Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) is excited to announce the start of its new MontcoWorks Apprenticeship Program for Information Technology (MAP IT @ Montco) for the upcoming spring 2024 semester.

MCCC developed the 18-month apprenticeship program to address the unique needs of both students and businesses in Montgomery County and the surrounding region.

“We see this as a win-win situation that will help to meet the high-tech labor needs of our businesses while simultaneously guiding our apprentices to good, family-sustaining wage jobs,” said Kyle Longacre, MCCC Dean of Workforce and Economic Development.

MAP IT @ Montco received expedited approval at the November 2023 Pennsylvania Apprenticeship and Training Council meeting, a notable achievement.

“The Council lauded the MCCC application as a model structure for apprenticeship programs throughout Pennsylvania,” said Larry Byron, MCCC's Director of Workforce Development for IT. “I attribute this success to the College's longstanding dedication to IT education and the meticulous design of the program.”

MCCC has served as a Cisco Networking Academy Support Center and Instructor Training Center for more than two decades. In 2023, MCCC earned the national “Be the Bridge Award” from Cisco for its work in incorporating Cisco Networking Academy courses into an associate degree program as part of the MAP IT @Montco.

Adhering to national standards, MAP IT @ Montco, in collaboration with participating businesses and organizations, will provide students with a comprehensive balance of pre-field technical instruction and practical work experience. This comprehensive approach includes essential soft skills crucial for effective communication and customer interaction.

Established as an earn-while-you-learn model, the program allows apprentices to earn compensation from businesses, which also cover tuition expenses. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, students will attain both industry credentials and a journey worker certificate. The program offers companies the opportunity to discover and develop IT talent, strengthening their workforce pipeline.

A registered apprenticeship program is a proven method for recruiting, training, and retaining a stronger and more diverse workforce. According to U.S. Department of Labor,  97 percent of companies with programs recommend them as a talent solution and report an average $1.44 return on investment for every $1 invested. In addition to earning a nationally recognized portable credential, apprentice program completers earn on average over $300,000 more than their non-apprentice peers during their careers.

MCCC is actively looking for apprentices and business partners who are interested in participating in the spring 2024 semester. Currently, MCCC is collaborating with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit-Office of Technology Services of Norristown and Open Tier Systems of Blue Bell.

MAP IT @ Montco is crafted with a focus on long-term impact, providing pathways to gainful employment with livable wages.

“Our role as a regional Cisco Networking Academy Support Center ensures that our program is the most updated, globally relevant, and accessible curriculum, empowering students from all backgrounds to build a future in IT,” said Byron.

Eventually, MAP IT @ Montco will serve as the foundation for future IT Networking and Cybersecurity apprenticeships.