Columbia, MD [November 13, 2025] Technology Advancement Center (TAC) and West Virginia University (WVU) have established a strategic partnership 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, enabling students and professionals to earn recognized academic credit for completing the program. The five-day, hands-on Bootcamp provides intensive training in OT cybersecurity preparedness relevant to all 16 critical infrastructure sectors, equipping participants to bridge the gap between information technology and operational technology environments. Building on this foundation, the two parties intend to develop additional academic course pathways centered around the OT Bootcamp experience to further expand learning and credentialing opportunities in operational technology and critical infrastructure security. Together, WVU and TAC aim to cultivate a highly skilled national security workforce and enhance the resilience of America’s critical systems.
A Collaborative Effort to Build Cyber Resilience
Through this partnership, WVU and TAC aim to address a growing need for professionals who can navigate the complex intersection of information technology and operational technology. The OT Bootcamp offers participants a hands-on, immersive experience that prepares them to identify vulnerabilities, implement security protocols, and respond effectively to cyber threats affecting critical infrastructure sectors.
“I am really excited about this opportunity to partner with a premier academic institution like WVU,” said Chris Hollifield, CEO of TAC. “It is clear to me they understand what is required to train the next generation of cyber warriors. This program will equip participants with the practical skills and academic credentials to make an immediate impact in protecting our nation’s critical systems.”
Looking Ahead
Building on the success of the OT Bootcamp, TAC and WVU plan to expand their collaboration by developing additional academic course pathways. These initiatives will provide further learning and credentialing opportunities in operational technology and critical infrastructure security, ultimately strengthening the national security workforce.
