SFCC Launches AI Program Integrating Healthcare and Cybersecurity to Meet Workforce Demand

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Cybersecurity: A New Initiative at SFCC

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword; it's becoming a clear career path. Spokane Falls Community College (SFCC) is leading this change with a new program supported by state funding and industry trends. This effort combines AI, healthcare technology, and cybersecurity, building a workforce ready for future job demands. How do regional colleges compete with big tech hubs? By quickly responding to market needs, Spokane is emerging as a strong player in the Pacific Northwest’s innovation scene.

Why Now? Why Spokane?

The timing is crucial. AI adoption is growing fast in healthcare and cybersecurity—sectors essential to national security, public health, and economic growth.

• Healthcare AI Market: Expected to hit $208 billion globally by 2030, driven by improvements in diagnostic imaging, predictive analytics, and virtual care.
• Cybersecurity & AI: According to IBM’s 2023 report, AI-powered security tools help organizations detect breaches 74 days earlier on average.

However, there’s a workforce gap. Healthcare, tech, and defense sectors need people skilled in AI. SFCC’s program responds directly to this urgent demand.

The Program: What SFCC Is Building

A $152,000 grant from the Washington State Board of Community and Technical Colleges, part of a $1 million state initiative, supports SFCC’s development of a full AI curriculum launching in Fall 2026.

Three Pillars of the Program

• Credit-Bearing AI Certificate: A certificate that connects to Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in IT and Cybersecurity. Courses cover machine learning, natural language processing, neural networks, and AI applications in medical technology.
• Non-Credit AI Courses (Open to the Public):
  • AI General (Sept 22 & 24, $65): Covers basics of machine learning, AI ethics, and neural networks.
  • AI in Healthcare (Oct 6 & 8, $65): Focuses on AI-assisted diagnostics, patient monitoring, and predictive analytics. These affordable courses suit professionals wanting skills without a full degree.
• Cyber Center Expansion: SFCC is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, certified by the NSA and DHS. The program integrates AI into cyber labs, offering hands-on training in security operations using real-world tools.

Why Healthcare + Cybersecurity? The Perfect Pairing

Healthcare and cybersecurity are natural partners for several reasons:

• Healthcare is a top cyber target: In 2023, it faced more ransomware attacks than any other industry, showing the need to protect patient data.
• AI improves patient care: Faster radiology analysis, AI-driven drug discovery, and chatbots reduce nurse workloads.
• Cyber + MedTech expertise: Combining skills prepares students for roles in hospitals, startups, military, and defense contractors, meeting market demand for dual-skilled professionals.

The Bigger Picture: Pacific Northwest Tech Momentum

While Seattle often grabs headlines, Spokane is quietly building its own innovation identity. SFCC’s AI program fits into local growth trends:

• Startups: Spokane’s healthcare startup scene is growing, with firms leveraging research from Washington State University.
• Military & Defense: Close to Fairchild Air Force Base, SFCC’s cybersecurity training supports Department of Defense workforce needs.
• Talent Retention: The program helps keep young professionals in Spokane, strengthening the local economy and reducing talent loss to bigger tech hubs.

Practical Benefits for Different Audiences

For Students

• Affordable access to AI education without Silicon Valley’s high costs.
• Certificates that stack into Bachelor’s degrees.
• Hands-on labs offering real experience, not just theory.

For Professionals

• Short two-day courses that fit busy schedules.
• Skills applicable to IT, healthcare administration, and military logistics.
• Resume boosters in high-demand fields.

For Employers

• A talent pool skilled in both AI and cybersecurity.
• Partnership opportunities for internships and research.
• Access to local talent, reducing relocation needs.

Tech Trends Reflected in the Program

• AI + Edge Computing in Healthcare: Portable AI tools are increasingly common in medical settings.
• AI in Cyber Defense: Algorithms detect phishing and malware faster than humans.
• Ethics & Regulation: Courses will evolve alongside laws like the EU AI Act influencing U.S. policies.
• Workforce Accessibility: Short-term AI training helps widen participation beyond advanced degree holders.

Key Takeaways

• AI use in healthcare and cybersecurity is growing, with SFCC positioning Spokane to meet this demand.
• State funding supports accessible and comprehensive AI education.
• Course options range from $65 workshops to credit-bearing certificates.
• SFCC’s national cybersecurity recognition adds credibility.
• The program supports local startups, healthcare providers, and defense employers.

Closing Thought: Curiosity as Career Fuel

SFCC’s AI initiative is more than education—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Innovation isn’t confined to major tech cities; Spokane is proving that curiosity and accessible resources can build a strong tech future. Whether you’re starting out, advancing your career, or hiring, there’s a place for you here. The future of healthcare and cybersecurity starts now, and Spokane is ready.