Guest feature: Maureen O'Connor and Summar Goodman managecommunications for the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation. Follow DLLR on Facebook and Twitter.

The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation has announced the return of the Maryland Business Works Program, the highly successful worker training program.

With an initial investment of $500,000 in business engagement funds, the Maryland Department of Labor is eager to partner with Maryland's businesses to support employer strategies for retention, growth and expansion.

"With the addition of 63,200 jobs, Maryland has gone from last to first in the Mid-Atlantic region and added more jobs than any other state in the country," said Governor Hogan. "Under our administration, Maryland is now a more business friendly state and programs such as Maryland Business Works, that emphasize skills training, will only help to continue to grow our private sector and Maryland's economy."

"The Maryland Business Works Program is just one of the many ways the Maryland Department of Labor is supporting local businesses and workers by creating innovative training opportunities," said Maryland Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz.

Participation in the program requires a dollar-for-dollar match by the employer, which will result in an overall investment of $1 million in training. Training funds may be used to upgrade the skills of current employees while also creating opportunities for new hires in in-demand occupations and skills.

Through this program, Maryland workers will gain transferable skills or industry-recognized certifications or credentials, leading to potential career growth and increased wages. Funds will be primarily targeted to small businesses with 100 employees or fewer, local and regional businesses providing in-demand products or services, and businesses facing potential layoffs.

For more information, interested businesses are encouraged to visit the Department's website, email the Department's Business Services Team, or contact the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at (410) 767-2173.

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