APRIL 23, 2025 – The West Virginia Army National Guard recently hosted its first workshop to address possible threats to the country’s public utilities, resources and cybersecurity systems.
The Guard’s Army Interagency Training and Education Center Critical Infrastructure Protection Battalion held the April 8-9 event at Camp Dawson in Kingwood, W.Va. Representatives from more than 37 states and territories, federal agencies, and the Department of Defense attended the Critical Infrastructure Protection Workshop.
The vulnerability of critical infrastructure is a threat the Guard’s AITEC CIP Battalion takes seriously. The workshop facilitated dialogue and cooperation among state and federal partners, including the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Northern Command, the National Guard Bureau, National Laboratories and other states’ National Guard units.
“We are witnessing a concerning rise in attacks targeting essential services like power grids and water systems,” said Col. Gina Nichols, WVNG’s AITEC brigade commander. “An adversary targeting our infrastructure doesn’t need conventional military force; disruption of these systems could cripple our nation from within.”
The workshop, which began as a Guard-focused exercise, brought together agencies that have previously worked separately to ensure a unified response during a national emergency. These efforts help secure the safety of systems such as the power that keeps hospitals operational and the water that sustains cities.
“Critical infrastructure encompasses all the essential elements of modern life, including telecommunications, water, and power,” Nichols said. “A significant disruption in any of these areas could have cascading consequences across our entire society.”
The participation of West Virginia Emergency Management personnel highlighted the critical civilian-military partnerships needed for swift and effective emergency responses.
Workshop sessions focused on prioritizing continuity of operations and addressing potential scenarios.
For years, the WVNG’s AITEC CIP Battalion focused on securing military installations. Its mission has expanded to address broader civilian dependencies, including power grids and water supplies.
“This workshop highlighted West Virginia’s significant role in national security,” Nichols said. “By convening these key stakeholders, we aim to cultivate sustained collaboration and ultimately strengthen our collective ability to protect our communities and critical resources.”
https://www.facebook.com/TheNationalGuard
By Erica Bodker
West Virginia National Guard