Howard community college (HCC) plans to address the region's cybersecurity workforce needs by expanding its cybersecurity registered apprenticeship program, which partners with at & T to provide…

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $327,577 Cooperative Agreement to Howard Community College (HCC) under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach program (CFDA 11.620). The funding will enable HCC to expand its successful Cybersecurity Registered Apprenticeship Program, which partners with AT&T to provide apprentices with top-secret security clearances and promote workforce diversity. Additionally, HCC will establish a Cyber Clinic to give students hands-on cybersecurity experience while supporting local non-profits and small businesses. Key objectives include engaging more employers, especially small and medium-sized companies, in the apprenticeship program, and providing practical training and mentorship to cybersecurity students. The initiative also aims to enhance diversity and support transitioning military students and veterans. Sub-awards of $30,000 to NPower and $10,000 to FMA will support these activities.

Activities

Central maryland cyber regional alliance project plans to broaden its successful cybersecurity registered apprenticeship program, initially developed with at & T, to include more employers, especially small and medium-sized companies. Additionally, HCC aims to set up a cyber clinic that will offer cybersecurity students practical experience by helping local non-profits and small businesses with their cybersecurity needs.

Expected outcomes

Howard community college (HCC) plans to engage businesses through educational and recruitment efforts, with a focus on increasing the number of registered apprenticeship employers. The initiative aims to recruit apprentices for the cybersecurity apprenticeship program, with many being hired by approved employers. A cyber clinic will be established on campus, providing cybersecurity consulting to local nonprofits and businesses, offering paid internships, and involving a significant number of students. The program also seeks to enhance diversity and support transitioning military students and veterans, with mentorship from cybersecurity professionals.

Intended beneficiaries

The outcomes will benefit local businesses and nonprofits by providing them with cybersecurity consulting and access to a skilled workforce. Apprentices, students, and diverse groups will gain valuable work experience, mentorship, and job opportunities, while employers will have access to a trained talent pool.

Subrecipient activities

Subawards to npower ($30,000.00) and FMA ($10,000.00).