Dr. Clifford P. Coppersmith

Factories close and markets shift, but a community that invests in its people never becomes obsolete. Here on the Shore, the single most powerful tool we have for lasting regional prosperity is locally-focused education.

In marking Community College Month, we celebrate that Chesapeake College is an economic engine providing access to better wages, talent development and future-proof careers. From Health Professions programs like registered nursing, EMT, and radiology technician, to skilled trades like welding, construction, and commercial driver’s license, to transfer programs leading to careers in Business, Education, Agriculture, and Computer Science, regionally relevant programming helps our communities attract employers, retain working families, and adapt to market disruptions.

The Eastern Shore has always been built on hard work. However, hard work alone isn’t enough when jobs change and economies evolve. As the president of Chesapeake, I consider it a sacred trust to ensure our classrooms evolve with the times, and I’m grateful we are supported by local leaders who understand the value of an updated and educated workforce. Part of the way The College gives back is by helping retain young people in our region; an estimated 87% of students remain in the Mid-Shore after finishing their time at Chesapeake, with another 8% settling elsewhere within the state.

When our students gain new skills, they don’t just fill open positions – they create them. An educated population attracts employers, raises median wages, and circulates more spending through local businesses. Regions that invest in workforce education enjoy compounding returns as each skilled worker becomes a multiplier for the local economy. In fact, every year Chesapeake College adds $164 million to the region’s economy.

Brittney Matthews

For example, I’d like to celebrate the achievements of Brittney Matthews, who set a goal of earning three health professions certifications in one year. So far, she has completed Clinical Medical Assistant and Certified Nursing Assistant, and she is now enrolled to be a Phlebotomy Technician. Of her journey, Brittney explains, “Managing three programs within a year while raising two children and working a full-time job required discipline, strong time management, and consistency. I remained focused on my goals and stayed committed to completing each program successfully. I was also blessed with a strong support system—my family and friends encouraged me and helped keep me motivated throughout the process.” Stories like hers inspire me, and there are so many here.

In Cambridge, Robert Brown, who works at Dallas Welding and Cycles, just completed four weeks of skill-enhancing training in the College’s Mobile Welding Trailer. Robert explained that the course improved his abilities “tenfold,” and that Dave Willy’s instruction helped boost his confidence and motivation to work toward the goal of one day owning his own shop.

Finally, I am in awe of the achievements and aspirations of our 2026 Harrison Award Winner, Zoe Markovic. As she completes an Associate degree, she has earned a 3.9 GPA, Dean’s list distinction, and membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. She plans to pursue a degree in Engineering at the University of Maryland, and aspires to a career in renewable energy or aerospace. Wow! To everyone who has encouraged and supported our students, and who has given generously by donating equipment, time, perspective, and funding I say thank you. These students and their families, and ultimately all of us together, benefit.

This next generation of students are entering a workforce that is changing daily—the result of automation, AI, and a myriad of other factors. Chesapeake is preparing for the future with projects like our new mobile welding lab, our construction trades trailer, and a new 25,000 square-foot Queen Anne’s Technical Building on the Wye Mills campus, currently in the design phase, with an anticipated 2029 grand opening. More than anything, we strive every day to listen and help meet the needs of our beautiful region and its families. The best way to for us all to face the challenges ahead is by adapting, collaborating, and investing locally.

Dr. Clifford P. Coppersmith is the president of Chesapeake College.