Strategic Workforce Initiatives

All programs listed on this page are free to applicants who fit the following criteria:

  • A current Baltimore County resident
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Authorized to work in the United States
  • Able to commit to and adhere to the training schedule
  • Meet income guidelines

To apply, complete the Demographic and Eligibility Form and email it to stratworkforce@baltimorecountymd.gov. Please reach out to this email with any questions.

Commercial Truck Driving Training Programs

At North American Trade Schools (NATS), students gain a quality education while getting the hands-on training needed to begin a new career as a diesel mechanic, diesel technician or commercial truck driver. With the help of businesses in the training programs offered, NATS continually updates the criteria and curriculums to meet industry standards and needs, assuring that students are learning what you will use in the field.

Program Schedule

The training programs will be held at North American Trade Schools, 5760 Wabash Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215.

The Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) training program will be held on:

  • Thursday, July 7 through Thursday, September 18, 2025
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, June 13
  • Monday, September 22 through Monday, December 1, 2025
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, September 5
  • Tuesday, December 2, 2025 through Tuesday, February 23, 2026
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, November 14

The Commercial Driver's License (CDL-B) training program will be held on:

  • Friday, September 5 through Friday, September 12, 2025
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, August 8
  • Friday, October 3 through Friday, October 10, 2025
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, September 12
  • Friday, December 12 through Friday, December 19, 2025
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Friday, November 21

The Commercial Truck Driving program trains students for entry-level positions as qualified CDL-A drivers in over-the-road or local driving positions. No prior education or experience is required, but students must:

  • Meet the driver qualifications set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Entry-Level Driver Training Mandate
  • Pass the physical examination requirements established by the Department of Transportation

Additional ELIGIBILITY Requirements

  • At least 21 years of age
  • Tour school and pass an entrance evaluation
  • Have a valid full Class A driver's license (non-provisional) with no more than two points on their Motor Vehicle Report
  • Be able to pass a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration drug screen and Department of Transportation physical exam
  • Cannot be convicted of human or drug trafficking, or on parole

COMBINATION Welding Training Program

The Combination Welding program at North American Trade Schools (NATS), provides students with well-rounded training in various welding applications and techniques based on American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and American Welding Society (AWS) specifications. Upon graduation, students can earn multiple certifications in the different welding skills and methods.

Program Schedule

The training programs will be held at North American Trade Schools, 5760 Wabash Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215.

The Combination Welding training program will be held on:

  • Tuesday, September 9, 2025 through Thursday, June 18, 2026
    • Last day to submit Demographic and Eligibility Form: Tuesday, August 19

Students will train in several forms and techniques of welding, including:

  • Oxy-fuel cutting
  • Shielded metal arc welding
  • Gas tungsten arc welding
  • Gas metal arc welding
  • Flux-cored arc welding

Graduates can expect opportunities for employment in entry-level welding positions such as pipe welding, fitters, repair welders, fabricated metal products welders, burners, and construction welders.