BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Whatcom Community College is upgrading its nationally-recognized cybersecurity program.
The school announced on Tuesday, Nov. 3, that they have received a $6.75 million grant from the National Science Foundation.
Those funds will support new initiatives focused on strengthened cybersecurity education and preparing students to respond to emerging threats in the industry.
The school says they’re creating a new workforce advisory council to better align their programs with industry needs, along with new curriculum that incorporates AI.
“This $6.75 million investment from the National Science Foundation is a tremendous recognition of Whatcom Community College’s national leadership in cybersecurity education and the important work of our NCyTE Center,” said Dr. Justin Guillory, President of Whatcom Community College, in a news release. “As cybersecurity needs continue to evolve, community colleges play a critical role in preparing a skilled workforce. This funding allows us to expand educational opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and advance innovation in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.”
The five-year grant will run through September 2031.
WCC was one of the first community colleges in the U.S. to be designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense.
According to WCC, there are 98 students pursuing a future in cybersecurity this fall quarter.
