Creating Apprenticeship Pathways
Apprenticeships are career pathways that combine paid on-the-job training with structured learning. They play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment, equipping individuals with industry-relevant skills and uplifting local communities. For employers, apprenticeships are a proven solution for developing a highly skilled workforce, improving productivity, and reducing turnover.1
AstraZeneca’s apprenticeship journey began in 2019 with the launch of a four-year Mechanic Apprenticeship in Newark, Delaware, designed to upskill operators with mechanical aptitude. Apprentices work in the maintenance team, gaining practical experience and making meaningful contributions to the site, while also receiving classroom instruction at Hodgson Vo-Tech Adult Education Center. Upon completion, they earn a Journeyperson Certificate from the Delaware Department of Labor. With three apprentices graduated to date, the program continues to empower employees through learning and growth opportunities.
In 2024, AstraZeneca achieved a significant milestone by registering as a National Apprenticeship Sponsor, enabling deployment of programs across the U.S. We introduced our first early career apprenticeships, with the launch of our Maintenance Technician and Quality Control Laboratory Technician programs in December 2024.
2025 marked the launch of a groundbreaking degree-granting Laboratory Sciences apprenticeship in partnership with Montgomery College, Maryland. Apprentices in this program will work towards a fully funded Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Biotechnology. The first cohort will be welcomed in May 2025.
Celebrating Nelvin Rivera’s graduation from our Mechanic Apprenticeship in Newark, joined by Delaware Department of Labor representatives. Pictured from left to right: Christopher Kerr, Nelvin Rivera, Tim Perkins, and Jazelle Plummer (September 2024).
Fostering Lifelong Learning
Through our apprenticeship programs, we're not only building the right skills and technical knowledge but also building a sustainable talent pipeline that embodies our values and is equipped to drive our bold ambitions forward. Investing in development enables us to grow and retain our talent across our U.S. footprint. Our apprentices are paired with experienced managers and mentors who help participants uncover their strengths, explore career paths, and grow both personally and professionally. The core curriculum is designed to bring our apprentices together, creating a close-knit community that supports continuous learning.
Building a Culture of Inclusion
We are thrilled to welcome apprentices into our manufacturing sciences team, where they will learn advanced biologic manufacturing techniques and contribute to producing clinical biologic medicines. This training provides a strong foundation for their future in biopharmaceutical development, allowing them to apply their education from Montgomery College directly to their work. This initiative supports our local community by broadening opportunities for talent and shaping the educational and career paths of early talent.
Meeting the Challenges of Tomorrow
AstraZeneca was one of the first employers to take the Maryland Governor's Apprenticeship Pledge. Over the next year, AstraZeneca, led by Brian Stamper, the Rockville Facility Executive Director and General Manager, will partner with the Maryland’s Workforce Development Board to advocate for effective business practices and explore new ways to expand our programs.
As a leading employer and industry innovator, AstraZeneca is committed to developing the next generation of talent. We are actively partnering with state government, academic institutions, and industry groups to launch apprenticeship programs that build a strong, diverse talent pipeline. These programs will benefit both AstraZeneca and the life sciences sector while creating career pathways for all individuals to grow and thrive in our industry.
As we look to the future, AstraZeneca is committed to building career pathways, fostering a culture of continuous learning and inclusion, and paving the way for the next generation of innovators. Our journey is just beginning, and we are excited to see where it leads.
Reference:
1Office of Apprenticeship, Department of Labor. “Explore Apprenticeship.” Apprenticeship.gov, www.apprenticeship.gov/employers/explore-apprenticeship.