Wrenches. Wisdom. Workforce.
The Department of General Services is proud to introduce the Fleet Academy — a workforce development and training center that simulates a real-world automotive shop while also functioning as a classroom. This innovative space is designed to prepare Baltimore City residents for stable, high-demand careers as mechanics, welders, CDL drivers, and more.
Whether you're a student exploring your future, a career changer, or an aspiring technician looking to sharpen your skills, Fleet Academy is your launchpad into the fleet and automotive industries.
What We’re Building
At its core, Fleet Academy is a training and workforce development center modeled after an Automotive Repair Shop. Participants will gain hands-on experience in a professional setting while receiving classroom instruction in:
- Preventive maintenance and diagnostics
- Welding and fabrication
- CDL prep and safety
- Hybrid and diesel technology
- Professionalism and workplace readiness
The space will also host high school work-study students, apprentices, and interns from our partner programs — giving them firsthand exposure to careers in the public fleet sector.
Why It Matters
Fleet’s work is largely behind the scenes — supporting the City’s essential service providers like Fire, Police, and Public Works. But our most valuable asset is our people: highly skilled, deeply experienced technicians.
Through Fleet Academy, we’re creating an opportunity to share those skills with the community — not just to build awareness, but to actively grow the next generation of fleet professionals.
Who It’s For
- High school students in automotive programs
- Recent graduates & young adults entering the workforce
- Those looking to reskill or transition into a new field
- Individuals interested in skilled trades instead of college
- Young people not in school or employment who would benefit from structure and skill-building
Partners & Community Impact
Fleet Academy expands DGS's ability to work closely with City agencies, schools, and nonprofit workforce development partners. Current collaborations include:
- Longstanding partnerships with MERVO, Forest Park, and Edmondson-Westside High Schools
- Coordination with MOED and other workforce-focused entities
- Development of curriculum aligned with public fleet needs and municipal career pathways
This center formalizes and expands DGS’s internal training efforts, ensuring we can meet staffing demands today and build a sustainable fleet workforce for the future.
Our Commitment
The DGS Fleet Academy is a long-term investment in Baltimore’s workforce and infrastructure. By training local talent, we strengthen public services, create economic mobility, and ensure that Baltimore’s future is driven by those who call it home.
Entrance Criteria
To be admitted into the Fleet Academy, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 24 years old at the time of application.
- Be a Baltimore City resident.
- Demonstrate an interest in automotive technology or mechanical trades.
- Be currently enrolled in a high school or GED program OR be a recent high school graduate.
Submit a completed application including:
- Academic records (latest report card or transcript)
- Recommendation letter (from a teacher, mentor, or employer)
- Personal statement or interest essay
Application Process
Due to high demand and limited availability, applications for the third cohort of the Fleet Academy will open this spring. The application is now closed.
Applications Open: March 1, 2026
Applications Close: March 31, 2026
Decision Letters Issued: April 27 - May 1
Classes Begin: July 7, 2026
Be sure to apply early — space is limited and spots fill quickly!
Program Schedule
- Days: Monday through Friday
- Time: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Location: 4910 Park Heights Avenue
- Duration: July 2026 - January 2027
For partnership opportunities, programming inquiries, or early interest: FleetAcademy@baltimorecity.gov