FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

October 7, 2026 

MEDIA RELATIONS CONTACT:

 410-386-8184 | mediarelations@carrollcc.edu

 Carroll Community College Joins Statewide Investment to Expand Career Pathways for Rural Students 

Carroll Community College is proud to join Governor Wes Moore, the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), and eight other rural-serving colleges and universities in announcing a $2.38 million federal grant to launch the Maryland Rural Pathways to Prosperity Network (MD Pathways).

The four-year initiative will strengthen connections between higher education and industry, creating expanded opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized credentials, participate in paid internships and apprenticeships, and access clear pathways to careers in healthcare, cybersecurity, education, advanced technology, agriculture, and other high-demand fields. 

As one of nine participating institutions, Carroll Community College will play a key role in advancing the network's mission across Northern Maryland by helping students gain the skills, experiences, and employer connections needed to succeed in today's workforce.

"We are honored to be part of this transformative statewide initiative that recognizes the vital role community colleges play in preparing Maryland's future workforce," said Dr. Rosalie Mince, President of Carroll Community College. "At Carroll, we believe education should open doors to opportunity and economic mobility. This investment will strengthen our partnerships with employers, expand career-connected learning, and create even more opportunities for students to learn, experience, and earn while preparing for meaningful careers that support the future growth and prosperity of Carroll County and our region." 

The initiative directly aligns with Carroll Community College's commitment to workforce development and economic mobility. Through innovative programs in healthcare, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, business, and teacher education, Carroll continues to connect students with the skills employers need and the opportunities that strengthen Carroll County's economy. 

The MD Pathways network will provide significant benefits for students and families, including: 

• Expanded access to paid internships, apprenticeships, and work-based learning opportunities

• Stronger connections between short-term credentials, associate degrees, and bachelor's degree programs 

• Enhanced workforce training opportunities for adult learners and career changers 

• Greater integration of artificial intelligence and digital literacy skills into academic programs 

• Direct connections to regional employers in high-demand industries

The project is expected to serve more than 1,000 rural students across Maryland, partner with at least 50 businesses, and create 25 new workforce credential pathways over the next four years.

Governor Moore emphasized the importance of ensuring that geography does not limit opportunity.

 "A student's zip code should never limit their opportunity to earn a good living, buy a home, and build a future right here in Maryland," Governor Moore said. "By connecting local colleges directly with regional employers in industries of the future, we are opening doors to paid apprenticeships and high-wage careers for families across our entire state." 

Carroll Community College joins Allegany College of Maryland, Cecil College, College of Southern Maryland, Garrett College, Harford Community College, St. Mary's College of Maryland, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Wor-Wic Community College in the Maryland Rural Pathways to Prosperity Network. 

For Carroll students, the initiative builds upon the College's long-standing partnerships with local businesses, healthcare providers, manufacturers, school systems, and community organizations, ensuring graduates are prepared for meaningful careers that meet regional workforce needs. 

"Community colleges are uniquely positioned to connect education, workforce development, and economic opportunity," Dr. Mince added. "For Carroll County, this initiative represents an important investment in the talent pipeline that will help local employers meet workforce needs while creating new opportunities for residents to build rewarding careers close to home. By strengthening these connections, we are investing in the success of our students, the vitality of our local economy, and Maryland's future." 

Click here to read the press release from the Governor's Office: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-and-maryland-highereducation-commission-secure-238-million-federal-grant

For more information about Carroll Community College workforce and career programs, visit the College's website at www.carrollcc.edu

PHOTO GALLERY:  CCC Media Relations Photos