The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life

Guidebook to Navigating the Earn-While-You-Learn Opportunity of a Lifetime

By: Cory McCray

Narrated by: Cory V. McCray

“I realized that learning a trade was more than just mastering a skill—it was about gaining control over my future.”

How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life tells the inspiring story of one man’s journey from Baltimore’s tough streets to a life of purpose, stability, and impact.

Cory McCray was on a path many young men know all too well—one shaped by struggle and limited opportunity. But when a single decision led him into an apprenticeship program, everything changed. Through hands-on training, grit, and an unshakable commitment to growth, he found a way to rewrite his future.

In this candid memoir, McCray shares the highs and lows of his journey, illustrating the transformative power of skilled labor and mentorship. Individuals will discover how his experiences as an apprentice shaped not just his career but his life, providing him with the foundation to become a Maryland State Senator dedicated to empowering his community. Alongside these personal stories, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life delves into the lasting impact apprenticeships can have, particularly for those who might be overlooked by traditional educational paths.

For anyone who believes in the power of second chances and the untapped potential within every community, How an Apprenticeship Saved My Life is a powerful reminder that sometimes the right opportunity can change everything. Dive into this transformative story and explore how one apprenticeship not only saved a life but sparked a movement.

©2025 Cory V. McCray (P)2025 Cory V. McCray

Memoir/ Guidebook

This is a valuable listen for parents, guidance counselors and young people who are seeking an alternate route to college or unskilled labor. McCray has an inspiring story of beating the odds and creating a meaningful and successful life. In and out of the juvenile justice system during his teen years, his mother pushed him to get an apprenticeship to learn a trade. It’s not an exaggeration to say this saved his life and he is sharing his story and practical advice so that others can have a chance for success.