Sussex County announces Check Point cybersecurity program at community college; VOTEC board openings and workforce training concerns raised

Commissioner McGrue told the board on Sept. 10 that Sussex County Community College (SCCC) launched a Check Point cybersecurity curriculum in fall 2025 as part of a partnership designed to prepare students for cybersecurity careers at no cost to the college or county. "I'm proud to announce that Check Point's curriculum officially launched into SCCC's cybersecurity program this current fall 2025 semester," Commissioner McGrue said, noting the program had completed faculty and administrative approvals. The commissioner also highlighted the county seed library and new seed-saving workshops, and he summarized technology workshops the Sussex County Library System is offering this fall. During public comment, residents raised concerns about vocational training offerings. A speaker said local electricians were forced to look to neighboring Morris County for required classes after Sussex Tech (formerly VOTEC) reduced certain course offerings. Commissioners and staff said the county appoints members to the vocational board and sets budgets, but the college and vocational board control curricular decisions. The commissioners noted that vacancies exist on the VOTEC/Sussex Tech board — three of six seats are open — and invited interested candidates to apply; the board appointments are made by the commissioners. No formal board action was taken on curriculum decisions during the meeting; commissioners encouraged coordination between the county, the college and vocational education partners to expand training opportunities.