Summary
The Restaurant Association of Maryland has launched a Restaurant Manager Apprenticeship program, providing high school graduates in the DC-area with the opportunity to receive paid, on-the-job training while learning essential management skills in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Funded through grants, this two-year program offers apprentices a starting wage of $17 per hour, with the potential to earn $25 per hour upon completion, all while allowing flexibility to accommodate their work and life commitments.
This initiative aims to create a clear pathway for young individuals entering the restaurant sector, addressing the industry's high demand for qualified management personnel. By integrating practical experience with online coursework, the program promotes a competency-based approach, ensuring that apprentices are well-equipped for their future careers in hospitality.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This program exemplifies the growing trend of earn-and-learn models in registered apprenticeships, which provide valuable hands-on experience while addressing workforce shortages in critical industries. By facilitating entry into a challenging career path without the prerequisite of formal education, it opens doors for young people and strengthens the talent pipeline for the restaurant sector.