How Maryland Advances Cybersecurity Through Collaboration

Preparing Maryland's cyber workforce

Coker also pointed to the importance of education and workforce preparation, noting that individuals and organizations large and small alike need the knowledge and tools required to navigate evolving cyber risks.

"We must have the education and usable tools that are necessary to fulfill responsibilities," he said.

The issues discussed by the council overlap with the challenges facing Maryland's cybersecurity workforce, including the rapid emergence of AI. Through its support of the council, UMGC occupies a unique position at the intersection of cybersecurity education and public policy.

Discussions about AI governance, cyber resilience, and the protection of critical infrastructure reflect challenges increasingly confronting cybersecurity professionals. For students preparing for careers in cybersecurity, information technology, and related fields, the council's work offers insight into the policy and operational challenges shaping these professions.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Learn more about cybersecurity in action at UMGC, and register for events and webinars throughout the month at www.umgc.edu/cyberaware.