Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
- More than 340 million people were impacted by cyberattacks last year.
- SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College (FMCC) has opened a state-of-the-art Cyber Range facility to train cybersecurity experts.
More than 340 million people were impacted by cyberattacks last year, with the number of attacks increasing by 72% compared to the previous year. In response to these alarming trends, SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College (FMCC) has established the first-of-its-kind Cyber Range facility in New York. With immersive training based on real-world events, students like Perry Mitchell and Jake McGann are gaining hands-on experience by detecting and responding to simulated cyber threats.
The Cyber Range facility is equipped with changing lighting, sound, and graphics to provide a lifelike experience for students. FMCC Technology Division chair Martin Waffle, who is a former student turned instructor, highlights the growing demand for cybersecurity experts globally, with projections of a 32% increase in available jobs over the next decade.
Employers are specifically seeking candidates with practical experience, making the hands-on training provided by the Cyber Range crucial for students’ professional development. Collaborations with industry giants like IBM and Amazon Web Services further enhance students’ connections and preparedness for the workforce. The median salary for cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue rising, making it a lucrative and high-demand field for prospective students.
FMCC President Greg Truckenmiller emphasizes the importance of simulation laboratories in attracting more individuals to the cybersecurity industry. The Cyber Range at FMCC aims to provide a supportive environment for students to enhance their skills and pursue career opportunities in the rapidly expanding field of cybersecurity.
