CyberSmart Workshops

The VMI Cyber Defense Laboratory hosted CyberSmart workshops for high school students and in June 2025 in Marshal Hall on the VMI post. 

The workshop was offered at no cost to students and are sponsored in part by the Department of Defense. Each day included team-based, hands-on projects, intriguing demonstrations and instruction, and mentoring from VMI Cyber Captains. Students acquired knowledge of cybersecurity attacks and defense, develop skills to detect, identify, and mitigate attacks, and demonstrate the ability to analyze problems and build solutions.  

The workshop also had visitors from the government and industry to share information about careers and college degrees in cybersecurity. Students left the program with a certificate of completion, as well as opportunities to be involved with future VMI Cyber Defense Lab events and projects. Light snacks and lunch were provided each day. Students did not need to bring their own computers or other devices, as laptops were provided.  

This week-long workshop was offered at no cost to students and is only available to U.S. citizen or permanent residents. Each day included hands-on immersive activities, intriguing demonstrations and instruction, and gamified learning.