A Growing Coalition of Proud Donors
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Notable Donations Supporting Skilled Trades Center
HCC gratefully received two major gifts totaling $1.2 million to support the construction and programming of the college’s Workforce Development and Trades Center (WDTC), a historic project set to break ground this fall.
A Columbia-based family donated $1 million, and Apple Ford Lincoln of Columbia committed $200,000 to the WDTC. President of Apple Ford Lincoln, Chip Doetsch, who serves as a member of the WDTC Capital Campaign advisory council, says the gift will support the building of the 50,000 square foot facility that will train future professionals in welding, plumbing, HVAC, automotive trades, and more.
The shortage of skilled workers in trades and technical fields is a pressing challenge in today’s economy. The center will play a pivotal role in addressing this gap by equipping students from all backgrounds with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in high-demand careers.
Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Grant
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced a $60,000 grant to support cybersecurity workforce development programs at Howard Community College. The grant is an investment in career apprenticeship funding and matches a grant awarded by the Howard County Economic Development Authority.
The announcement was made during the executive’s ‘State of the Business Address’ made during the Business Outlook Luncheon hosted by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. The funding will grow the HCC cybersecurity apprenticeship program to serve 34 emerging professionals in IT protection and help desk careers.