CHARLESTON, W.Va –
The West Virginia National Guard’s Army Interagency Training and Education Center Critical Infrastructure Protection Battalion stepped into the national spotlight by hosting its first-ever Critical Infrastructure Protection Workshop, April 8-9 at Camp Dawson, in Kingwood, West Virginia The event brought together representatives from over 37 states and territories, numerous federal agencies, and all levels of the Department of Defense to address the escalating threats facing essential U.S. public utilities, resources, and cybersecurity systems our country now faces.
The increasing vulnerability of critical infrastructure – once considered a remote concern – is recognized as a growing threat; a threat the WVNG’s AITEC CIP BN is taking seriously. By spearheading this two-day workshop, WVNG’s AITEC CIP Battalion brought together and facilitated crucial dialogue and cooperation among key stakeholders, among state and federal partners, including the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Northern Command, 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,” stated 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.”
What initially began as a as a National Guard-focused exercise has turned into a groundbreaking workshop, bringing together different agencies who have previously worked separately, boosting collaboration and communication between DoD, Interagency Partners, State representatives, and Infrastructure owners to ensure a unified response framework during any national emergency that may arise. These efforts ensure our country and states are safeguarding systems such as the power that keeps our hospitals operational and the water that helps sustain our cities.
“Critical infrastructure encompasses all the essential elements of modern life, including telecommunications, water, and power,” Nichols explained. “A significant disruption in any of these areas could have cascading consequences across our entire society.”
The participation of West Virginia Emergency Management personnel highlighting the critical civilian-military partnerships needed for swift and effective emergency responses capabilities. Workshop sessions focused on prioritizing continuity of operations and addressing potential scenarios that, while previously have seemed unthinkable but are now very much in the realm of possibility.
For years, the WVNG’s AITEC CIP BN has traditionally focused on securing military installations. However, their mission has expanded significantly to address broader civilian dependencies, including power grids and water supplies that support both civilian populations and military operations.
“This workshop highlighted West Virginia’s significant role in national security,” Nichols concluded. “By convening these key stakeholders, we aim to cultivate sustained collaboration and ultimately strengthen our collective ability to protect our communities and critical resources.”