Security
The national securitylandscape is evolving.
In today’s world, winning the technology race isn’t an advantage. It’s an imperative. Technology has dramatically disrupted the defense industry. On a daily basis, we’re seeing advancements to AI and machine learning, AR/VR, robotics, autonomous systems, space technology, quantum computing, and more. And at the same breakneck pace, our adversaries are launching new threats and exposing vulnerabilities.
Factors such as the rapid pace of change, a relentless array of new and emerging cyber threats, and the promise new technologies hold to improve national security, are coalescing to create an undeniable urgency for defense sector innovation.
IMPACT
$550M+
university research portfolio with DOD as a major funder
50%+
from federal agencies, a balanced public and private portfolio
150+
VTNSI interdisciplinary faculty and researchers
9,000
current undergraduates in engineering
900
matriculated students from National Security Education Program
1 of 6
senior military colleges (outside the five federal military academies)
FOCUS
Our strengths match the rapidly evolving needs of the defense community.
Bringing together transdisciplinary researchers, programs, and resources from across the university, the National Security Institute integrates student learning and cutting-edge research at a scale unmatched by other organizations. VTNSI works across complementary departments and divisions—from wireless communications, to quantum computing, to cybersecurity, AI, and everything in between. Our capabilities extend far and wide across Virginia Tech.
VTNSI’s unique value proposition is a flywheel for impact at scale
- Robust work-ready talent pipeline ready to advance national competitiveness
- Use-inspired research and technology development in cutting-edge domains
- Reach and impact that extends beyond technology to inform policy
- Expanding footprint in northern Virginia with a new Innovation Campus focused on high tech
- Specialized computing systems and test beds
- Commitment to innovation through partnerships
Technical areas of expertise:
- Advanced manufacturing of multi-functional systems
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Assured and secure communications
- Blockchain
- Cyber, cybersecurity, OCO
- C4ISR and counter-C4ISR
- Resilient, autonomous systems & missions
- Quantum sensing, secure PNT
- Quantum and heterogeneous computing
- Sea, air, and space vehicles/systems
- Software engineering, AR/VR
- Test-bed design and operation
PARTNER
With more than 37,000 students, Virginia Tech is your go-to recruiting partner for top talent at scale. As a top producer of engineers in the nation, our students are workforce-ready and primed for experiential learning opportunities and internships. Mentor future national security leaders while building a pipeline of newly cleared talent.
We’re advancing innovation and research, and simultaneously creating a safer nation, global economy, and world. VTNSI promotes security through advanced intelligence, next-generation systems, and by securing the connectivity of warfighters while limiting the communication capabilities of adversaries.
Align your brand with one of the most recognizable and respected names in higher education. In the modern economy, brand, talent and technology are the leading sources of competitive advantage. With our support, you’ll build brand loyalty to the next generation of national security leaders, top research faculty and the most passionate alumni base in the nation.
X-LABs are disrupting the way companies tackle strategic objectives. They offer a new framework for collaboration—one where creativity and innovation meet. Our team will help you move toward integrated, purposeful strategies designed to meet the unique needs of your growing company. Together, we’ll spur talent development, research, and innovation.
Patty Tatro
Associate Director of Business Development, LINK, the Center for Advancing Partnerships
Let's connect today.
Every day, our faculty work to meet the pressing needs of the defense and intelligence communities by developing their future workforce and advancing interdisciplinary research, technology and policy. Together, with our partners, we are making the world a safer place.
Virginia Tech offers a full range of ways to engage. Let's build a comprehensive relationship that helps your company meet its strategic goals.