Cybersecurity Workforce Gap in Maryland
The Maryland Department of Labor recently announced an exciting development in the field of cybersecurity training. They have made available $1.8 million in funding to support the creation and expansion of cyber ranges. These are simulated environments that provide hands-on learning and are crucial for cybersecurity training. Such initiatives are essential to address the critical shortage of trained cybersecurity professionals in the state.
The Need for Cyber Ranges
According to Cyberseek, Maryland faced a significant challenge in 2023, with over 30,000 estimated cybersecurity job openings. Unfortunately, the state struggled to fill one in four positions due to a shortage of skilled professionals, a situation worse than the national average. The targeted funding aims to reduce this gap by building cyber ranges that offer practical training, thereby increasing the supply of skilled workers to meet the demand in the cybersecurity sector.
Labor Secretary Portia Wu highlighted the importance of these ranges, saying, "Employers want cyber professionals with hands-on experience. Cyber ranges can help provide that experience to complement the technical skills learned in the classroom."
Collaboration for Inclusive Training
Grant applicants are required to work closely with employers and industry partners to develop innovative cyber range scenarios. These scenarios must align with the specific skills needed for cybersecurity roles. Furthermore, applicants are encouraged to form partnerships with various organizations to ensure that underrepresented groups—such as women, people of color, and individuals with differing abilities—can also benefit from this training.
Katie Savage, Secretary of DoIT, emphasized, "To secure the State long-term, we need to prioritize best-in-class, hands-on education for the next generation of Maryland cybersecurity professionals."
Upcoming Opportunities
To facilitate the grant process, the Maryland Department of Labor will host a virtual pre-proposal conference on September 4, 2024, at 1:00 pm. Proposals for the grants are due by October 4, 2024, with the grant funding set to commence on November 1, 2024.
Impact of the Cybersecurity Workforce Accelerator
In a related initiative, the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC), in partnership with BCR Cyber, received significant funding of $935,680 through the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program. This partnership will facilitate the Cybersecurity Workforce Accelerator, equipping community colleges with advanced Cyber Ranges. The aim is to train and certify thousands of entry-level IT and cybersecurity practitioners, providing opportunities for both credit and non-credit students.
This comprehensive approach to education and training is set to make Maryland a hub for a diverse and thriving cybersecurity industry, ensuring the state is well-prepared to tackle future challenges in cybersecurity.
