Expanding Cybersecurity Opportunities: The VICEROY Program at WVU
Students keen on exploring careers in cyber and defense will find themselves at the forefront of national security challenges, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between West Virginia University (WVU) and the Department of Defense. This collaboration introduces the Virtual Institute for Cybersecurity and Electromagnetic Spectrum and the Employ Scholars program—collectively known as VICEROY.
WVU’s Role in the VICEROY Initiative
WVU Cyber, an integral part of the university’s commitment to advancing cybersecurity, has been designated as one of only 16 lead universities selected to participate in the VICEROY Scholars program. This prestigious program responds to the growing demand for skilled cyber professionals within the Department of Defense (DoD) and the broader Intelligence Community.
By enabling students to engage directly with defense leaders, the program offers an unprecedented opportunity to address military and national security challenges. Students will gain hands-on experience, tackling real-world issues alongside seasoned professionals in fields like software development, cyber threat analysis, and secure communications.
Learning Through Experience
Within the VICEROY framework, the emphasis is on experiential learning. Bill Walker, the executive director of WVU Cyber, highlights the program’s potential for elevating academic offerings: “Participating in VICEROY takes our programs to the next level by creating hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for students.” This immersive approach not only deepens students’ understanding but also equips them with the necessary skill sets for successful careers in national defense.
Real-World Internships
Two WVU students, Morgan Baker and Emily Le, have already reaped the benefits of the VICEROY program through internships connected to Air Combat Command. Their experiences provide a glimpse into the kinds of projects that participants can expect.
Morgan Baker’s Experience
Baker, who is pursuing a dual degree in data science and economics, has also minored in business ethics and prosperity. During her internship, she tackled the modernization of databases used by senior military leaders. By developing automated dashboards, she played a crucial role in significantly reducing reporting time. Baker reflects on her experience, stating, “It made me think seriously about how government employment could give me the chance to work on more rewarding projects where I can make a meaningful contribution.”
Emily Le’s Experience
Similarly, Emily Le is pursuing a dual major in management information systems and economics, alongside a minor in cybersecurity. Her focus during her internship was on aviation safety initiatives, where she developed dashboards to assist leadership in tracking and managing safety recommendations. Le’s insights reveal a deeper understanding of the cyber realm: “It showed me that cyber resilience is not just technical. It is a strategic necessity, and it made me excited to pursue work where I can help organizations build stronger, safer systems.”
Faculty and Staff Involvement
The VICEROY partnership does not solely benefit students; it also serves as a valuable resource for faculty and staff. This collaboration opens avenues for research, mentoring, and experiences that extend lessons learned in the classroom. “This new partnership adds to the work our faculty, staff, and students put into cyber every day,” Walker emphasizes, noting that the initiative will enhance their existing efforts in preparing students for the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
Becoming a VICEROY Scholar
WVU students who are interested in becoming VICEROY Scholars can easily apply through the VICEROY Scholar application process. Successful applicants will receive a $1,000 stipend and become eligible for fully funded summer internships, further solidifying their path in the defense and cybersecurity fields.
Commitment to Cybersecurity
WVU’s collaboration with the Department of Defense through the VICEROY program exemplifies a strong commitment to advancing educational opportunities in cybersecurity. The institution is poised to prepare its students to address pressing national security challenges, ensuring they are well-equipped for meaningful careers in defense.
For more information on the initiatives moving WVU Cyber forward, explore the resources available at WVU Cyber.
