Students test cyber skills, connect with employers at Commonwealth Cyber Fusion
Students test cyber skills, connect with employers at Commonwealth Cyber Fusion
Publish Date: 2026-02-20 17:58:00
Source Domain: www.wdbj7.com
Using an unordered list, summarize the following article with between 4 and 8 key points. LEXINGTON, Va. (WDBJ) – Students from across Virginia are stepping into one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most critical career paths, cybersecurity, during a statewide event focused on real-world training and workforce development.Held at Virginia Military Institute, the annual Commonwealth Cyber Fusion event brings together colleges, companies and aspiring cyber professionals for two days of competition, networking and career exploration. Organizers say the goal is simple. Prepare students for a digital future where cybersecurity touches nearly every industry.Throughout the event, students compete in a team-based cyber challenge designed to simulate the kind of collaboration they will face in the workforce. Kim Connolly, assistant director of programs and conferences at VMI, compared the competition to a Jeopardy-style format where teams solve problems worth different point values. The structure encourages students to divide responsibilities, communicate and rely on each other’s strengths, skills employers expect in real-world cyber roles.That teamwork reflects how cybersecurity professionals operate on the job, where solving complex problems often requires multiple perspectives and coordinated effort.Beyond competition, students also meet directly with companies looking to hire. Sarah Hayes, director of innovation and workforce development with the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, said the event gives students experiential learning while allowing them to showcase their abilities to potential employers. She said students leave with industry connections and a clearer understanding of available career paths across Virginia.Organizers say demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow as more infrastructure, from businesses to public systems, moves online. Industry leaders view events like Cyber Fusion as critical to building a workforce capable of defending against evolving threats.Patrick McShea, executive director of cyber mission operations at CACI, said cybersecurity is essential in today’s environment, where digital threats are constant. Encouraging more students to enter the field strengthens defenses for everyone, he said.For students like VMI cadet John Stotler, the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and digital technology makes cybersecurity feel especially urgent. He said fast-growing technology raises new security concerns and highlights the importance of getting involved early, calling the field a clear part of the future.With competition, career networking and real-world problem solving under one roof, organizers say Commonwealth Cyber Fusion is helping ensure Virginia’s next generation is prepared to protect an increasingly digital world and step into careers that continue to expand.Copyright 2026 WDBJ. All rights reserved.
