ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today joined leaders from cybersecurity education provider IronCircle and local officials to mark the opening of IronCircle’s new global headquarters in Columbia, Maryland’s Merriweather District. The approximately 12,000-square-foot facility represents a major investment in Maryland’s cybersecurity industry and is expected to bring more than 200 jobs to the state as IronCircle relocates its AI cybersecurity workforce platform from Florida to Maryland.
“IronCircle’s decision to open their new, global headquarters in Columbia affirms Maryland’s growing status as the cyber capital of America,” said Gov. Moore. “By doubling-down on industries of the future like cyber and AI, our administration is growing Maryland’s economy and building new pathways to work, wages, and wealth for all. We are thrilled to partner with IronCircle in our work to make Maryland more competitive.”
IronCircle is a cybersecurity training platform trusted by the world’s leading universities and businesses, and has received numerous awards for its efforts to eliminate cyber workforce vacancies. The IronCircle platform leverages the power of artificial intelligence to simulate complex, real-world scenarios reflective of today’s evolving cybersecurity threats. The new global headquarters in Columbia will create opportunities for Maryland’s cyber workforce, including roles for cybersecurity contractors and instructors.
“Howard County is home to nearly 300 cybersecurity companies and a global leader in cyber innovation, pioneering new ways to protect ourselves online. Located just a short drive from Fort Meade and Baltimore Washington International Airport, home to the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, Howard County is at the heart of our nation’s cybersecurity efforts,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “With today’s grand opening and ribbon-cutting of IronCircle’s global headquarters in Howard County, the destinies of Howard County, IronCircle, and the State of Maryland are inexorably linked, and that shared destiny is one of a bold, fabulous future. I look forward to many years of partnerships to move our county and our state forward.”
Maryland’s strong cyber workforce and its proximity to some of the nation’s leading cyberdefense hubs were key factors in IronCircle’s decision to relocate its headquarters to Columbia’s Merriweather District. Information technology is a major part of Maryland’s economy: nearly 19,000 I.T. businesses in Maryland support more than 124,000 jobs across the state, generating nearly $80 billion in economic activity. More than 24 percent of information technology job postings in the region are cyber-skilled roles, with average starting salaries exceeding $100,000.
“Maryland is at the epicenter of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence innovation, and Columbia offers the perfect environment for our team to grow, collaborate, and advance our mission. We are tapping into the nation’s top cyber minds and a deep pool of local talent,” said IronCircle Chief Executive Officer James C. Foster. “Our headquarters is a statement of our long-term commitment to workforce development, cutting-edge technology, and the communities we proudly serve and reside in.”
“Today’s ribbon cutting demonstrates our shared vision with Maryland leadership in positioning the state at the forefront of tech innovation,” said Howard Hughes Senior Vice President for National Sales and Leasing Alex Hancock. “We are building a dynamic hub for growth here in Columbia’s Merriweather District, and we are excited to welcome IronCircle and support their success.”
Cybersecurity remains a critical component of the Moore-Miller Administration’s economic strategy. As part of Governor Moore’s targeted growth investments through the FY 2026 budget, Maryland is investing $3 million into Cyber Maryland, a program within the Maryland Department of Labor to accelerate cybersecurity innovation and connect Maryland’s cyber talent to employers statewide. The state has also allocated $4.1 million in total grants to develop the next generation of Maryland’s cybersecurity workforce by building cyber ranges—interactive platforms that simulate real-world cyber attacks—in all 16 of Maryland’s community colleges.
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