First Cohort of Roads to Careers Grant Recipients Earn Workforce Training Certificates

Six students completed a rigorous workforce training program at the College of Southern Maryland (CSM), earning certificates that mark a step towards new opportunities and a brighter future.

The students were the first to participate in the Integrated Education and Training (IET) program, for English as a Second Language and GED students in CSM’s Adult Education programs. The IET program blends academic instruction with job specific training and offering the potential for six certificates, including OSHA 10-Hour Construction, American Traffic Safety Services Association Flagger, National Safety Council First Aid, CPR, AED, and Construction Trades Core Skills.

Otgontuya Sampilnorov, who earned all available certificates, said she is excited and proud to have completed the program.

“I’ve wanted to work with tools and carpentry since I was little, so I’m happy I did it,” Sampilnorov said. “I was a little scared at first but we did a lot of work in the labs and with the machines, I’m not scared anymore. I’m very grateful for everyone at CSM who made sure we had everything we needed.”

Sampilnorov said she’s excited to start gaining more experience and work on household projects.

The IET program started in October and met each Saturday for 16 weeks. Launched in partnership with the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, the program is funded through the Road to Careers Grant, a $24 million initiative through the Maryland Labor and Transportation Department which aims to grow the skilled workforce in the transportation construction sector.

Ellen Flowers-Fields, Vice President of Continuing Education and Workforce Development, acknowledged the hard work and determination needed for these students to complete the program and reach their goals.

“I’m proud of these students for putting in so many hours over the last six months to create new possibilities for their future,” Flowers-Fields said. “This program is not only preparing our students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, but it’s also creating real pathways into in-demand careers that strengthen our workforce.”

Program graduate Sonia Amador echoed the excitement and pride she feels for completing the courses and earning each certificate.

"It was emotional because it was such a long time, but we did it and it feels great,” Amador said. “I wanted to do this to have a better future, and these certificates will open a lot of doors for me.”

Amador said her next step is to continue gaining experience and work towards becoming an electrician.

The next IET program cohort will begin this fall.