Kansas Community Colleges and National Guard Partner to Combat Cybersecurity Skills Gap

A new statewide partnership between Kansas Community Colleges and the Kansas National Guard aims to bolster the state’s cybersecurity workforce and address the growing national demand for skilled professionals in this critical field. The initiative, formally established through a proclamation signed on February 11, 2026, will focus on developing educational pathways and credentialing programs to train Airmen, veterans, and Kansas learners.

Addressing the Cybersecurity Workforce Shortage

The collaboration comes at a time when the cybersecurity landscape is rapidly evolving and the demand for qualified professionals is outpacing supply. According to U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), this partnership is a crucial step towards positioning Kansas as a leader in cybersecurity. “Kansas is ready to lead the nation in cybersecurity, and this partnership makes it possible,” said Senator Marshall. [Source]

Participating Institutions and Program Focus

Several Kansas Community Colleges are participating in the initiative, including Cloud County, Butler, Garden City, Barton, Hutchinson, Newman University, and Cowley College. These institutions will work closely with the Kansas National Guard’s 184th Wing to develop and expand curriculum, focusing on areas such as cybersecurity, unmanned aerial systems, and artificial intelligence.

Innovative Educational Models

The partnership will incorporate innovative educational models designed to provide flexible and accessible training opportunities. These include:

• Stackable Credentials: Allowing learners to build upon existing skills and qualifications.
• Micro-Pathways: Focused, short-term training programs designed to quickly equip individuals with specific skills.
• Competency-Based Learning: Focusing on demonstrated skills and knowledge rather than traditional coursework.

Hutchinson Community College’s Role

Hutchinson Community College is uniquely positioned to contribute to the initiative through its established Cybersecurity program, which offers an Associate of Science degree. The program provides hands-on instruction in programming and secure coding, utilizing industry-relevant tools and scenarios to prepare students for real-world cybersecurity challenges. Jesse Newberry, associate professor of Information Technology at Hutchinson Community College, emphasized the program’s impact: “This isn’t just a curriculum enhancement — it’s a direct pipeline to the front lines of digital defense.”

Impact on Workforce Development and National Security

Heather Morgan, Executive Director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, highlighted the broader significance of the partnership: “Kansas Community Colleges are excited for this new partnership…to enhance cyber security…knowledge of soldiers and civilians who support them.” [Source] The initiative reinforces the vital role Kansas community colleges play in both workforce development and national security by creating a direct pipeline to critical, high-impact roles.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s cybersecurity offerings, visit www.hutchcc.edu/cybersecurity.