Cerro Coso Community College Receives $1.1Million for Cybersecurity Program Expansion

Cerro Coso Community College Receives $1.1Million for Cybersecurity Program Expansion

Cerro Coso Community College proudly announces the award of $1.1 million in federal funding to expand and strengthen its cybersecurity programming. Secured through the leadership of Congressman Vince Fong, this investment reinforces the College’s role in advancing regional workforce development and supporting national defense and critical infrastructure protection.

The funding will enhance Cerro Coso’s cybersecurity programs by expanding curriculum, upgrading instructional resources, and increasing hands-on, industry-aligned training opportunities. Located near Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake and key regional defense and public-sector partners, Cerro Coso is uniquely positioned to serve as a pipeline for highly skilled cybersecurity professionals.

“Community colleges are on the front lines of preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals,” said Congressman Vince Fong. “This $1.1 million investment in Cerro Coso Community College will strengthen our national security, support our defense partners at China Lake, and ensure local students have access to high-demand, high-wage careers. I am proud to have secured this critical funding and will continue to support workforce programs that keep our country safe and our region competitive.”

Dr. Sean Hancock, President of Cerro Coso Community College, emphasized the local impact of the investment. “Congressman Fong’s leadership in securing this funding represents a meaningful investment in our students and our regional workforce. This support allows us to expand career pathways that directly serve the workforce needs of NAWS China Lake, regional defense partners, and public-sector employers. By equipping students with in-demand cybersecurity skills, we are strengthening economic resilience and creating high-quality career opportunities for our community.”

Chancellor Steven Bloomberg of the Kern Community College District underscored the broader regional impact. “This federal investment reflects the essential role community colleges play in developing workforce solutions for California and the nation. Cerro Coso’s cybersecurity programs exemplify how community colleges respond quickly to emerging industry needs, particularly in defense, technology, and critical infrastructure. We are grateful to Congressman Fong for recognizing the importance of investing in workforce innovation and expanding access to high-demand career pathways.”

Cerro Coso is also pursuing approval for a Cybersecurity Baccalaureate degree through the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. If approved, the program would further expand advanced workforce opportunities in the region and provide students with a seamless pathway from associate to bachelor’s-level cybersecurity training aligned with employer demand.

As cybersecurity continues to be a national priority, this investment highlights the vital role community colleges play in protecting critical infrastructure, strengthening defense capabilities, and driving regional economic growth.

For more information about Cerro Coso Community College’s cybersecurity programs, please visit www.cerrocoso.edu.

News Staff