Across the region, employers continue to face a familiar challenge: finding dependable, motivated, and skilled workers ready to grow within their organizations. Apprenticeship has long been one of the most powerful solutions to this challenge—offering employers a way to build a strong talent pipeline while providing individuals with structured pathways into family-sustaining careers.
Project JumpStart (PJSI) strengthens that pipeline by preparing job seekers with the foundational skills, discipline, and industry awareness as well as life support they need to succeed on Day One of employment.
Why Apprenticeship Works
Apprenticeship remains one of the most effective workforce strategies because it blends hands-on learning with real-world employment. Employers benefit from:
- Customized skill development tailored to their needs
- Improved retention, because apprentices feel invested in
- Reduced recruitment costs, thanks to a pre-screened workforce
- Access to diverse talent, including individuals who might otherwise face barriers to entry
Statistically, employers see real, measurable returns:
- On average, registered apprenticeships deliver a $1.47 return for every $1 invested. National Apprenticeship
- In a DOL-supported study, the typical employer saw a 44.3% return on investment over five years — accounting for both productivity gains and indirect benefits like lower turnover and stronger company culture. PRWeb
- According to national data, retention rates for apprentices are around 90%, meaning apprentices tend to stay employed long after their training ends. Apprenticeship.gov
Project JumpStart: A Proven On-Ramp to Apprenticeship
For over two decades, PJSI has provided a free 15-week job readiness and pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trades. Participants receive grounding in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, financial literacy, accountability, and hands-on skills projects.
Graduates of the program consistently demonstrate:
- Workplace professionalism and reliability
- Strong foundational technical skills
- Understanding of safety practices and jobsite expectations
- Preparedness for the structure and demands of apprenticeship
Because employers know what to expect from PJSI training, many now turn to the program as a trusted pipeline for new hires ready to enter apprenticeship roles with confidence.
Why Employers Trust Project JumpStart
Employers partnering with PJSI gain access to:
- Job-ready candidates who have been coached, tested, and trained
- Support services through JumpStart Your Team, helping ensure long-term success and retention
- Barriers-removed hiring, thanks to wraparound supports and workforce coaching
- A regional network of graduates, equipped to fill both immediate openings and long-term workforce projections
These advantages help employers reduce recruitment and onboarding time, while building a more resilient, loyal workforce.
Powerful Outcomes for Job Seekers Too
- In Maryland, apprenticeship completers report a median annual salary of $82,900, nearly double what some associate-degree holders earn. MD Department of Labor
- Over a career, completing an apprenticeship can add an estimated $300,000 in lifetime earnings. Legislative Services Maryland+2MD Department of Labor
A Strong Workforce Starts with a Strong Entry Point
As apprenticeship continues to grow as a best-practice workforce strategy, programs like Project JumpStart provide employers with an essential first step. By supplying prepared, motivated candidates, PJSI helps employers build the future of their workforce — one apprentice at a time.
For employers, that means less risk, lower hiring costs, and a steady pipeline of talent ready to commit long-term.
For job seekers, it’s a powerful launchpad — paid training, real skills, and access to careers that pay.The power of PJSI and it’s job ready candidates is equal for Registered Apprenticeships as well as for organizations who offer company specific training. Check out our Great Candidates Page or contact Jordan Morris today to connect with your next great hire!