Maryland agencies seek 'preferred training partners' for light-rail projects

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) and the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation earlier this week kicked off the Preferred Training Partner program for the Red and Purple line light-rail projects in Baltimore.

The MTA's goal is to prepare and link "opportunity ready" residents of each project corridor directly to the contractors selected to design, build, operate and maintain the Red and Purple lines, administration officials said in a press release.

Key criteria for organizations to be accepted into the program include a demonstrated track record of success with education and training programs, and/or the ability to reach into economically- and socially- disadvantaged communities.

Selections will aim to serve entry-level, semi-skilled and skilled positions in both corridors, MTA officials said.

Agencies and organizations that submit qualifying and selected proposals to be a Preferred Training Partner will be given priority for transportation-related workforce development grants; have access to technical assistance and consulting services; and be provided with direct access to project contractors once selected.

"The Preferred Training Partners program is an important step in MTA's commitment to maximize the economic benefit of the Red and Purple Line projects," said MTA Administrator Robert Smith.