Donor created space enables cybersecurity training for students and industry
Enter the SAIT Cyber Range and you might think you’re on the bridge of the Starship Enterprise or the command centre of a SpaceX launch — lights flashing, screens flickering — it has the immersive feeling of a science fiction setting. But it’s not sci-fi, it’s SAIT’s latest real-world learning environment located at SAIT Downtown.
To coincide with the start of Cybersecurity Month, SAIT officially opened its new cyber range — a high-impact, immersive cybersecurity training facility on Oct. 1, 2025. 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.
“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 creation and launch of SAIT’s SADT and the cyber range are the direct result of David Bissett’s ground-breaking $30-million gift in 2019. What started as his vision to prepare students for the digital demands of tomorrow’s workforce has built this space where students and industry can come together to explore cybersecurity solutions.
Less than a week after the official opening, SAIT hosted several industry representatives for a tour of the new facility. Created with industry partnership in mind, companies can use the facility and provide access to cybersecurity training opportunities for their employees.
“We know cybersecurity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Within the cyber range, our scenarios can be customized to address specific challenges, compliance requirements, and security objectives depending on the industry,” shares Heather Domzal, Director of Industry Engagement, SAIT. “The cyber range is how SAIT partners with industry and organizations to meet this moment: developing cyber defenders and digital leaders who will protect and propel Alberta’s growth over the next decade and beyond.”
Interested in learning more about cybersecurity and what the cyber range has to offer? Find out more with SAIT’s Corporate Training opportunities.
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SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.