West Virginia University Cyber announced on May 11 a new strategic partnership with TWENTY, an offensive cyber company, aimed at expanding student opportunities and advancing innovation in artificial intelligence and national security.
The partnership is designed to provide WVU Cyber students with direct access to internships at TWENTY, where they will work on real-world challenges and develop technical skills relevant to military and intelligence missions. This initiative seeks to prepare students for careers in a growing field while contributing to the state’s role in national security.
“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 internships, the collaboration will support experiential learning projects and applied research focused on offensive cyber operations and artificial intelligence-enabled technologies. Bill Walker, executive director of WVU Cyber, said: “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.” He added: “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. Senator Shelley Moore Capito said investments like this are vital for strengthening both the state’s economy and America’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. Representative Riley Moore also supported the effort: “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.
Joe Lin, CEO of TWENTY, commented: “We are proud to partner with West Virginia University to help prepare the next generation of cyber professionals. This collaboration will give students meaningful experience working on real-world challenges tied to emerging technologies and national security.”
West Virginia University has produced notable scholarship recipients including 25 Rhodes Scholars, 27 Truman Scholars among others; it fosters an inclusive community across distinctive campuses; its motto ‘Mountaineers Go First’ reflects its commitment toward building a stronger future for both state residents as well as beyond—all according to its official website.
