Facility will foster learning opportunities that combine advanced technical training with rigorous analysis, critical thinking and problem-solving.
Utica University faculty and students, along with dignitaries and industry partners, marked the opening of the University’s new state-of-the-art Cyber Range with a Wednesday, Feb. 25 ribbon-cutting ceremony. A U.S. Secret Service Assistant Director, a New York State Chief Cyber Officer, and an Air Force Research Lab Information Directorate Deputy Director were among the contingent of leading cyber professionals on hand to celebrate.
The Cyber Range will foster learning opportunities that combine advanced technical training with rigorous analysis, critical thinking and problem-solving, intentionally integrating specialized skills with their real-world application. It is a controlled, interactive space where cybersecurity students can learn how to detect and mitigate cyber-attacks with the same cutting-edge tools, techniques, and strategies currently used in professional settings around the world. Utica students will collaborate with cybersecurity professionals to practice responding to various security threats, test incident plans, and work on a response team.
“In many respects, this facility – and more importantly the learning that will take place within it – is a microcosm of the vision we hold for not only our cybersecurity programs, but for the University’s educational mission moving forward,” says Utica University President Stephanie Nesbitt. “The opening of advanced facilities like the Cyber Range underscores our commitment to providing relevant, career-centered education through experiential learning that is firmly rooted in the application of high-level analytic skills and a deep understanding of the world we share.”
Located on the second floor of Bull Hall, the 1,300-square foot Cyber Range features 20 mobile computing stations that allow for individual and team activities. Conversational-style seating creates a more personal, intimate setting between students and faculty.
“Utica University has always been at the forefront of cybersecurity education, and (the Cyber Range) will be instrumental in teaching the next generation of cybersecurity specialists,” says Leslie Corbo, associate professor and director of cybersecurity. “Our students will be introduced to the latest cyber threats confronting organizations today and methods to mitigate the damage. Knowledge from the classroom will be directly applied to the realistic challenges facing the cybersecurity landscape today.”
The vision for the Cyber Range aligns with the teaching mission of Utica’s cybersecurity program: empowering students with both the knowledge and the practical skills to succeed and advance in the cybersecurity field.
"This facility – and more importantly the learning that will take place within it – is a microcosm of the vision we hold for not only our cybersecurity programs, but for the University’s educational mission moving forward."
“What the Cyber Range is going to allow us to do is provide students unique hands-on, practical exercises, taking real world scenarios and giving students the opportunity to tangibly work through and resolve challenging situations like ransomware attacks in a safe space dedicated to technical learning,” says John Oevering, professor of practice of cybersecurity.
“Utica University cybersecurity graduates leave with hands-on experience and practical expertise in real-world cyber defense, investigative tools, and emerging technologies. They are prepared not only to prevent and mitigate cyber incidents, but to deliver immediate value to employers from day one,” says Kyo Dolan, assistant director – Office of Field Operations at the U.S. Secret Service and a Utica University graduate. “This level of readiness is truly a game changer. The commitment to innovation that the Cyber Range represents positions students to confidently enter the next phase of their professional journeys. I’m excited to see the lasting impact that I’m certain the Cyber Range will have on students, as they are the next generation of cyber warriors who will help safeguard our nation.”
The facility, coupled with the University’s industry partnerships, will provide additional opportunities for students to gain experience and work alongside professionals from federal, state and regional law enforcement agencies.
“The Cyber Range will bring industry into the learning space, offering our students unique opportunities to collaborate and problem solve with cybersecurity professionals as they practice responding to various security threats, test incident plans, and work as part of a response team,” President Nesbitt says.
The project was supported in part by grants from the George I. Alden Trust and the Fred L. Emerson Foundation.
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