MD universities offer support to displaced federal workers

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Some Maryland colleges and universities have recently announced measures to support the state’s population of federal workers who have been displaced amid government funding changes and layoffs.  

Hood College’s Bioscience Research and Education Center announced a two-day immersive workshop to help displaced scientists explore entrepreneurship. The program, titled “From Science to Startup: The Entrepreneurial Journey,” was announced in response to the widespread displacement of scientists in the region, many of whom have been put on leave or fired from the federal government.  

Rana Khan, the leader of the department, said the college was inspired to help federal workers due to the impact felt in Frederick County’s many science labs. 

“These are experienced and highly talented people,” she said. The goal of the workshop is to open new pathways for scientists in entrepreneurial fields.  

The college partnered with Kite Pharma and Frederick County Economic Development, among others, to support scientists interested in translating their skills into the business sector.  

On June 26, participants will learn the basics of launching a life sciences startup, including identifying unmet needs and crafting a viable business model. The June 27 session will cover building an effective team, navigating regulations and securing funding.  

Participants will also be able to network with industry professionals after a hands-on experience practicing entrepreneurial skills.  

“Many of them may have this potential,” she said, “they just are not aware that they can also do this because they have always worked in a lab.”  

The University of Maryland Global Campus also announced a career expo for former federal sector employees looking to begin new chapters in their careers. About 20-25 employers are expected to attend. Attendees will be able to learn about UMGC programs geared toward developing new skills or launching a new career.  

The university has also launched a scholarship that will extend federal benefits to workers laid off after January 24 of this year, according to a spokesperson for UMGC. 

The University of Maryland, College Park, also launched a new resource for current students and alumni called the “Pathways Forward Resource Hub,” which will provide educational and career development tools in addition to support for new entrepreneurs.  

“Our mission is to educate and empower future leaders, discover new knowledge, and make groundbreaking discoveries—all while serving the public good and creating a community of care,” President Darryll J. Pines and Senior Vice President and Provost Jennifer King Rice said in a news release from the university.  

These initiatives supplement recent moves by Gov. Wes Moore’s administration, which recently implemented a slew of support programs for former federal workers. Measures include recruiting former federal workers for state government jobs, expanding online resources, and partnering with local and county leaders to host job fairs.  

Moore’s office also announced the launch of a no-interest emergency loan program for qualified federal workers that have been laid off and are experiencing financial hardship. The program was created through the “Protect Our Federal Workers Act,” which Moore signed into law in April.