Chesapeake Glazing

Apprenticeship Program

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE,

ONE GLAZIER AT A TIME

Launch your career with the Chesapeake Glazing Apprenticeship Program, a Maryland Department of Labor–approved pathway into a skilled trade, built on real projects, real mentors, and real opportunity.

  • This is a paid apprenticeship program offering in-shop and on-site training, starting at $22.00 per hour with five wage increases over the three-year program.
  • 2,000 working hours per year (40-hour work week)
  • Maryland-approved 3-year apprenticeship program
  • Graduates earn a Maryland Department of Labor Certificate of Apprenticeship Completion, recognized nationally and supportive of journeyman career pathways.
  • Successful completion of the apprenticeship offers the opportunity for a long-term career with journeyman-level wages of $30.00 per hour.
View Our Projects

Hands-On Training in Real Glazing Systems

Our apprenticeship program is built around competency-based training.

Apprentices don’t just observe; they learn, practice, and perform under the guidance of experienced glaziers and project leaders.

YOU CAN EXPECT:

  • On-the-job mentorship under the supervision of experienced AGMT certified glaziers
  • Progressive skill development with clear expectations at each stage
  • Exposure to multiple project types and glazing systems
  • Competency Test to connect practical work with the bigger picture

This is not a classroom-only program. You’ll spend your time where the work is happening, on jobsites and in the shop, learning how projects come together in the real world.

A Personal Mission: A Message from Our President

For Michael O’Neal, this apprenticeship program is more than a company initiative; it’s personal.

Mike’s journey in construction began humbly as a helper who needed reliable work and healthcare with a baby girl on the way. He didn’t yet know the glazing trade, but he knew he needed to provide for his family.

What he found was more than a job. He found a craft, a community, and a career that would shape the next chapter of his life.

Left to right: Ciro Mendez, Michael O’Neal, and Thomas Radtke. Side by side since 2011, with more than a decade of shared work, trust, and craftsmanship that continues today at Chesapeake Glazing.
Left to right: Thomas Radtke, Michael O’Neal, and Ciro Mendez. Side by side since 2001, with more than two decades of shared work, trust, and craftsmanship that continues today at Chesapeake Glazing.
More than a decade after stepping into the trade, Michael O’Neal stands alongside his growing Chesapeake Glazing team, leading with purpose and preparing to step into the role of President.
More than a decade after stepping into the trade, Michael O’Neal stands alongside his growing Chesapeake Glazing team, leading with purpose and preparing to step into the role of President.

Today, as President of Chesapeake Glazing, Mike stands as an example of how this industry can provide growth, purpose, and the chance to build a future. His story highlights what’s possible when opportunity and hard work meet in the construction trades.

“Someone once opened a door for me in this industry. This apprenticeship is our way of opening that door for the next generation” – Michael O’Neal, President, Chesapeake Glazing LLC

Is This Apprenticeship Right for You?

You don’t need prior glazing experience to apply. We’re looking for individuals who are ready to learn, work hard, and take pride in what they build.

You may be a great fit if you:

  • Enjoy working with your hands and being on your feet
  • Like solving problems and seeing projects come to life
  • Are reliable, safety-minded, and team-oriented
  • Are interested in a career path that doesn’t require a traditional four-year degree
  • Want a trade you can grow in for the long term

Whether you’re just graduating, changing careers, or looking for a more stable and rewarding path, this program is designed to help you get started.

Learn the trade. Master the Craft.

If you’d like to join our team, please fill out the form below or contact us at lmrugalski@chesglazing.com

Your Name(Required)
Your Email Address(Required)
Do you have a valid driver's license?(Required)
Do you have your own personal vehicle?(Required)