NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College is set to advance cybersecurity education with the launch of Maryland’s Cyber Workforce Accelerator (CWA) program. To celebrate this milestone, the college will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 17, at 2 p.m. in the Technology Building on its North East Campus.
The CWA program, established in 2024 by the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) in partnership with BCR Cyber, provides cutting-edge cyber ranges to Maryland’s 16 community colleges. These advanced training systems simulate real-world cyber-attacks, equipping students with practical skills in cybersecurity concepts and operations.
Cecil College President Dr. Mary Way Bolt emphasized the program’s importance to the college’s ongoing efforts to prepare students for vital roles in cybersecurity. “The cybersecurity program has been re-designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS, reflecting the institution’s dedication to preparing students for critical roles in cybersecurity,” she said. “This dedication aligns with the goals of the Cyber Workforce Accelerator program, which aims to equip students with practical cybersecurity skills through advanced training environments.”
Through the program, Cecil College will incorporate the BCR Cyber Series 3000 Cyber Range into its cybersecurity curriculum. Students will now have access to dedicated workstations to gain hands-on experience, demonstrating knowledge in hyper-realistic scenarios with guidance from peers and professors.
Brad Phillips, Executive Director of MACC, reiterated the broader impact of this initiative, stating, “The Cyber Workforce Accelerator program, with its cutting-edge cyber ranges, will be a game-changer for cybersecurity education in Maryland. We are proud to support this initiative at Cecil College and its positive impact on its students and the state’s economy.”
The CWA program also includes a Workforce Development component featuring BCR Cyber’s SOC Operations Analyst I training and certification. Graduates will earn an industry-recognized credential designed to prepare them for entry-level roles in Security Operations Centers (SOC). This certification aligns with federal standards and industry expectations, bridging the gap between education and workforce demands.
“There is a significant need in Maryland for skilled IT and cybersecurity professionals,” said Michael Spector, President of BCR Cyber. “Community colleges play a vital role not only in helping meet this need but also in facilitating meaningful employment for jobseekers. We are excited about the launch of the cyber range at Cecil College and the opportunities it presents.”
By combining academic and workforce development components, Cecil College’s participation in the CWA program is poised to address critical gaps in the cybersecurity industry while opening doors for students and strengthening Maryland’s economic future.
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