February 17, 2026
Story by Amanda Staab
Courtesy photo submitted
Barton Community College is one of six community colleges statewide selected to participate in a new initiative preparing Kansans for high-demand careers in cybersecurity through a partnership between Kansas community colleges and the Kansas National Guard, announced by U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.
The initiative reflects a growing focus on developing skilled professionals to meet critical cybersecurity needs across industry, government, and national defense. Marshall emphasized the importance of expanding cybersecurity talent pipelines, noting that Kansas community colleges, combined with the Guard’s technical expertise, provide a strong foundation for workforce development.
“Kansas is ready to lead the nation in cybersecurity, and this partnership makes it possible,” he said. “By connecting our community colleges with the Kansas National Guard, we are creating real pathways for Kansans to gain the skills our state and country need while building careers in one of the fastest-growing and most critical fields in America.”
Representatives from participating institutions, including Barton, joined Guard leadership and state partners for a formal memorandum of understanding signing Feb. 11 at the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka. The agreement marks a shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and workforce pathways in cybersecurity.
Through the partnership, community colleges will collaborate with the Kansas National Guard’s 184th Intelligence Wing to expand and adapt cybersecurity curriculum, develop stackable credentials and competency-based learning pathways, and broaden access to training opportunities for learners across the state.
Barton’s participation in the statewide collaboration underscores the College’s commitment to student success and regional economic growth. As demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to increase nationwide, initiatives like this help ensure Kansans have access to industry-relevant training and credentialing opportunities.
At Barton, the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to support workforce-driven education and respond to employer demand throughout central and western Kansas. Under the leadership of Barton President Marcus Garstecki, the college has continued to strengthen strategic partnerships and innovative programming that connect students with in-demand technical skills.
“Partnerships like this allow us to provide students with relevant training and clear pathways to career opportunities in cybersecurity,” he said. “By aligning educational programming with evolving industry needs and state partners, Barton is helping prepare the next generation of professionals for success in this critical field.”
The full text of the proclamation is available online.