I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Cory McCray shares the untapped potential that can be found when taking on apprenticeships in the book “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life.”

The Synopsis

“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.

The Review

The first thing that stood out to me was how genuine and honest the author was in expressing the events of his life that led him to the path he found himself on. The way the author delved into the hardships and struggles of his youth, and both the impact on his community and the lack of available resources, and the social pressures many young men in his community were presented with, could be felt in the author’s writing with an emotional depth that readers could feel.

The balance of nonfiction narrative as the author expands on his life and journey, with the lessons and education he imparts to young readers, is astounding. The straightforward candor of the author’s voice in the writing style was superb and drove the lessons forward with ease. The idea and inspiration this book inspires in young people to embrace change and the unknown and to see for themselves the future they deserve will keep readers inspired and invested as the book progresses.

The Verdict

Insightful, compelling, and engaging, author Cory McCray’s “The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life” is a must-read nonfiction book. The author did a great job of helping young people through the process of mentorship and becoming apprentices in trades, from working with difficult people to the interview process and so much more, and this is one of those books readers can return to time and time again for guidance and inspiration. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Cory McCray is a journeyman electrician, father of four, and public servant who proudly represents East and Northeast Baltimore in the Maryland State Senate. As the only member of the Maryland General Assembly to have completed a registered apprenticeship, he brings an unwavering commitment to expanding access, uplifting working families, and removing barriers to opportunity.

Raised in Baltimore City, Cory’s life was transformed through an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 24. That experience not only gave him a career, but a calling—and led him to invest in real estate as a tool for stabilizing neighborhoods, win elected office, and pass over 100 pieces of legislation aimed at equity and economic mobility.

His debut book, The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life, is a blueprint for those navigating the “earn-while-you-learn” path and a call to action for educators, policymakers, and mentors to see the potential in every young person.

When he’s not in Annapolis or working in the community, you can find Cory cheering on his daughters at track meets / tennis matches or walking his sons into basketball practice—deeply grounded in family, faith, and the future of Baltimore.

• Website: https://www.apprenticeshipcheatcode.com
• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-apprenticeship-that-saved-my-life-cory-mccray/1147015788
• The Ivy Bookshop (signed): https://www.theivybookshop.com/book/?ean=9781636986890