Often in our desire to educate ourselves and advance our individual pursuits we overlook some very important local tools -- Community Colleges. They are a low cost, flexible, alternative form of education that can prepare a student to enter a four year degree program or quickly prepare a person to reenter the workforce.

Baltimoreans have a wonderful selection of such schools, each with its own specialty. Baltimore City Community College and Catonsville Community College have recently received more funding in anticipation of an increased need for the services provided by these institutions. Every community college in Maryland offers custom-designed and regularly scheduled curricula for businesses, government agencies, professional and labor organizations. These programs include specific fields of vocational, technical and apprenticeship training, quality management training for all level supervisors, retirement planning, basic skills training, and certification courses for many professional organizations and career fields.

Recent legislation initiated by the Governor and enacted by the state legislature has allocated more funding to community colleges for Advance Technology Centers (ATC). ATC’s are a crucial element in Maryland’s strategy for increased economic competitiveness and development. These programs focus on supplying specific industries with highly skilled workers specifically equipped to fill available positions.

If current legislation is successful, Baltimore City Community College will see its general fund increased by some $1.4 million in Fiscal Year 1999. Catonsville Community College has just received a four year federal grant in the amount of $245,028. The funds have been slated for a "Talent Search" program to identify and assist people from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. This program is unique because it recruits high school dropouts and encourages them to re-enter the education system and complete their training. Effective programs like these allow Maryland to retain workers for high skill, high wage jobs, and attracts new businesses creating job growth.

The state-wide ATC program will zero in on "targeted industries." Aerospace, biotechnology, environmental services, financial services, health care, information technology, technology driven manufacturing, telecommunications, tourism, and warehousing/distribution are among the targeted industries. Since economists project that 60% of all jobs will soon require at least an associate degree, many in our community will have to make adjustments to keep pace with the changing demands of the employment market. High school students, parents looking for a career change, those forced off the welfare rolls, and anyone interested in continuing their education should thoroughly investigate the community college nearest them.

Education is a valuable resource and a key tool to empower ourselves and our families. If you are reading this article and have been thinking about going back to school, the bell is ringing and class is in session. It has been said that "a journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step." Pick up the phone now and contact the community college of your choice. Ask for a registration packet and a course catalog. Once you receive these materials, take your time and read them carefully. Formulate a plan and complete the application. Be aware of all deadlines and submit the application in a timely manner. Also, call the financial aid office at the institution to find out what types of assistance are available.