Reflecting on TWC’s 2025 Cybersecurity Accelerator Program

May 8, 2025 The Washington Center

Speakers at TWC's Cybersecurity Accelerator Program

At The Washington Center, we don't just tell you about job and career opportunities – we show you pathways into them via connections and collaboration with individuals who live them now.

Here's what participants in the recent 2025 Cybersecurity Accelerator Program, held in April 2025, experienced at a TWC Short-Term Program: 

The exposure to industry leaders, hands-on learning at the AWS Skills Center and connections with professionals across the U.S. gave me clarity and confidence I couldn't get anywhere else. If given the opportunity to attend, go for it, the ROI is unbeatable, especially with scholarships available."

Kayrene Woods
Senior, Old Dominion University

This Program Completely Shifted My Perspective. The knowledge I gained will help me make smarter security decisions and implement stronger strategies as I grow in my career. Where else can you learn directly from top experts while building a supportive peer community? Whether you’re technical or not—apply immediately. This program gives you the foundation and the edge to advance.”

Gle’Shay Currie
Freshman, City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College 

The Cybersecurity Accelerator Program was a game-changer for me—it bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world skills while opening doors to incredible mentors, peers, and industry leaders. One of the biggest lessons? Stay adaptable. Cybersecurity never stands still—so neither should you."

Victor Ofei
Graduate Student, Lewis University

This program gave me the foundation, skills, and confidence to thrive in cybersecurity—both technically and professionally. If you're thinking about joining, take the leap! Growth happens outside your comfort zone.”

Christian Curley
Junior, Bridgewater State University

The most rewarding part? Real-world policy discussions with experts from U.S. Cyber Command, the Secret Service and CISA. This program didn’t just teach me about cybersecurity—it showed me its impact on national security and society. Engage relentlessly—ask questions, network, and lean into discomfort. This program is a game-changer, whether you’re into tech, policy, or strategy."

Alejandro Cuevas
Sophomore, Florida International University 

2025 Cybersecurity Accelerator Program Participants Feel Better Prepared to Succeed

The Formula for Career Success 

Speakers at TWC's Cybersecurity Accelerator Program
From left to right:

Jeff Le – Managing Principal, 100 Miles

Stefani Jones – Senior Director, Cybersecurity Programs, Aspen Digital

Rob Sheldon – Senior Director, Public Policy & Strategy, Crowdstrike

Joe Catapano – Stakeholder Engagement Director, North America & Global Academia, ICANN

Learn from the Best 

  • Direct mentorship from cybersecurity professionals at top agencies & firms. 
  • Real-world case studies. 

Build a Career-Launching Network 

  • Connect with peers, industry leaders and potential employers. 
  • Many alumni secure jobs, mentorships and collaborations post-program. 

Gain Hands-On, Practical Skills 

  • Beyond theory—simulations, policy discussions and site visits. 
  • Skills that employers value immediately. 

Find Your Niche in Cybersecurity 

Whether you’re into technical security, policy or strategy, this program helps you carve your path. 

About the Author

The Washington Center

The Washington Center is the largest and most established student internship program in Washington, D.C. Since our founding, we've helped more than 60,000 individuals from across the U.S. and around the globe expand their academic pursuits into rewarding jobs and careers.

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