WVU is expanding access to hands-on, experiential learning for students in its WVU Cyber program via a new strategic partnership with TWENTY, a leading company at the crossroads of offensive cyber and artificial intelligence-enabled technologies. (WVU Photo/Brian Persinger)
To expand opportunities for West Virginia University students and advance innovation at the intersection of artificial intelligence and national security, WVU Cyber is launching a strategic partnership with TWENTY, a leading offensive cyber company.
The collaboration will create a direct pipeline for WVU Cyber students to internships with TWENTY, where they will engage with real-world challenges, develop advanced technical skills and gain hands-on experience working missions for the nation’s top military and intelligence organizations.
“At West Virginia University, our students learn by doing,” President Michael T. Benson said. “This partnership creates new opportunities for students to engage directly with leaders in cyber and emerging technology while contributing to West Virginia’s growing role in national security.”
In addition to internship opportunities, the partnership will support experiential learning and applied research initiatives focused on offensive cyber operations and artificial intelligence-enabled technologies, an area that differs from most cyber companies centered primarily on defense.
“TWENTY provides a rare opportunity for our students to engage with a company operating at the bleeding edge of offensive cyber and AI-enabled systems designed to help identify and counter adversarial threats,” said Bill Walker, executive director of WVU Cyber and the University’s head of national security and cyberspace programs.
“This partnership will give students hands-on experience and mentorship in an area of cyber that is absolutely essential to national security and the future cyber workforce.”
U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito said investments in cyber education and workforce development are critical to strengthening West Virginia’s economy and the nation’s security.
“West Virginia continues to be a leader in innovation, cybersecurity, and workforce development, and this partnership between West Virginia University and TWENTY is further proof of that,” Senator Capito said. “By connecting students with cutting-edge opportunities in AI and national security, we are preparing the next generation to meet the demands of the digital age. Investments like this strengthen both West Virginia’s economy and our nation’s cyber readiness.”
U.S. Rep. Riley Moore said the collaboration is critical to workforce development in the name of homeland defense.
“West Virginia is taking a leadership position in cybersecurity and advanced technology, and this partnership between West Virginia University and TWENTY is a major step forward,” he said. “By connecting our students with hands-on experience in AI and cyber operations, we are building the next generation of talent that will strengthen both our workforce and our national security. I’m proud to support efforts that create opportunity for West Virginians while helping America stay ahead of emerging threats.”
“We are proud to partner with West Virginia University to help prepare the next generation of cyber professionals,” said Joe Lin, CEO of TWENTY. “This collaboration will give students meaningful experience working on real-world challenges tied to emerging technologies and national security.”
Find more information about WVU Cyber.
-WVU-
jc/5/11/26
MEDIA CONTACT: Katie Farmer
Executive Director of Strategic Priorities
WVU Strategic Communications and Marketing
315-256-8509; Katie.Farmer@mail.wvu.edu
Call 1-855-WVU-NEWS for the latest West Virginia University news and information from WVUToday.