The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) has officially opened its new cyber range a high-impact, immersive cybersecurity training facility located at SAIT Downtown. One of the few cyber ranges in Alberta accessible to students, professionals and industry partners, the facility includes defender and attacker rooms, a central command centre and more than 50 customizable simulations challenging users to think critically and act decisively in high-pressure environments.
Supported by a significant philanthropic gift and launched as part of SAIT's Real Futures campaign, the cyber range advances digital technology education and workforce preparedness in Alberta amid rising cybercrime.
"By embedding this facility in Calgary's core and expanding access, SAIT is fast-tracking the development and growth of critical cybersecurity skills across Alberta for our students and our many partners," says Dr. David Ross, SAIT President and CEO. "Cybersecurity is now at the core of every business and is no longer optional. This shared space fosters collaboration, innovation and resilience across sectors, building the skills needed to secure Alberta's future."
The urgency is clear. Calgary Police Services reported a 54% surge in cybercrime in 2024 compared to the previous year. Province-wide, Statistics Canada recorded more than 12,000 cybercrimes in 2023 - a 24% increase from 2022. The financial implications are also mounting. Canadian businesses spent $1.2 billion recovering from cyber incidents in 2023, double the cost from the year prior.
"The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been greater," says Cherie Bowker, Dean, SAIT's School for Advanced Digital Technology. "As we continue to elevate our cybersecurity program offerings, this new SAIT facility is exactly what Calgary needs to continue to further establish our reputation as a leader in advanced digital technology education."
The launch of the cyber range marks a significant milestone for SAIT Downtown and the School for Advanced Digital Technology. A $30-million gift from Calgary business leader and philanthropist David Bissett in 2019 enabled SAIT to prepare students for the digital demands of tomorrow's workforce, making both the school and the cyber range possible.
In 2024, SAIT announced a vision to evolve and expand its presence downtown with a multi-faceted central location where education can meet industry in a space that provides closer connection to partners. Today, that vision is complete.
