting.

Mr. MacLarion provided an update on the Apprenticeship Training Fund:

Total Fund Balance as June 30, 2025 after all obligations is $615,162.31
May contributions: $14,180.37
June contributions: $8,400.95
Fund expenditures during the period totaled $139,070.83

Mr. MacLarion said that, as of July 8, 2025, there are over 12,400 Apprentices registered in Maryland (MD) and that Maryland has maintained over 12,000 active Apprentices for the last 10 months and continues to see Apprenticeship numbers grow. He added that, during the calendar year, MATP has processed nearly 1,100 completions and that his team anticipates that they will process at least 2,000 completions for the 3rd year in a row.

Mr.MacLarion went on to provide a brief overview of the agenda and stated that there are several new items for the Council to review and consider. He said that several new programs are seeking Standards of Apprenticeship in occupations that have already been previously approved by the Council or the United States Department of Labor(USDOL). He also thanked the Council members that provided feedback on a couple of items and said that staff has made revisions to clarify information in the Standards of Apprenticeship and added that for some of those cases, there are updated documents for review within the packet.

Mr.MacLarion provided an update on MATP’s continued work with their colleagues in MD Labor’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Division of Labor and Industry. He shared that MATP has sent out the latest notification letter to Sponsors in licensed occupations regarding the licensing requirements. He said that they have received positive feedback from Sponsors with occupations that require licensing and that they have already received over 20 signed letters back. Mr.MacLarion stated that the letters are due back to MATP by August 15th, 2025 and that Apprenticeship Navigators will be following up with Sponsors in the upcoming week to inquire about and collect any missing letters.

Mr.MacLarion moved on to provide an update on the Council’s Ratio Subcommittee and said that the Subcommittee had their first meeting, a second meeting is scheduled for next week, and the Subcommittee will present a report for the Council following their third meeting.

Mac Larion updated the Council and guests on the USDOL Office of Apprenticeships recent notice of Proposed Rule on what they have called “Prohibiting Illegal Discrimination in Registered Apprenticeship Programs”. He said that USDOL issued this notice in order to rescind certain provisions within the Registered Apprenticeship system with 29 CFR 30, that governs the EEO language, selection language and other Affirmative Action language in regulation and in Standards of Apprenticeship. He said that USDOL is expected to have a webinar to share information about these changes and added that he will share the webinar information with the Council. Finally, he shared that anyone that wishes to submit public comment may do so until September 2nd, 2025.

Prior to turning the floor back to Chairman CAvey, Mr. McLarion recognized legal counsel Peggy Dall’acqua for attending the meeting and serving as the Council’s Assistant Attorney General (AAG) for an additional meeting. He shared that there is a new AAG for the MATC, Abigail Olson, who has already started in the position but was called to other duties today and wasn’t able to attend. Mr.MacLarion stated that Abigail will be in attendance for the September meeting and reiterated his thanks to Ms.Dall’acqua for stepping in.

Mr. MacLarion concluded by thanking the Chairman and the Council for the time to present and offered to take any questions.

A motion to approve the Director’s Report was made by Ms.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

Chairman Cavey thanked Mr.MacLarion for his report and proceeded to the presentation of agenda items. He welcomed Apprenticeship Navigator Aneta Lefterov to the podium to present Agenda Item 1.

IV. OLD BUSINESS

1. El Poder de Ser Mujer (Aneta Lefterov) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupation of Cook. (ITEM 1)

Ms.Lefterov wished all a good morning and said that she was joined by Ms.Sagrario Ortiz, founder of El Poder de Ser Mujer to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of cook. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to answer any questions from the Council.

Mr.Shmelzer noted that the education level for this Apprenticeship is 8th grade and he asked if the participants are given math and/or reading assessments.
Ms.Lefterov confirmed that math and reading assessments are given to applicants.

Mr.Hadfield asked what the program’s ratio of in-person vs. online training is for their Related Instruction.
The Sponsor explained that there will be in-person classes for 3 months, 1 day a week.

Ms.Woo asked if the Sponsor is using an existing curriculum for their Related Instruction.
The Sponsor said that the curriculum that they use for the Related Instruction was developed in-house and has been successful over the past 2 years. She went on to add that the curriculum includes 7 different certifications and has been approved by the National Restaurant Association.

Mr.Wilford asked for confirmation that the initial reading and math tests have the ability to discern if an applicant is at or above an 8th grade level of education.
The Sponsor confirmed.

Mr.Wilford asked how many restaurants are currently participating in the program.
Ms.Lefterov said that there are 7 restaurants participating in their pre-Apprenticeship program and 2 signed on for the Apprenticeship program.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Ms.Woo, seconded by Ms.Durant, and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

2. Constellation Energy Generation, LLC (Angela Harkness) - Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupations of Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Electrical Maintenance Technician, and Instrumentation and Controls Maintenance Technician. (ITEM 2)

Ms.Stone said that she was joined by Ms.Stephanie Strianse from Inclusive Clean Energy for Those Underserved to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupations of Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Electrical Maintenance Technician, and Instrumentation and Controls Maintenance Technician. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupations and offered to answer any questions from the Council.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Ms.Durant, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

V. NEW BUSINESS

A. NEW PROGRAMS:

3. Affinity Community Development, Inc. (Aneta Lefterov) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupations of Electrician, Plumber, and HVAC Technician. (ITEM 3)

Ms. Lefterov said that she was joined by Mr.Mateen Abdullah from Affinity Community Development, Inc. to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupations of Electrician, Plumber, and HVAC Technician. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupations and offered to answer any questions from the Council.

Mr.Shmelzer asked how many Journeyworkers the Sponsor has.
Ms.Lefterov said that the Sponsor currently has 2 Journeyworkers for each occupation but is in the process of hiring more. She also ensured that the program will adhere to the required 1:1 ratio.

Mr.Shmelzer pointed out that the minimum education level is 10th grade and expressed his concern that some students may struggle with content if they are at a 10th grade level of education. He asked the Sponsor what they are going to do to ensure the success of their Apprentices.
Ms.Lefterov said that the Sponsor actually prefers a highschool diploma or GED as the minimum education level, however the School-to-Apprenticeship (STA) provision requires the language to state that “The student must complete the 10th grade to participate in the STA program in the 11th or 12th grade”.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Ms.Durant, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

4. B & B Precision Wire Edm, Inc. (Amy Belt) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Machinist. (ITEM 4)

Ms.Belt said that she was joined by Ms.Sharon Miller from B & B Precision Wire Edm, Inc. to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Machinist. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to answer any questions from the Council.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Shmelzer and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

5. Big Red Services, LLC (Jackie Trieu) – Request for a new program registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupation of Electrician. (ITEM 5)

Ms. Trieu stated that she was joined by Ms.Tammy Leeder from Big Red Services, LLC to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of Electrician. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to field any questions from the Council.

Ms.Durant noted that Chesapeake College is listed as a partner for the Related Instruction but so is an address in Texas. She asked for clarification as to what institutions will be providing Related Instruction.
The Sponsor clarified that Chesapeake College is the only educational institution that they have partnered with for this program and the Navigator said that they would rectify the error.

Mr.Shmelzer asked if MATP staff is sure that Chesapeake College is offering all of the pre-requisite courses sequentially.
The Sponsor expressed confidence that the classes offered by the College are aligned with the Apprenticeship program’s timeline. She said in the case that issues arise they have a back-up plan to work with Polytechnic Institute.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

6. C.L. Russell Group Workforce Solutions (Karen Parker) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship for a new program for the occupation of Instructional Coordinator. (ITEM 6)

Ms. Parker stated that she was joined by Ms.Connie Russell from C.L. Russell Group Workforce Solutions to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Instructional Coordinator. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Ms.Parker added that the Sponsor has 7 instructors.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Ms.Woo, seconded by Ms.Cornish and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

7. FER-PAL Construction USA, LLC (Gina Best) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupation of Construction Craft Laborer. (ITEM 7)

Ms. Best stated that she was joined by Ms.Chelsey Stamegna from FER-PAL Construction USA, LLC to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of Construction Craft Laborer. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to field any questions from the Council.

Mr.Hadfield asked who the curriculum provider is.
Ms.Best said it is Penn and Foster.

Ms.Woo asked if 100% of the Related Instruction is online.
Ms.Best said that it is both online and in-person and the mentors are involved in the final assessment.

Mr.Shmelzer asked if the Sponsor is planning on building an office in Maryland.
Ms.Best said that they are staying here long-term in Upper Marlboro, MD.

Mr.Wilford asked if the Apprentice will receive their electrical license.
Ms.Best confirmed that since they are doing electrical work they will receive their electrical license.

8. Quantum 5D Consulting, LLC (Sheila Jackson) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupation of Pharmacy Technician. (ITEM 8)

Ms. Jackson stated that she was joined by Dr.Adetoro Oriaifo from Quantum 5D Consulting, LLC to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of Pharmacy Technician. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to field any questions from the Council.

Ms.Woo asked if the weekly check-ins will be in-person.
The checks will be both in-person and virtual.

Ms.Woo asked if the Related Instruction curriculum was developed in-house or if they are using a provider. She also asked if the Apprentices will sit for an exam at the end of the program.
The Sponsor said they will be using curriculum developed by the Pharmacist’s Letter and that students will not sit for an exam at the end of the Apprenticeship.

Ms.Durant noted that under the “Qualifications for Apprenticeship” there are items listed such as “demonstrating ethical conduct” and she asked how that would be measured.
The Sponsor clarified that the mentor will be determining if conduct is acceptable after they are accepted into the program. She also said that there is a background check prior to acceptance into the program.
Ms.Jackson said that she would strike the bullet points listed under the “Qualifications for Apprenticeship” and replace them with a background check.

A motion to approve this new program with the suggested revisions was made by Ms.Woo, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

9. Stella May (Amy Belt) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for a new program for the occupation of Heavy Equipment Operator. (ITEM 9)

Ms.Belt stated that she was joined by Ms.Tracy Murray and Mr.John Ferroro from Stella May to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of Heavy Equipment Operator. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Mr.Shmelzer asked if the program includes any OSHA 30 or OSHA 10.
The Sponsor confirmed that Apprentices will take an OSHA 30 course during year 1 of the Apprenticeship program.

10. Tiki's Playhouse (Sheila Jackson) – Request for registration of Standards of Apprenticeship for a new program for the occupation of Operations Manager. (ITEM 10)

Ms.Jackson stated that she was joined by Mr.Kelvin Abrams from Tiki’s Playhouse to request the registration of Standards of Apprenticeship and Affirmative Action Plan for the occupation of Operations Manager. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Ms.Durant pointed out a typo under the Apprentices wage schedule. She said that the packet says that the first 1,000 hours are 80% and the second 1,000 hours are 85%, however, it should say 2,000 hours for both as it's a 4,000 hr Apprenticeship program.

A motion to approve this new program was made by Ms.Durant, seconded by Ms.Cornish and approved. Ms.Woo abstained (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

B. PROGRAMS REVISIONS:

11. Asian American Center Of Frederick (Jennifer White) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add a new Related Instruction provider and to add a new occupation of Clinical Medical Assistant. (ITEM 11)

Ms.White requested a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship on behalf of the Asian American Center of Frederick to add a new Related Instruction provider and add the new occupation of Clinical Medical Assistant. She provided some additional background information on the provider and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards and the addition of a new Related Instruction provider was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Ms.Woo and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

12. Baltimore City Joint Apprenticeship Committee, AFSCME Local No. 44 (Marshel Pollock) – Reactivation of the inactive occupation(s) of Small Engine Mechanic and Tree Trimmer. (ITEM 12)

Ms.Pollock said that she was joined by Ms.Sharlene Trusty from the Baltimore City Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) to request the reactivation of the occupations of Small Engine Mechanic and Tree Trimmer. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupations and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Mr.Shmelzer asked why the occupations went inactive and if they will have enough funding for the program to be successful.
Ms.Pollock said that it is unclear why the occupations went inactive as Ms.Sharlene Trusty was not currently employed with Baltimore JAC when it occurred. Ms.Trusty did, however, assure the Council that they have sufficient funds to reactivate the occupations.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards and the addition of a new Related Instruction provider was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

13. Calvert Internal Medicine Group (Laura Wright) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. (ITEM 13)

Ms.Wright requested a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Certified Clinical Medical Assistant on behalf of Calvert Internal Medicine Group. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Ms.Cornish and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

14. Capitol Sprinkler Contracting, Inc. (Sheila Jackson) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of sprinkler fitter. (ITEM 14)

Ms.Jackson said that she was joined by Ms.Joyce Guo from Capitol Sprinkler Contracting, Inc. to request a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for the occupation of Sprinkler Fitter. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Mr.Hadfield said that there is no statewide licensing for Sprinkler Fitters and asked how they will determine when an Apprentice becomes a Journeyworker.
The Sponsor said that once the Apprentices finish all of their required On-the-Job (OJT) and Related Instruction hours they become a Journeyworker.

Ms.Woo pointed out that the Apprentices start at 50% of the Journeyworkers rate which amounts to a figure that is below Maryland’s minimum wage and pointed out to the Sponsor that they cannot start the Apprentices below the minimum wage.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards and the addition of a new Related Instruction provider was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Ms.Woo and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

15. Community College Of Baltimore County (Angela Harkness) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add the occupation of Peer Recovery Specialist. (ITEM 15)

Ms.Harkness said that she was joined by Ms.Elizabeth Wojtisek, Mr.Ted McCadden, and Mr.Jay Bouis from the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) to request a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add the occupation of Peer Recovery Specialist. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

16. Howard Community College (Sheila Jackson) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add the occupation of Line Cook. (ITEM 16)

Ms.Jackson said that she was joined by Mr.Jim Rzepkowski and Ms.Michelle Dillon from Howard Community College (HCC) to request a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add the occupation of Line Cook. She provided some additional background information on the program and occupation and offered to take any questions from the Council.

Mr.Shmelzer asked if the program will be broken up into different advisory committees based on industry and occupation. Mr.Rzepkowski said that there will be separate committees.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards and the addition of a new Related Instruction provider was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and approved. Ms.Woo abstained (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

17. Road Sprinkler Fitters Local Union 669 JATC (Sheila Jackson) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for wage percentage in accordance with the updated Collective Bargaining Agreement. (ITEM 17)

Mr.MacLarion requested a revision of Standards of Apprenticeship for wage percentage in accordance with the updated Collective Bargaining Agreement on behalf of Road Sprinkler Fitters Local Union 669 JATC. She provided some additional background information on the program and requested revisions and offered to take any questions from the Council.

A motion to approve this revision of Standards of Apprenticeship was made by Mr.Hadfield, seconded by Ms.Cornish and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

18. The Alliance For Media Arts + Culture, Inc. (Aneta Lefterov) – Request for revision of Standards of Apprenticeship to add the occupations of Digital Marketing Specialist and Digital Archivist. (ITEM 18)

Item 18 was moved to the next Council meeting.

– Chairman Cavey called for a ten-minute comfort break before Item 19 was heard. –

C. PROGRAM REVIEWS (5 OR MORE APPRENTICES):

19. Beitzel Corporation (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 19)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for Beitzel Corporation. She said that during the review staff noted a deficiency in the registration of female and minority Apprentices. She also pointed out a typo in the packet and clarified that there are 11 Journeyworker Electricians and 9 Apprentices. She concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

20. CMH, Inc., (Cropp Metcalfe) (Logan Dean) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 20)

Ms.Newland presented a program review for the CMH, Inc. She said that during the review staff noted a slight deficiency in the registration of female Apprentices though she assured the Council that the Sponsor continues to make good faith outreach efforts. He concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

21. Dynamic Automotive (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 21)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for Dynamic Automotive. She said that during the review staff noted that the Sponsor was in full compliance. She concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Hadfield, seconded by Mr.Shmelzer and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

22. Eastern Elevator Service And Sales Company (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 22)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for the Eastern Elevator Service And Sales Company. She said that during the review staff noted a deficiency in registering female Apprentices but assured the Council that the Sponsor continues to make good faith outreach efforts. She concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

23. Jesco, Inc. (Logan Dean) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 23)

Mr.Dean presented a program review for Jesco, Inc. He said that during the review staff noted that there were some documentation issues that staff was able to resolve with the Sponsor and they attended the staff-recommended technical assistance webinar. Mr.Dean also said that staff noted that the Sponsor just added a 5th Apprentice which requires the Sponsor to develop an Affirmative Action Plan. He said that staff recommends another review in 2 years provided that Sponsor develops an Affirmative Action Plan within the coming months. Mr.Dean concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

Mr.Hadfield asked if there are Apprentices employed.
Mr.Dean said that the Sponsor currently has 0 Apprentices employed. He said that staff alerted them during their review that they will go inactive if they do not register Apprentices, therefore, they have plans to register a new cohort.

Ms.Durant suggested that the review should make clear that the Sponsor must develop and submit an Affirmative Action Plan by the next MATC meeting.
Mr.Dean said that it can be included in the review.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Hadfield, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

24. Kinsley Construction, Inc. (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 24)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for Kinsley Construction, Inc. She said that during the review staff noted that they currently have 8 Apprentices that were registered in 2-022 that are scheduled to complete in 2026 but have not registered any new Apprentices since then, maintaining an unregistered in-house program. She said that the Sponsor stated that their leadership wanted to go in a different direction and does not want to take on the administrative requirements of a Registered Apprenticeship program. Ms.Luby concluded by recommending approval of the review with staff recommendations.

Ms.Durant prefaced that she is not necessarily speaking just to this particular employer’s plan to deactivate their program but she recognized that there have been a few other employers that are choosing to do the same. She recommended that staff requests feedback from employers about their reasoning or rationale for deactivating their programs with the ultimate intent to lessen the burden on employers and advance Apprenticeship as a workforce strategy as a whole.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Ms.Durant, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

25. Kinsley Steel, Inc. (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 25)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for Kinsley Steel, Inc. She said that during the review staff noted that the Sponsor was unclear about the reporting and record keeping requirements of a Registered Apprenticeship program, however, they were able to demonstrate their OJT, Related Instruction, and their wage progressions. She said that staff has provided technical assistance to the Sponsor regarding the reporting and record keeping requirements. Ms.Luby said that during the review staff also identified 3 Apprentices of which Apprentice Agreements had not been filed by USDOL. She said that staff also noted a deficiency in registering females and minorities. She concluded by recommending approval with staff recommendations and another review in 1 year.

Mr.Wilford noted that the documents say that Related Instruction will be provided in-house by the Sponsor at their York, PA location. He asked how they have Apprentices from Maryland if they are based in Pennsylvania.
Ms.Luby explained that the Sponsor provides a hotel room for the Apprentices at no cost when they need to travel to York, PA.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Ms.Woo and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

26. MW Components - Baltimore (Logan Dean) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 26)

Chairman Cavey said that MW Components - Baltimore is actually listed in the wrong category. The Sponsor actually has less than 5 Apprentices, therefore, no Council action is required.

27. Seaside Plumbing, Inc. (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 27)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for Seaside Plumbing, Inc. She said that during the review staff noted full compliance. She expressed that the Sponsor is frustrated with legislation allowing plumbing Apprentice graduates to waive the licensure exam and a lack of Apprenticeship tax credits. She said that they have chosen to discontinue their Registered Apprenticeship program due to the administrative requirements and lack of funding. She did say, however, that with new funds available through the RAISE Act, a Navigator will reach out to the Sponsors and encourage them to continue their program. She concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

Mr.Wilford and Mr.Hadfield asked for further clarification as to why the Sponsor wants to transition out of Registered Apprenticeship and to an in-house model.
Ms.Luby said that the primary reason for wanting to discontinue their program was the administrative burden.

Ms.Woo asked for more clarification on the 29% pass rate.
Ms.Luby said that the Electricians pass rate is 29%, HVAC is 43%, Plumbers were 36%.
Mr.MacLarion said that the first time pass rate for those occupations could be even lower. He said that the second time pass rate is typically higher, though testing scores have been low in general.

Ms.Woo asked what construction professions have their own licenses.
Mr.MacLarion said Plumbers, Elevators, HVAC, and Electrical.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

28. Strickland Fire Protection, Inc. (Logan Dean) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 28).

Ms.Dean presented a program review for Strickland Fire Protection, Inc. He said that during the review staff noted a number of issues. First, he said, there were found to be some administrative issues with documentation. He said that MATP staff was able to provide technical assistance and resolve those issues. Mr.Dean also said that, during the review, staff noted a deficiency as their Standards of Apprenticeship are out of date and do not reflect recent programmatic changes such as implementing virtual learning as part of the program. He concluded by recommending approval of this item provided that the Sponsors updated their Standards of Apprenticeship.

Ms.Durant asked if there is a timeline or due date for the updated Standards to be completed.
Mr.Dean said that the Sponsor should have updated their Standards of Apprenticeship by the next MATC meeting (Sept. 9, 2025).

Mr.Wilford asked if Apprentices are only receiving virtual instruction for the occupation of Sprinkler Fitter.
Mr.Dean replied that there are both virtual and in-person components.

Mr.Hadfield expressed a need to differentiate between virtual and online learning as it relates to Apprenticeship programs.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Ms.Durant, seconded by Mr.Shmelzer and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

29. The Alliance For Media Arts + Culture, Inc. (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 29)

Ms.Luby presented a program review for The Alliance For Media Arts + Culture, Inc. She began by rectifying a typo in the packet, she clarified that there is one graphic design Apprentice and 0 Video Editor Apprentices. She said that during the review staff noted that the Sponsor was in full compliance and even exceeded their diversity goals. She concluded by requesting approval of this review with the recommendations of MATP staff.

A motion to approve this review with recommendations was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Ms.Cornish and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

D. PROGRAM REVIEWS (FEWER THAN 5 APPRENTICES):

30. Rush Services, Inc. (Pam Luby) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with fewer than 5 Apprentices. (ITEM 30)

Chairman Cavey said that Item 30 is a program review for Rush Services. Rush Services has fewer than 5 Apprentices currently enrolled in the program and the review was successful. Therefore, no Council Action is required for this review.

E. PROVISIONAL PROGRAM REVIEWS:

31. Constellation Home (Logan Dean) – Request for approval of program review for a registered Sponsor with 5 or more Apprentices. (ITEM 31)

Mr.Dean presented a provisional review for Constellation Home’s Apprenticeship Program. He said that during the review staff noted one deficiency in registering female Apprentices , however, staff talked with the Sponsor about outreach efforts and Mr.Dean assured the Council that they are making good faith recruitment efforts. He concluded by saying that staff recommended approval of this review with another provisional review to occur in 1 year.

A motion to approve this review was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

F. CANCELLATIONS:

Chairman Cavey said that Items 32-42 are all requests for cancellation and asked the Council to consider and vote on all of the items together.

32. American Microwave Corporation (Jennifer White) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 32)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

33. Bel-Art Products (Alicia Dennis) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 33)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

34. Beretta USA Corporation (Lynn Stone) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 34)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

35. Karl Manufacturing Company, Inc. (Angela Harkness) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 35)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

36. Multiverse US, Inc. (Angella Moon) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 36)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

37. Netzer Metalworks (Angela Harkness) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 37)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

38. New London Precision Instruments, Inc. (Jennifer White) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 38)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

39. Taylor Electric Company (Laura Wright) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 39)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

40. Trans-Tech, Inc. (Jennifer White) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 40)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

41. Washington County Water Quality (Jennifer White) – Request for voluntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship. (ITEM 41)

See Item 42 for Council vote.

42. M & S ELECTRIC, LLC ( Amy Belt) – Request for involuntary cancellation of Standards of Apprenticeship for a defunct program. (ITEM 42)

A motion to approve the requests for cancellation for Items 32-42 was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

G. OTHER BUSINESS:

43. Asian American Center of Frederick (Jennifer White) – Request for registration of Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior training. (ITEM 43)

Ms.White requested the registration of 4 Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training on behalf of the Asian American Center of Frederick (AACF). She provided some brief background information on the Apprentices and their levels of experience and offered to take any questions.

Mr.Shmelzer asked why these 4 Apprentices need to be granted credit for prior training. She said that the request is the result of clerical oversight.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Shmelzer and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

44. Constellation Energy Generation, LLC (Angela Harkness) – Request for registration of Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training. (ITEM 44)

Ms.Harkness requested the registration of 2 Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training on behalf of theConstellation Energy Generation, LLC. She addressed a question from the Council explaining that there is no license requirement as they are a utility company. She went on to provide some brief background information on the Apprentices and their levels of experience and offered to take any questions.

Mr.Shmelzer asked why these 4 Apprentices need to be granted credit for prior training. She said that the request is the result of clerical oversight.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

45. Frederick Community College (Jennifer White) – Request for registration of Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training. (ITEM 45)

Ms.White said she was joined by Ms.Carla Milan from Frederick Community College (FCC) to request the registration of 2 Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training. She explained that there has been a lot of recent turnover at FCC that has complicated processes and allowed for clerical oversights. She went on to provide some brief background information on the Apprentices and their levels of experience and offered to take any questions.

Mr.Wilford asked if the Apprentices were in a program prior to entering this program. Ms.White said that they were not in a Registered program. Mr.Wilford asked if the credit granted is coming from prior work experience alone or if they took classes as well since they were not previously enrolled in another program. Ms.White explained that the request is to grant the Apprentices 50% credit for the classes they took at FCC that count toward the Apprenticeship program.

Mr.Shmelzer expressed concern regarding Community Colleges handing programs on behalf of employers and explained that this oversight could be the result of that practice. Ms.White said that this instance is a “one-off” and that it has not happened in the past with the College.

Mr.Hafiled asked for further clarification as to where the credit is coming from. She said that Apprentices received credit from open enrollment classes at the College that are also required for the Apprenticeship program.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Ms.Woo and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

46. Harford Community College (Amy Belt) – Request for registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit granted for prior training. (ITEM 46)

Ms.Belt said that she was joined by Matt Baylis from Harford Community College to request the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit granted for prior training.. She provided some brief background information on the Apprentice and their level of experience and offered to take any questions.

Mr.Shmelzer requested confirmation and clarification that the individual works for the business, not the college, and that they were in open enrollment classes prior to enrolling in the program. He said that he sees this as an issue and continues to think of a solution to this challenge. Ms.Belt confirmed that Mr.Shmelzer's understanding of the situation was accurate.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

A guest asked what open enrollment is. Mr.Shmelzer explained that open enrollment is classes that are offered through the College where anyone can enroll. He said that Apprenticeships are typically different in that the classes, even if provided through a college, are closed in the sense that they contain only students in the Apprenticeship program.

47. Heating & Air Conditioning Contractors Of Maryland, Inc. (Angela Harkness) – Issuance of a posthumous certificate of completion. (ITEM 47)

Ms.Harkness presented a request for an issuance of a posthumous completion certificate for Heating & Air Conditioning Contractors Of Maryland, Inc..

A motion to approve the request for a posthumous completion certificate was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Wilford and approved. Mr.Smalls abstained (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

48. Independent Electrical Contractors - Chesapeake (Sheila Jackson) – Request for registration of Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior training. (ITEM 48)

Ms.Jackson requested the registration of 4 Apprentices with over 50% credit granted for prior training on behalf of Independent Electrical Contractors (I.E.C.) - Chesapeake. She provided some brief background information on the Apprentices and their levels of experience and offered to take any questions.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Wilford, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and approved. Mr.Shmelzer abstained(Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

49. International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 10 (Lynn Stone) – Request for registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit granted for prior work experience and training. (ITEM 49)

Ms.Stone requested the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit granted for prior training on behalf of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 10. She provided some brief background information on the Apprentice and their level of experience and offered to take any questions.

A motion to approve the registration of an Apprentice with over 50% credit was made by Mr.Shmelzer, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employer Representative Stephanie Anderson and Employee Representative Terreia Smalls were not in attendance).

50. WANADA Automobile Dealer Education Institute (Gina Best) – Request for registration of Apprentices as after-the-fact registrations and completions. (ITEM 50)

Ms.Best presented a request on behalf of WANADA Automobile Dealer Education Institute for the registration of 4 Apprentices as after-the-fact registrations and completions. She urged approval of this item and offered to take any questions.

Ms.Woo commented that the Sponsor should put steps in place to ensure that this does not occur again in the future. Ms.Best said that MATP will work with the Sponsor.

A motion to approve the requests for after-the-fact registrations and completions of 4 Apprentices was made by Ms.Woo, seconded by Mr.Hadfield and unanimously approved (Employee, Harry Preston, Employer Representative, Norbert Klusmann, and Public Representative, Shaunta Chapple were absent).

Chairman Cavey stated that Items 51-74 are all eligible employer requests for the Apprenticeship Maryland Program (AMP) and asked that the Council consider them together. He asked the Council members if they had any questions, concerns, or remarks concerning any of the Youth Apprenticeship Items.

GENERAL QUESTIONS REGARDING EMPLOYER AMP REQUESTS

Ms.Durant requested that staff start capturing whether a Youth Apprenticeship program includes an approved IRC. She acknowledged that MATP staff is working on implementing that practice but wanted to reiterate her request as to not lose sight of it. Mr.MacLarion said that MATP is currently working to develop a process to capture IRCs, update policies, and coordinate with MSDE so that they can start capturing this information. He said that they have included some mentions of IRCs in Youth programs, however, everything will likely be in place in September to start including that in the Youth Apprenticeship program packets.

51. Ann Cassetta MPT GTS LLC (Laura Wright) – Request for approval as an eligible Youth Apprenticeship employer in the Apprenticeship Maryland Program for the occupation of Physical Therapy Aide. [YOUTH] (ITEM 51)