Celebrating Community Colleges during #CCMonth

In celebration of our community colleges during #CCMonth, we want to highlight one of their most important roles —  meeting the workforce needs of their home counties and states.

Community colleges connect with local employers to determine workforce needs. Then, the colleges develop training and education programs that prepare students to fill those roles.  This effort strengthens both the local community and the economy.

This April 2025 Community College Month, MACC is highlighting a Maryland community college initiative that will prepare 1000s of community college students to fill the ~25,000 empty, entry-level cybersecurity and IT positions throughout our state.

Cyber Workforce Accelerator

This initiative is the Cyber Workforce Accelerator. Maryland’s Cyber Workforce Accelerator initiative is the first in the country to use state-of-the-art cyber range technology for workforce development.

Cyber ranges are virtual environments that simulate real-world cybersecurity threats and attacks. They can be compared to flight simulators for student pilots. The immersive and experiential training cyber ranges provide is unmatched in the industry. Each community college will have its own cyber training center connected to professionally-staffed cyber ranges.

Cybersecurity and IT careers offer:
• Competitive salaries
• Job security
• Opportunities for advancement.

The Cyber Workforce Accelerator will provide hands-on experience using simulated cyber attacks. Students completing the program will earn industry-recognized certifications, and have career-ready skills to fill critical workforce gaps.

The Cyber Workforce Accelerator was created through the partnership of MACC with BCR Cyber, a Baltimore-based cybersecurity training firm.

8 Reasons to Attend Community College

  • Diverse Learning EnvironmentCommunity colleges welcome students of all ages and backgrounds creating an inclusive learning environment.
  • Time to MatureCommunity colleges provide a supportive space for students to grow socially and academically before transitioning to a four-year institution.
  • Simplified AdmissionsCommunity colleges utilize open enrollment for most programs. providing a fresh start and an accessible higher education path.
  • Career-Focused CredentialsCommunity colleges offer career certificates and associate degrees with hands-on training for in-demand jobs.
  • Academic Boost & Transfer OpportunitiesCommunity colleges offer remedial courses, GPA improvement, and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
  • Affordable TuitionCommunity colleges have significantly lower tuition and fees and local commuting options help students save money and reduce loan debt.
  • Personalized SupportCommunity college class sizes are small, professors are accessible, tutoring and career services are readily available.
  • Flexible Learning OptionsCommunity colleges offer day, evening, online, and part-time courses accommodate students balancing education with other responsibilities such as work or family.