Governor Moore awarded $1.8 million to BCR Cyber and the Maryland Association of Community Colleges to strengthen Maryland’s cybersecurity talent.
Governor Wes Moore recently announced a $1.8 million investment to expand cybersecurity training at Maryland’s 16 community colleges. This funding, secured in partnership with US Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, will support the creation of cyber ranges—interactive, simulated training platforms that provide hands-on learning.
From the press release:
“Maryland’s pathway to national leadership in cybersecurity runs through our community colleges. Today marks the latest chapter in our work to make Maryland the cyber capital of the United States and connect all Marylanders with the training they need to compete for jobs of tomorrow,” said Governor Moore.
Cyber ranges provide secure, experiential learning environments where students can practice and hone critical technical skills. The initiative, part of Maryland’s new Talent Innovation Program, aims to build a robust cybersecurity workforce with a focus on diversity by including underrepresented groups.
The investment builds on previous efforts reported by MACo, the Maryland Association of Community Colleges, in partnership with BCR Cyber, received $935,680 through the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program to fund the Cybersecurity Workforce Accelerator. Partnerships with BCR Cyber and the Maryland Workforce Association will ensure training connects students directly to high-demand, good-paying jobs at the public and private levels.
“This investment solidifies Maryland community colleges as a national leader on cyber and workforce development. We’re honored to be chosen for this award and look forward to working with our partners to fill critical skills gaps in the cybersecurity industry,” said Maryland Association of Community Colleges Executive Director Brad Phillips.
This initiative further strengthens the state’s competitive edge while addressing critical workforce needs.
