THE ROAD TO JOURNEYMAN: APPRENTICE EDITION 2- CLASS OF 2020
Tyrique Johnson graduated from Northwest High School in Germantown, MD and from Associated Builders and Contractors of Metro Washington's HVAC
apprenticeship program. He was also an active participant in the Thomas Edison School of Technology program. In 2018, he won 1st place in the post secondary category for the "I Built This" video contest. Watch his submission here.

To learn more on how and why you should become an apprentice. Check out the Maryland Apprenticeship 2.0 Brochure.
How do you think the industry will change moving forward?
By getting creative with online learning and making it more interesting. Bringing the hands-on experience online through virtual reality.

Why construction?
I have a great passion for handy work.

Do you feel like you have a head start in your career/life?
Yes, while my peers are paying off student loans, I am building up my savings!



Darius Smith graduated from Suitland High School in Forestville, MD and
the Association of Air Conditioning Professionals (ACCP) program. Student's that complete the four-year apprenticeship program receive:

  • credit towards an Associate Degree from Montgomery College;
  • the opportunity to receive a Maryland Journeyperson's License without having to sit for the exam;
  • a career path that is transferable and high in demand; and
  • pride in themselves.

Commonly asked questions about the program are answered here.
What were your favorite courses in the Apprenticeship Program?
Electrical and duct and air movement.

Favorite tools to work with?
Bandsaw and impact drill.

How important was it for you to have a mentor?
I had several mentors over the years. They pointed out mistakes I made, showed me the right way to do it, and let me correct the work.

Where do you plan on being in the next 5 years?
I want to become a foreman and run my own jobs.

Mayco Avelar graduated from Park View High School in Sterling, VA and
Associated Builders and Contractors Virginia Chapter Plumbing Apprenticeship program . Throughout the program he installed pipes and fixtures, studied blueprints, followed state/local building codes, determined the amount of material and type of equipment needed to perform a job, inspected and tested installed pipe systems and pipelines, repaired systems that were not working and replaced worn parts.

Explore more trades by visiting www.constructyourfuture.com.


Did you have a mentor?
I have been working with my mentor, Ted Wynes for two years. The way he explained everything made my job easier. I've gained so much experience with his guidance.

What was your favorite course in the program and tool to work with?
Blueprints. It covered some of the questions I had about the field. The propress gun helped make my job easier. It's a really helpful tool.

How did you get involved with Shapiro & Duncan?
I was working for a General Contractor at the time and I met some Shapiro & Duncan team members. I asked how I could sign on to become a plumber.