The College of Southern Maryland hosted “Private Sector Pivot,” a free virtual event on January 29, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., to guide federal employees, retirees, and military veterans in transitioning to private-sector careers. More than 70 participants from the region registered for the program, which CSM organized in collaboration with the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland’s Workforce Division, the Maryland Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL), Maryland APEX Accelerator, the Charles County and Southern Maryland Minority Chambers of Commerce, and other resource partners.
The session delivered practical tools and regional resources for career pivots, addressing resume reinvention, eligibility for workforce programs, access to local career services, workshops, and recruiting events. Presenters explored pathways into government contracting, entrepreneurship, and roles as college instructors.
Ellen Flower-Fields, Vice President of Continuing Education and Workforce Education at CSM, opened by acknowledging widespread career transitions in the area: “This presentation is about how to make that transition and what resources are available throughout Maryland to help you reach your goals.”
James Vasquez, Southern Regional Director of the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), highlighted community demand: “Members of our community are searching for guidance on how to navigate new opportunities, and for some, that support is a lifesaver. They already have the skill set that carries over to a new career, they just need some help understanding how to apply it.” The SBDC offers no-cost training and confidential consultations for businesses in Southern Maryland.
One attendee shared positive feedback post-event: “I really appreciate hearing about the events that were afforded to me as a former supervisor and even touched upon my aspirations to becoming an entrepreneur. The most highlighted experience received today was the genuine and friendly nature our Maryland leaders.”
Kelly Winters, Executive Director of Workforce Development, clarified misconceptions about part-time instructing roles, detailing differences between academic faculty and workforce instructors while providing a step-by-step qualification guide. “Real-world experience is incredibly valuable,” Winters said. “We’re looking for subject-matter experts who understand how learned skills are used in the real world. This event is a great opportunity for people to realize being an instructor is something they are qualified to do, and it’s a path they could really thrive going down.”
Since the January 29 session, Winters reported receiving eight applications from attendees interested in workforce instructor positions.
The event reflects Southern Maryland’s emphasis on supporting workforce transitions amid federal and military employment shifts, equipping participants with actionable steps to leverage transferable skills in private industry, small business, or education. High registration and follow-up interest demonstrate regional need for such targeted guidance.
A full recording of the virtual program remains available on the event webpage at the College of Southern Maryland website, with contact details for further resources listed in the presentation.