Shenandoah Hosts Fourth Tech 4 Troops Workshop For Local Veterans
The event is the product of a collaboration between the HIVE and Northern Shenandoah Valley CVEB
Shenandoah University’s Hub for Innovators, Veterans and Entrepreneurs (HIVE) recently welcomed over 15 local veterans for Tech 4 Troops, a transformative, hands-on technology workshop, in October in the Hazel-Pruitt Armory. It was the HIVE’s fourth time hosting Tech 4 Troops, which is designed to enhance digital literacy and provide direct access to essential tech resources.
The day began with a financial wellness session hosted by representatives from Navy Federal Credit Union, who offered valuable financial literacy guidance tailored to veterans and military families. Following the morning presentation, the Tech 4 Troops team led an intensive “Computer Basics 101” instructional workshop. Instructors and volunteers worked one-on-one with attendees, walking them through foundational digital skills and setting up free, refurbished laptops equipped with one-year warranties for every participant who completed the training.
The recurring success of the Tech 4 Troops events stems from a dedicated partnership between the HIVE and the Northern Shenandoah Valley Community Veterans Engagement Board.
“Seeing our partnership with Shenandoah University’s HIVE and Tech 4 Troops reach this milestone fourth workshop is incredibly rewarding,” said Ashley Moslak, chair of the Northern Shenandoah Valley CVEB. “By combining our resources, we are providing our local veterans with tangible tools, digital literacy and a supportive community network that makes a lasting difference in their everyday lives.”
“Our partnership with Northern Shenandoah Valley CVEB and Tech For Troops embodies what the HIVE was built to do, serving as a bridge between education, community, and opportunity for our veteran population,” said Patricia Young, executive director of the HIVE and director of industry and external engagement.
The day’s impact extended well beyond laptop distribution. Following the workshop and lunch, Young guided Tech 4 Troops leadership, including President and CEO Mark Casper, on a comprehensive tour of the HIVE.
During a discussion with Shenandoah Director of Esports Zander Merle-Smith ’21, MBA, the leadership team explored creative ways to connect veterans through gaming. The team discussed potential initiatives, including casual esports socials, virtual gaming competitions and community events in the university’s Esports Arena, to foster camaraderie and reduce isolation among veterans.
“I’m blown away by what has been created here,” Casper said. “We love the idea of being a part of this ecosystem and exploring how gaming competitions and community events can further support our veterans.”
Plans are already underway for future seasonal workshops and expanding cross-disciplinary projects through collaboration between the HIVE, Northern Shenandoah Valley CVEB and Tech 4 Troops.
