MCPS and Future Link Launch Partnership to Bridge Education and World of Work

MCPS has launched a partnership with Future Link, Inc., a leading nonprofit organization that provides low-income, first-generation-to-college young adults with the tools, skills and resources to achieve economic self-sufficiency and success in the workforce.

The collaboration works to bridge the gap between education and career readiness, ensuring that Future Link students—92% of whom are MCPS graduates—receive comprehensive support and opportunities to thrive in their academic and professional journeys. The partnership will provide career exploration programs, mentorship and coaching, and workforce readiness training. Future Link’s mentors and career coaches will offer individualized guidance to help students set goals, develop essential skills and navigate the challenges of transitioning from post-secondary education to the workforce.

In turn, MCPS will provide internship opportunities in schools, offices and departments aligned with the student’s career goals and aspirations. The hands-on experiences will allow interns to apply their knowledge and gain real-world exposure, enhancing future opportunities to join the MCPS workforce.

“This partnership aligns completely with our district’s Grow Your Own initiatives by creating well-rounded, capable and ambitious individuals ready to excel in the MCPS workforce,” said April Key, chief of the MCPS Office of Human Resources and Development.

“Working together gives Future Link students enhanced workforce training opportunities in many disciplines that further cultivate their interests, skills and professional destinations,” said Future Link executive director and co-founder Mindi Jacobson. “MCPS is one of the largest employers in the county, which gives our young adults exposure to the local employment landscape, critical knowledge and a sense of pride in learning from their alma maters. This powerful collaboration will further both organizations’ missions and yield great talent for the future workforce.”

To learn more, visit Future Link’s website or email Sydney Pinkard, coordinator, Future Employee Initiatives. Featured photo courtesy of @futurelinkmd on X.

Courtesy of MCPS