CSM Among Recipients of $2.38 Million Federal Grant to Connect Rural Students with Careers

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is one of nine colleges and universities in the state receiving grant funding to expand job training and degree pathways for students in rural communities pursuing in-demand careers. 

The $2.38 million federal grant will create the Maryland Rural Pathways Network (MD Pathways), a four-year initiative coordinated through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). The initiative will expand access to internships, apprenticeships, and clear degree pathways for students to enter careers in healthcare, cybersecurity, aerospace, high-tech agriculture, and education.  

“CSM students are deeply connected to the communities we serve,” said CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson. “MD Pathways will strengthen the college’s partnerships with regional employers, give students a stronger connection to high-demand career opportunities, and help us prepare students to begin successful careers in Southern Maryland. We look forward to working with this network to create pathways to economic mobility and strengthen our region’s workforce.” 

Through this initiative, institutions will work with regional employers to establish apprenticeships, internships, and training programs for students to gain workforce experience and earn industry-recognized credentials. Participating colleges and universities will also create clear pathways connecting certification programs to associate and bachelor’s degree programs for students to seamlessly continue their education.  

“At CSM, we are actively developing pathways for students to complete certificate programs and seamlessly transition into credit programs,” Wilson said. “Our healthcare administration degree program, set to welcome students in fall 2027, is part of that effort. MD Pathways will help us build on these opportunities and support students towards their career goals.”  

MD Pathways includes the following nine colleges and universities: 

• Allegany College of Maryland  

• Carroll Community College  

• Cecil College  

• College of Southern Maryland  

• Garrett College  

• Harford Community College  

• St. Mary's College of Maryland  

• University of Maryland Eastern Shore  

• Wor-Wic Community College  

Statewide, the initiative aims to serve more than 1,000 rural students, partner with at least 50 regional businesses, and launch 25 new workforce credential pathways over the next four years.