The Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center (GCITC) at Augusta University is proud to welcome the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) as its newest resident partner, expanding its growing ecosystem of organizations focused on innovation, technology, workforce development and real-world problem solving.
This new partnership brings together one of the nation’s leading conservation nonprofits with Georgia’s premier cybersecurity and innovation hub, creating opportunities where advanced technology supports environmental stewardship, research and data-driven solutions.
Strengthening Georgia’s Cybersecurity and Innovation Ecosystem
The Georgia Cyber Center serves as a collaborative environment where government, military, academic and private sector partners work together to address cybersecurity challenges and emerging technology needs. By housing diverse resident partners under one roof, the GCITC helps strengthen Georgia’s position as a national leader in cybersecurity, innovation and workforce development.
Welcoming organizations from outside traditional tech sectors further enhances cross-industry collaboration and expands the real-world applications of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analytics and IT infrastructure.
“At the heart of the NWTF’s mission is a commitment to stewardship, education and innovation,” said Eric Toler, Executive Director of the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center. “We’re excited to partner with an organization that has demonstrated long-standing success in conservation, and we look forward to exploring how technology and data-driven solutions can enhance the remarkable work the NWTF has already achieved.”
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Founded in 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to wildlife conservation and the preservation of hunting heritage. With more than 250,000 members and volunteers, the NWTF has played a critical role in restoring wild turkey populations and improving millions of acres of wildlife habitat across North America.
In recent years, the organization has invested millions of dollars in wildlife research, habitat management and conservation initiatives, working across boundaries to promote healthy forests, clean water, resilient communities and sustainable recreational opportunities.
Leveraging Technology for Conservation and Research
Through its residency at the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center, the National Wild Turkey Federation will collaborate with students, researchers and industry partners to explore how technology can enhance conservation efforts and operational capabilities.
Key focus areas are:
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Data analytics for environmental and habitat management
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Artificial intelligence and conservation research
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Cybersecurity and advanced IT infrastructure
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Real-time data collection and monitoring
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Education, mentorship and workforce engagement
These efforts support both organizations’ shared commitment to innovation, education, and long-term impact.
Creating Opportunities for Students and Workforce Development
A core mission of the GCITC is building Georgia’s cybersecurity and technology workforce. Partnerships like this provide hands-on learning opportunities for students while connecting organizations with emerging talent and research expertise.
By engaging with Augusta University students and the broader GCITC community, the NWTF will help inspire the next generation of professionals while advancing conservation through modern technological solutions.
“We are truly excited about setting up a satellite office for the NWTF at the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center,” said NWTF co-CEO Jason Burckhalter. “This partnership opens doors to new opportunities where conservation expertise can intersect with advanced technology, from data analytics to real-time environmental assessment, expanding the reach and impact of our mission.”
Advancing Innovation Through Resident Partnerships
The Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center continues to grow as a hub where cybersecurity, technology, education and industry intersect. Each resident partner contributes to a dynamic ecosystem focused on collaboration, research, workforce development and economic growth.
By welcoming the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Georgia Cyber Center demonstrates how innovation extends beyond traditional technology sectors, applying cybersecurity and data-driven tools to solve complex challenges in conservation and environmental management.
To learn more about the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center and its resident partners, visit gacybercenter.org/partners.
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