TAC and West Virginia University Partnership
This month, TAC announced a strategic partnership with West Virginia University (WVU) to advance education, research, and workforce development in national security, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure protection.
As part of this collaboration, WVU will offer TAC’s Operational Technology (OT) Bootcamp with academic accreditation. This five-day, hands-on Bootcamp provides intensive training in OT cybersecurity preparedness relevant across all 16 critical infrastructure sectors, equipping participants to bridge the gap between IT and OT environments.
Looking ahead, TAC and WVU plan to develop additional academic course pathways centered on the OT Bootcamp, expanding credentialing and learning opportunities in operational technology and critical infrastructure security.
Bill, a WVU representative, shared:
“West Virginia University is proud to announce our strategic partnership with the Technology Advancement Center (TAC). As a flagship, R1 institution, WVU is committed to advancing applied research, strengthening the cyber workforce, and developing next-generation digital defense technologies. Together with TAC, we will pursue projects that enhance national security and protect the critical infrastructure our communities depend on every day.”
Chris Hollifield, TAC’s CEO, added:
“This partnership with WVU is a major step forward in building a highly skilled national security workforce. By combining TAC’s hands-on OT cybersecurity training with WVU’s academic excellence, we’re creating pathways for students and professionals to gain both practical experience and recognized credentials, ultimately strengthening the resilience of America’s critical infrastructure.”
TAC’s Holiday Breakfast Social
We’re gearing up to close out the year on a high note with our Holiday Breakfast Social! Join us on December 18, 2025, from 8:00–10:30 AM at TheLink in Columbia, MD for a festive morning of good food, great company, and holiday cheer. This season, we’re celebrating the incredible power of collaboration across the cyber, technology, and defense ecosystem.
Enjoy a breakfast buffet, festive music, and plenty of time to connect with colleagues and partners as we reflect on the year’s accomplishments. We also invite attendees to bring a Marine Corps Toys for Tots donation to support families in our community this holiday season.
Let’s celebrate what we’ve built together, share in the joy of the season, and look ahead to the achievements and opportunities the new year will bring.
Defend The Railroad (DTR) 2026: Just 2 Months Away
With only two months until DTR 2026 on February 10–11, the excitement is building! This month, we’ve confirmed additional speakers and sponsors, further enriching the event’s lineup. Some highlights include:
- John J. Garstka, Director, Cyber Warfare Directorate, OUSD(A&S), U.S. Department of War
- Tariq Habib, Chief Information Security Officer, State of NY Metropolitan Transportation Authority
- Carolyn Hayward-Williams, Director – Office of Railroad Systems and Technology, Office of Safety, Federal Railroad Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation
- Karan Sondhi, Chief Technology Officer, Global Public Sector, Crowdstrike
View the full list of speakers and register today to secure your spot.
Looking Ahead
As we approach December, TAC is focused on closing out the year strong, setting our sights on upcoming goals and events, and continuing to advance cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.
From all of us at TAC, we wish you a Happy Holidays! May your holiday be filled with gratitude, joy, and time spent with friends and family.
