Maryland § 11-701

§ 11-701.

    (a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

    (b)    “Credential” means a recognized:

        (1)    educational diploma;

        (2)    certificate or degree;

        (3)    occupational license;

        (4)    apprenticeship certificate;

        (5)    industry recognized certification; or

        (6)    award for skills attainment and completion, issued by an approved training provider in the State or third–party credential provider.

    (c)    “High–demand occupation” means an occupation that:

        (1)    has a significant presence within target industries;

        (2)    is in demand by employers; and

        (3)    pays or leads to payment of a family sustaining wage.

    (d)    “Identifiable skill” means the attainment of proficiency in a specific work–related skill that is likely to lead to future job advancement and improvement in an individual’s earning potential.

    (e)    (1)    “Job readiness training” means training for the purpose of assisting and supporting jobseekers in overcoming individual barriers to employment and developing the skills necessary to maintain employment and to qualify for skills training opportunities.

        (2)    “Job readiness training” includes:

            (i)    occupational skills development;

            (ii)    GED preparation;

            (iii)    literacy advancement;

            (iv)    financial stability services, including financial coaching;

            (v)    credit counseling;

            (vi)    transportation; and

            (vii)    child care.

    (f)    “Local board” means a local workforce development board established to administer services in a workforce development area established under Subtitle 5 of this title.

    (g)    “Maryland EARN Program” means the Maryland Employment Advancement Right Now Program created under this subtitle.

    (h)    “Strategic industry partnership” means a collaboration that brings together a regional group that may include employers, nonprofits, institutions of higher education, community colleges, local boards, local governments, or other relevant partners to:

        (1)    identify common workforce needs for high–demand occupations within a target industry; and

        (2)    develop and implement industry strategies to meet the common workforce needs and shortages based on regional needs.

    (i)    “Target industry” means a group of employers closely linked by a common product or service, workforce skills, similar technologies, supply chains, or other economic ties.