At Donaldson, opening doors has always meant more than providing quality apartment homes. It also means creating opportunities, investing in people, and helping the next generation of professionals discover where their talents and skills can take them.
This year, Donaldson is proud to celebrate three graduates of the MCPS Future Ready Apprenticeship Program: Jessica Nguyen of Paint Branch High School, William Duran of John F. Kennedy High School, and Kenny Espinal of Sherwood High School. Through Donaldson’s partnership with Montgomery County Public Schools’ Work-Based Learning program, these students gained meaningful, real-world experience in the multifamily housing industry while building skills that can support their futures beyond graduation.
William and Kenny completed their apprenticeships at Vista White Oak, while Jessica completed her apprenticeship at Country Place Apartments. Each student had the opportunity to learn from experienced Donaldson team members, gain exposure to daily property operations, and better understand the professionalism, communication, and teamwork required in the apartment management industry.
The students were recognized during the MCPS Apprenticeship Commencement Ceremony, held on April 23, 2026, at Quince Orchard High School, as part of the Class of 2026 celebration. The ceremony honored students who completed apprenticeship and internship experiences through MCPS’ Work-Based Learning program.
For Donaldson, the Youth Apprenticeship Program has become much more than a student work experience. It is an opportunity to introduce young talent to the multifamily property management industry, provide hands-on training, and help students gain confidence, professionalism, and practical career skills in leasing, customer service, property operations, and apartment maintenance.
Jessica Nguyen’s experience at Country Place Apartments gave her a firsthand look at the leasing side of property management. She worked alongside the property’s site team, learning about application processing, move-ins, resident communication, filing, property tours, notices, and the many behind-the-scenes responsibilities that keep an apartment community running smoothly.
“My youth apprenticeship with The Donaldson Group at Country Place Apartments was an incredible opportunity,” Jessica shared. She said the experience helped her better understand leasing, improve her organizational skills, and explore whether property management could be part of her future career path. Just as importantly, she said the team made the experience memorable, welcoming, and enjoyable. “This is an experience I will remember forever with so much love… I am extremely grateful for this opportunity.”
At Vista White Oak, William Duran also made a lasting impression on his team. Property Manager LaTamara Pierce shared how proud she was of William’s growth, dedication, and confidence throughout the program. Even on a day when he had finals, William took the time to send a video reflecting on his experience with Donaldson and the Youth Apprenticeship Program. His team described him as dependable, positive, and eager to learn, which is the kind of apprentice who quickly becomes part of the community.
Kenny Espinal also gained valuable hands-on experience at Vista White Oak, where he was introduced to the maintenance side of property management and the day-to-day work that supports residents and keeps the community safe and well-maintained. LaTamara said that Kenny brought a quiet strength and strong attention to detail to his apprenticeship at Vista White Oak. 
Together, Jessica, William, and Kenny represent the purpose of the Youth Apprenticeship Program: giving students meaningful exposure to the workplace while helping them explore real career paths. For Donaldson’s teams, the experience has been just as meaningful. Managers and team members have had the opportunity to mentor students, teach practical skills, and watch young professionals grow in confidence over the course of the program.
“One of the most rewarding parts of the Youth Apprenticeship Program has been seeing the lasting impact it has had not only on the students, but on our teams as well,” said Jeanette Stahli, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at The Donaldson Group. “What began as an opportunity to introduce young professionals to the industry has grown into meaningful careers and great success stories.”
Through the program, Donaldson has successfully hired apprentices in both leasing and maintenance roles, allowing students to continue building their careers with the company after graduation. For Jeanette and the Donaldson team, that is one of the clearest signs of the program’s success.
“Programs like this are a reminder that investing in young talent truly makes a difference,” Jeanette said. “We are proud to help mentor and support the next generation of professionals.”
Shawn Krasa, Supervisor of Work-Based Learning for MCPS, said, “The MCPS Work-Based Learning Unit is a proud partner of The Donaldson Group.” “The Donaldson Group Youth Apprenticeships in Leasing Agent and Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician have helped MCPS future talent connect with employer labor needs and has led to post-secondary career advancement through full-time employment.”
As Donaldson celebrates William, Kenny, and Jessica, the company also celebrates the teams who welcomed them, trained them, encouraged them, and helped them see what is possible. These students brought energy, curiosity, and commitment to their communities, and their success is a reminder of the powerful role mentorship can play in shaping a young person’s future.
Donaldson is proud to partner with MCPS in opening doors for students, strengthening the future workforce, and creating opportunities that can grow into lasting careers.
Click to hear what this experience has meant for William!
