Howard Community College receives $60,000 matching grant to grow cybersecurity apprenticeships

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball yesterday announced a $60,000 grant to support cybersecurity workforce development programs at Howard Community College. The grant is an investment in career apprenticeship funding and matches a grant awarded by the Howard County Economic Development Authority in January.

"Howard Community College will continue to be good stewards of the community's trust in our neighbors' dreams for career mobility and financial stability," said HCC President Daria J. Willis. "This charge is only met through partnerships with our county's public and private sectors, and there are no better partners than Dr. Ball and his administration. We are truly grateful for this support of HCC's role as an anchor institution for business sustainability in central Maryland."

The announcement was made during the executive's 'State of the Business Address' made during the Business Outlook Luncheon hosted by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. The funding will grow the HCC cybersecurity apprenticeship program to serve 34 emerging professionals in IT protection and help desk careers.

Howard County Government has supported workforce development expansion through a recent $11 million commitment to building the college's skilled trades center.

The 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility will offer hands-on training in traditional and emerging industries like HVAC, plumbing, construction management, cybersecurity, and manufacturing mechatronics. The center is scheduled to open in 2026.

HCC was also recently named as a partner in the Greater Baltimore Committee's successful application to be one of 41 federally designated tech hubs. The central Maryland hub will pioneer research and development in predictive healthcare and biotechnology.

“We recognize that equipping our workforce starts early,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “This investment will match funds provided by EDA, creating an opportunity for more than 30 registered apprentices to reach their full potential through a rewarding career in cybersecurity. I look forward to our continued partnership with Dr. Willis and HCC to ensure all our students have the ability to live their purpose for the best quality of life.”