On this week’s episode of Spotlight On Maryland, we spoke with Barbara Reed-DiGia, Outreach & Operations Director from Maryland New Directions. This incredible organization has been providing no-cost employment coaching and specialized career training to people in Baltimore since 1973. Each year, Maryland New Directions works with more than 350 motivated men and women, many of whom are facing barriers to employment, and provide the guidance, resources, training, and professional credentials they need to secure a job, advance with their current employer, or establish a new career.
One of their specialized programs is Maritime, Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics. (MTDL for short) This program focuses on preparing candidates for work in the MTDL industry – either at the Port of Baltimore or another industry site. Participants receive 60 hours of job readiness training, including help with computer skills, interviewing skills, resume writing, etc., and 30 hours of industry-specific field training during the three-week program. They then have opportunities to earn industry-specific certifications (forklift, OSHA 10, Certified Customs Specialist) – all for free. There is also a program that can help people get the CDL in order to drive trucks and buses; there are so many opportunities available for those who want to put in the work!
Maryland New Directions is turning 50 this year and is celebrating with a Golden Anniversary Gala on May 11 at South East Club Level, M&T Bank Stadium. The event will bring together past and present successful graduates, staff, partners, and supporters to honor MND’s service to the community and the generations of Baltimoreans who have been positively impacted by the organization. This year's keynote speaker is D. Watkins, New York Times bestselling and award-winning author and Editor-at-Large for Salon. To learn more about Maryland New Directions, listen to the entire interview below!