Developing the Next Generation of National Security Innovators
SJSU NSIN brings together students from engineering, computer science, policy, and business to tackle real national security challenges. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we occupy a unique position at the crossroads of cutting-edge technology and the defense ecosystem — giving our members unparalleled access to the people and problems shaping the future of national security.
Our approach is hands-on: we connect students directly with defense industry partners and government agencies to work on real-world problems. Through speaker events, hackathons, externships, and policy discussions, we build the workforce pipeline that national security demands — training students who can think critically, build rapidly, and operate at the intersection of technology and strategy.
"At the intersection of Silicon Valley and national security, the next breakthrough is waiting."
Throughout the year
Programs run across fall and spring semesters, with policy discussions year-round.
Speaker Series
Defense-tech founders, intelligence community veterans, and policymakers share how technology is reshaping national security. Runs throughout the fall semester.
Government & Industry Projects Begin
Students get paired with defense companies and government agencies for hands-on project work. Modeled after Stanford's Gordian Knot Center programs. Runs fall and spring semesters.
Policy & Strategy Discussions
Interdisciplinary forums on AI governance, export controls, and national security strategy. Open to all majors — engineering, political science, business.
Hackathon
Build working prototypes for real Department of Defense challenge problems. Prepares students for Stanford's Hacking for Defense (H4D) program which runs every spring quarter.
Speaker Series Continues
Second semester of speaker events with a focus on defense innovation, venture capital in defense-tech, and career paths in national security.