Hancock & Cuesta Receive Grant to Develop High Tech-Hubs

APRIL 21, 2025-- Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College have been awarded state funding through Uplift Central Coast’s Catalyst Predevelopment Grant initiative to establish the AHC/CC High Tech Hubs: Diversifying Careers Through Education project.

This initiative aims to address regional workforce gaps by preparing the next generation of aerospace engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and skilled technicians in high-demand industries. The grant is part of Uplift Central Coast’s recent $9 million investment in 36 projects across six counties, supporting economic growth, workforce development, and equitable job opportunities.

A key component of the project is the development of a cybersecurity associate degree for transfer, a program that currently does not currently exist at either Hancock or Cuesta. The two Central Coast colleges will collaborate to create shared curriculum, build state-of-the-art cybersecurity labs, and provide students with hands-on training to address modern cyber threats. By offering this much-needed program, both colleges hope to establish a direct pathways to university transfer, professional certifications or two-year degrees for students pursuing careers in cybersecurity and other related career fields.

“Hancock is committed to providing students—especially those from traditionally underserved communities—with the skills and resources they need to succeed in high-tech, high-wage careers,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers. “This grant allows us to break down barriers and open doors to incredible opportunities for Central Coast students.”

In addition, the funding will allow the college to explore expanded transportation options between Hancock’s Santa Maria and Lompoc Valley Center campuses, improving student access to courses and work-based learning opportunities.  Such opportunities include internships, apprenticeships and industry partnerships in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, computer science and other high-tech fields. These efforts ensure that students gain valuable hands-on experience while completing their education.

By fostering industry partnerships and expanding educational pathways, the High-Tech Hubs project will help fill critical employment gaps while promoting diversity in STEM fields. The initiative prioritizes support for women, low-income students, first-generation collegegoers and communities of color.

“Cuesta is thrilled to demonstrate our commitment to meeting regional employers' evolving needs by preparing students for dynamic careers in cybersecurity,” said Cuesta College Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Instruction Dr. Jason Curtis. “Our partnership with Allan Hancock College will deliver cutting-edge courses in this rapidly expanding field, creating exceptional opportunities for our students.”

Uplift Central Coast, a coalition dedicated to regional economic resilience, selected Hancock and Cuesta’s project from a highly competitive pool of 136 proposals. The funding will support predevelopment efforts to ensure long-term success and sustainability.

To learn more about Uplift Central Coast, visit https://upliftcentralcoast.org.