Howard County Executive Calvin Ball gears up for a significant step onto the international stage as he's been invited to speak at the It-Sa Expo&Congress 2024, one of the cybersecurity industry's leading global conferences. Held in Germany, Ball's presence underscores Howard County's eminence in cyber defense and IT innovation. According to a statement from Howard County, following his conference address, Ball will lead an 11-day trade mission through Europe with the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) to widen the scope of international collaboration and export opportunities for local businesses.

Branded as the 'Silicon Valley of the East,' Howard County, under Ball's leadership, is nurturing its global stature in cybersecurity innovation. In an official statement, Ball highlighted the importance of this venture, "It is essential that we continue to invest in cybersecurity innovation, for the future of Howard County, and the security of our regional, national, and global community." The expedition, from October 19th to October 30th, is poised to be a significant move in establishing stronger economic links and long-term partnerships, particularly within Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

The European Trade Mission will see Ball joined by influential figures, including Jennifer Jones, CEO of HCEDA, and Dr. Daria Willis, President of Howard Community College (HCC), among others from various sectors of Howard County's business and academic institutions. Aiming to deepen international connections, their agenda includes facilitating business partnerships, foreign investment prospects, and expanding educational partnerships. Specifically, the HCEDA stands out as one of three countries boasting dedicated international business development personnel, signaling its commitment to a global economic presence.

While in Germany, Ball will engage with German cybersecurity experts and share his insights on market entry into the U.S. cybersecurity ecosystem. With Dr. Matthias Kampmann of the German Cyber Cluster, an MOU signing is on the books to cement a burgeoning partnership focused on innovation and the nurturing of startups. Made immediately after Ball joined HCC to launch a new facility meant to bridge the skilled worker gap, this relationship will be further consolidated with a tie-up between HCC and the Technology University of Nuremberg.