Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Acting Director Matthew Garbark has announced that recruitment is now underway for the 2021 Class of YH₂O Career Mentoring Program participants.  Applications will be accepted January 25 through February 26, 2021.  Applicants’ interviews will be held March 8 and 9, the Program officially begins on March 15.  To date, 96 youthful Baltimoreans have completed the Program and gone on to work in entry-level jobs in DPW and other water industry entities.

YH₂O is a public-private job partnership, spearheaded by the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) and the Chesapeake Water Environment Association (CWEA). 

Launched in 2015, YH₂O provides on-the-job-training with support from water industry veterans, who also serve as career mentors and coaches for participants.  The three-phased, six-month program provides career exploration, job shadowing, and tours to help familiarize workers with the water industry.  Participants also receive job readiness training and a summer job through YouthWorks, which enhances their work skills and training.  Past YH₂O graduates have attained such DPW positions as Laborers, Community Aides, Operations Technician Apprentices, and Customer Care Analysts.  The Program has expanded to include careers in other areas within the Department of Public Works including solid waste, and the internet technology sections.

The YH₂O Career Mentoring Program is open to Baltimore City residents between the ages of 18 and 24 who have a high school diploma or GED, are unemployed or underemployed, and not currently engaged in post-secondary education or job training. A driver’s license is preferred, but not required.  There is no cost involved for participants.

Applications are available by calling Anthony L. Greene of MOED at 410-396-6722; or by downloading it from the MOED or the DPW website.  Applications can be submitted online via the MOED website or can be delivered to MOED, 101 West 24^th Street by February 26, 2021.