Montgomery College leaders advocate for full FY26 budget to support workforce development

The Montgomery County Council session on April 8, 2025, highlighted the critical role of Montgomery College in addressing workforce shortages in the healthcare and technology sectors. Key speakers emphasized the importance of funding the college's operating budget to sustain its partnerships and programs that prepare local talent.

Holy Cross Health representatives underscored their collaboration with Montgomery College, particularly through the Germantown campus, which houses the first hospital built on a community college campus in the nation. They praised the college for producing well-trained healthcare professionals, including nurses and medical assistants, who are essential to meeting the needs of the community. The partnership also includes a career pathways program that helps entry-level employees gain certifications in high-demand fields, removing financial barriers to education.

Colleen Salinas, representing Infosol LLC, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the company's reliance on Montgomery College graduates for skilled IT positions. She noted the success of the Tech MAP program, which bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application, preparing students for careers in technology. Salinas emphasized the importance of continued support for Montgomery College to ensure it can provide the necessary training for the local workforce, particularly for federal employees in the area.

The discussions during the council session reflect a strong consensus on the need for ongoing investment in Montgomery College to foster local talent and address workforce challenges in both healthcare and technology sectors. The council's decisions in the coming weeks regarding the college's budget will be crucial for sustaining these vital programs and partnerships.