ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today announced his $250,000 commitment in new funding towards the County’s Office of Workforce Development’s (OWD) empowering Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), that he has included in his proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Operating Budget. This paid program focuses on teaching teens and young adults valuable job readiness skills and career exploration with local businesses, nonprofits, and government partners.
Our empowering Summer Youth Employment Program is a model for other communities on how to empower, train, prepare, and upskill our young residents who are looking to join the workforce. This vital program provides participants with the opportunity to learn key skills and gain a better understanding of the different career paths they may pursue. With this invaluable funding, we are supporting the growth and hands-on experience of our future workforce.
Since its launch in 2018, Howard County’s SYEP has exponentially grown from 13 participants and six participating worksites to 300 participants and 65 worksites geared up and ready to go this summer. This new funding will allow OWD to expand the program to 300 in 2025.
The Summer Youth Employment Program is more than a summer opportunity—it’s a launchpad for our future workforce. Supporting 300 youth this year reflects not only our expanded reach, but our deepening commitment to equity, access, and opportunity for all. These experiences are critical touchpoints that help young people see what’s possible, gain real-world skills, and build confidence in who they are and what they can contribute. Our employers aren’t just offering jobs—they’re shaping lives and strengthening Howard County’s economic future, one young person at a time.
"At Medical Me, participating in the youth workforce development program has been nothing short of transformative – just for our organization, but for the young individuals we’ve had the privilege to mentor,” said Aajah Blight, Director of Operations, Medical Me MD. “We've proudly welcomed multiple youth workers back for repeat sessions, a true testament to the impact this program has had on their growth and confidence. Through our hands-on STEM/STEAM and health education programs, these students develop essential workforce skills like communication, professionalism, time management, and teamwork – all while gaining real-world experience in a supportive and enriching environment. We've watched many of them evolve from shy first-timers to poised leaders, better prepared for future careers in healthcare, education, and beyond. This program is not only building a stronger pipeline of skilled youth, but it's also reinforcing our shared commitment to investing in the future of our community."
To be eligible for the program, participants must be a Howard County resident, between the ages of 14 and 24 by July 1, 2025, and legally eligible to work in the United States. The six-week program will run this summer from July 1st to August 9th.
"Participating in SYEP has been a valuable part of my last two summers. Having the opportunity to support small businesses in my community, earn a wage, and learn skills that are applicable in the workforce has been amazing. I was able to even get a reference from my site supervisor. The connections that I’ve made through this program are invaluable and I’m very thankful for the opportunity," said Ann-Michaela Doe, 2024 Howard County Summer Youth Participant
In addition to its SYEP, OWD is taking additional steps to help Howard County youth identify and accomplish their educational and career goals. As part of Howard County’s implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, OWD has assigned a Career Counselor to every Howard County Public School System (HCPPS) high school to assist students decipher their interests and offer skills assessments and career tools to help students determine their career pathway early.
“I’m excited to join Howard County Economic Development Authority’s summer internship program as a marketing intern,” said Anya Thakrar, Business Administration/Marketing Student at Towson University. “I look forward to working on marketing campaigns and digital media initiatives, gaining hands-on experience, and contributing to the growth of a business at the Maryland Innovation Center. This opportunity allows me to support HCEDA’s broader mission of strengthening local businesses and driving economic growth in Howard County.”
Additionally, Howard County has also helped HCPSS students get into early training grounds. In FY 2024, Ball allocated $13 million towards HCPSS’s Applications and Research Laboratory (ARL) career and technical center. Ball’s FY25 budget included an additional $1 million for the renovation and expansion of the facility. ARL provides students with the opportunity to meet and work with professionals from career fields, while building their academic foundation and skill base to be college and career ready. This funding will allow more students to participate in the program.
"Being a part of the Howard County Summer Youth Employment Program last year not only helped me break personal barriers, but it also helped me successfully start my dream business," said Azaria Ross, 2024 1st Place Winner of So You Can Pitch Competition, Howard County Summer Youth Employment Program
Finally, as a national leader in workforce development, OWD’s apprenticeship programs have partnered with local businesses to train more than 1,500 apprentices. Through this program, participants have learned, grown, and thrived in their chosen fields, from hospitals and childcare centers to tech firms and hotels. In fact, five high school students started trade apprenticeships with the County this past fall. These students are learning the ropes, gaining experience, and shaping their careers in technology, plumbing, and electric.
“Creating strong career pathways for our youth is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our economy. Through the Summer Youth Employment Program, we’re giving our youth purpose, perspective, and a real-world introduction to industries that drive our local economy. We’re proud to connect our Maryland Innovation Center businesses with young talent to support hands-on learning and workforce retention. These experiences build the foundation for a more resilient and future-ready workforce in Howard County,” said Jennifer Jones, CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority.
Here's what others had to say:
- Cydnie Davis, 2nd Place Winner of So You Can Pitch, 2024 Howard County Summer Youth Employment Program - "Last year was my first time working in the summer youth program. I learned a lot about becoming an entrepreneur. My favorite part of my assignment was learning to write my business plan and present it to my group. I hope I am selected for the chance to work this summer also."
- Reon Scott, 2023 and 2024 Howard County Summer Youth Employment Program Participant - "The program was a great experience, and it helped me not only meet new people but also have an early start in a field I want to work in. It also helped me branch out and consider careers I never thought of. Overall, it was a great experience, and it helped me learn a lot."
- Q. Scott, Parent of a Howard County Summer Youth Program Participant - "Without a doubt the Summer Youth Employment Program was a blessing and Godsend. My son was able to explore careers and opportunities he never considered. It really helped him get a direction I to what he wants to pursue as a career."