The Maryland Department of Labor has created two new lighthouse industry programs designed to help workers and employers build skills and adapt to AI and other emerging technologies in Maryland’s lighthouse sectors, including the life sciences, information technology, aerospace and defense, and manufacturing.
Maryland Lighthouse Industries and AI Internship Program:
The Maryland Lighthouse Industries and AI Internship Program is a $1.5 million initiative to increase the number of experiential learning opportunities for students and prospective workers pursuing careers in Maryland’s lighthouse sectors. Eligible employers and partner organizations may apply for grants of up to $150,000 to support internships, including wages of up to $10,000 per intern, funded through the Talent Innovation Fund and Cyber Maryland. Awardees will be responsible for recruiting and onboarding interns, and providing them with direct experience that helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Employers of all sizes are invited to apply, whether they have one intern or several. Applications for the Maryland Lighthouse Industries and AI Internship Program are being accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
Applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted. All applications must be submitted to dlwdallighthouseinternship_labor@maryland.gov.
For additional information, please contact Brittney Hansen at brittney.hansen@maryland.gov or Eve Boyle, Ph.D. at eve.boyle@maryland.gov.
Maryland Lighthouse Industries Upskilling and Reskilling Program:
The Maryland Lighthouse Industries Upskilling and Reskilling Program is a $1 million competitive grant opportunity designed to strengthen transferable and emerging technology skills for Marylanders seeking lighthouse industry careers through training programs. The program—funded through the Talent Innovation Fund—provides support for workforce development partners, including non-profits, higher education institutions, and industry associations. Applicants may request up to $200,000 and must partner with at least three employers and ensure training programs are aligned with Maryland’s workforce needs.
Deadlines:
- Deadline to submit questions: April 10, 2026
- Proposal deadline: April 24, 2026 at 11:59 PM
All questions and proposals must be submitted to Britney Hansen at brittney.hansen@maryland.gov. Proposals received after the proposal deadline will not be considered.
The Maryland Department of Labor developed the programs in consultation with the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, the governor’s chief policy-making body for workforce development. The board gathered robust feedback from industry leaders—including lighthouse sector leaders—to inform how workers and employers can integrate AI within their organizations confidently, safely, and effectively.
