MOUNTAIN HOUSE — Calling community colleges "the ladder to the middle class," U.S. Rep. Josh Harder this week formally presented Delta College with $850,000 in federal funding to support the creation of a new cybersecurity hub at the College's South Campus at Mountain House.
The investment will build upon Delta's existing Cisco networking program and help expand training opportunities in one of the nation's fastest-growing and most in-demand fields. The College aims to position itself as the Central Valley's leader in cybersecurity education and workforce development, creating new pathways into high-paying careers for students and working adults.
The cybersecurity hub is expected to feature simulation technology, cloud security environments, digital forensics tools, and other advanced training infrastructure designed to prepare students for real-world cybersecurity challenges.
"As soon as I heard about Delta’s plans to expand cybersecurity, I thought, 'Oh my gosh, that is just going to be a perfect fit for Mountain House,'" said Rep. Harder. "There is so much good that is going to happen at Delta, especially at this Mountain House campus. I cannot be more excited to see how quickly this program is going to move forward."
The funding arrives as Delta continues planning for a permanent facility at the Mountain House campus, one of the signature projects included in the voter-approved Measure K bond. That future building will house the cybersecurity hub as well as other existing and future academic programs.
"We really appreciate Congressman Harder coming out here today and for all of his support for this really important program for our students," said Delta College Superintendent/President Dr. Lisa Aguilera Lawrenson. "We’re very excited to expand the program and are looking forward to the future here at Mountain House."
In addition to traditional cybersecurity training, the program will emphasize areas especially relevant to the Central Valley economy, including agricultural technology security, critical infrastructure protection, and water-system security.
Students will be able to earn stackable certificates and industry-recognized credentials in areas such as cybersecurity, cloud security, and digital forensics. The program is designed to provide multiple entry and exit points, whether students are pursuing a degree, a short-term credential, or opportunities to upskill for career advancement.
"I have always loved community colleges because I think they are building the ladder to the middle class," said Rep. Harder. "And I cannot think of a better spot than Mountain House, one of the fastest growing cities anywhere in the state... this is just going to do a lot for all of South County and for our entire community."
