Anne Arundel Community College recently began its participation in Maryland’s Cyber Workforce Accelerator program, which provides cyber ranges to all 16 Maryland community colleges for training purposes.
Established in 2024 by the Maryland Association of Community Colleges and BCR Cyber, the key to the program is the BCR Cyber Series 3000 Cyber Range, a training system that simulates cyberattacks, and introduces students to cybersecurity concepts and operations.
AACC will have access to the system via dedicated remote workstations, which will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in a hyper-realistic environment alongside their peers and professors. Once studies are complete, program personnel assist in connecting students with cyber employers.
“There is a significant need here in Maryland for skilled IT and cybersecurity professionals. Community colleges play a vital role not only in helping meet this need, but also helping to facilitate meaningful employment for jobseekers,” said Michael Spector, president of BCR Cyber. “We are excited about the launch of the cyber range at AACC and the opportunities it presents.”
In addition to the academic component of the CWA, MACC and BCR Cyber offer a Workforce Development component, which consists of BCR Cyber’s SOC Operations Analyst I training and certification. Upon completion of the additional training, students will receive certification via a credential designed to prepare individuals for entry-level security operations center roles.
