The Apprenticeship that Saved My Life
Guidebook to Navigating the Earn-While-You-Learn Opportunity of a Lifetime
by Cory McCray
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Pub Date Sep 30 2025 | Archive Date Feb 28 2026
Cory McCray | Morgan James Publishing
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Description
“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.
A Note From the Publisher
Early editorial praise: Kirkus, BookLife Reviews (published in Publishers Weekly), Midwest Book Review, BlueInk.
Endorsements: Kweisi Mfume; AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.
Includes photos and end-of-chapter checklists. If you review, please cross-post during pub week (Sept 30–Oct 7) to Goodreads/B&N/retailer sites. Media/educator kit or interview/Q&A available: cory@apprenticeshipcheatcode.com
Advance Praise
“A candid, practical, and often inspiring guidebook.” — Kirkus Reviews
“A much-needed manual for changing lives—clear, step-by-step guidance paired with a powerful personal transformation.” — BookLife Reviews, published in Publishers Weekly
“Candid, informative, and inspiring… an inherently fascinating read from cover to cover.” — Midwest Book Review
“Targeted, clearheaded direction… young people seeking a stable, achievable future will appreciate this message.” — BlueInk Review
“Illuminates a path for young people in every ZIP code—through hard work, a skilled apprenticeship, and a union card.” — Elizabeth H. Shuler, president, AFL-CIO
“A guidebook and a guidepost… proof that it’s not how you start that counts—it’s how you finish.” — Kweisi Mfume, author of No Free Ride
“A must-read for bridging education and economic mobility.” — Cassie Motz, executive director, CollegeBound Foundation
Marketing Plan
Trade & Editorial: Confirmed reviews from Kirkus Reviews, BookLife Reviews (published in Publishers Weekly), Midwest Book Review, and BlueInk Review; pulling money-quotes into all digital assets.
Endorsements: Blurbs from Elizabeth H. Shuler (AFL-CIO), Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Michael Tubbs, Tom Perez, Angela Alsobrooks—featured on product pages, socials, and event slide decks.
Launch Events: Enoch Pratt Free Library (9/29); additional Baltimore/DC-area events in coordination with indie bookstores and libraries (e.g., Coppin State, MCPL, AFLCIO).
Bulk & Indie Partnerships: Ivy Bookshop handling bulk/placement & signed stock (contact: hannah@theivybookshop.com ). Outreach to regional indies and library systems for placements and displays.
Media & Podcasts: Interviews live/published with Burn the Talking Points and Alpha Intuition; ongoing pitches to regional/national outlets and trade press tied to workforce/education beats.
Email & Social: Pre-pub email series (8 touches) to readers/educators/workforce partners; weekly social campaign with short video clips, quote cards, and behind-the-scenes content across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn.
Schools & Workforce Orgs: Direct outreach to CTE programs, guidance counselors, apprenticeship coordinators, unions, and youth nonprofits; offering discussion guides and author talks.
Targeted Ads: Modest, geo-targeted paid social (MD/DC/VA + key metros) aimed at educators, parents, and early-career readers; LinkedIn outreach for institutional/bulk orders.
Assets: High-res cover, author photo, B-roll/speaking clips, discussion guide, and event one-sheet ready for partners.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9781636986890 |
| PRICE | $14.95 (USD) |
| PAGES | 180 |
