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AUGUSTA — The University of Maine at Augusta officially opened its Maine Cyber Range Aug. 16, which is designed to serve as a training center for both students and professionals. U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy and Cyberbit COO Gilad Weitman joined UMA President Rebecca Wyke for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
King is chair of the recently launched bipartisan Cyberspace Solarium Commission, which seeks to build a consensus approach to defend the United States in cyberspace, including the creation of a cyber-doctrine to meet this new age of conflict and threats.
“As our 21st century world becomes increasingly interconnected, we need a new generation of workers who are prepared to help Maine people embrace the new possibilities and defend themselves against the new threats that come with our smartphones, tablets and connected appliances and vehicles,” he said. “I remain concerned that a future attack on America could result in a digital disaster at the hands of a bad actor hacking our vital infrastructure. Through hands-on education and cutting-edge research, the Maine Cyber Range will be an asset not only to Maine students, but also to local businesses and organizations as we work to navigate this newly digital world together.”
The Maine Cyber Range, powered by Cyberbit Range technology, is a training and simulation center providing hands‐on experience for cybersecurity degree students at UMA and integrating Cyberbit Range simulation scenarios into the cybersecurity curriculum. The MCR will enhance cybersecurity education at UMA, producing better-prepared students available to enter into the growing computer and information technology positions that require a background in cybersecurity.
Additionally, the MCR will be a state-of-the-art training center for current information technology and cybersecurity professionals at large and small businesses and government agencies seeking realistic and cutting-edge techniques for defending against malicious cyber-attacks. Training opportunities include large‐scale exercises and capture the flag environments. Students and trainees will face simulated live cyber-attacks that will allow them to build their skills on how to best detect, stop, and remediate cybersecurity incidents.
“In keeping with our educational philosophy, the Cyberbit technology provides an immersive, hands on experience that simulates a real-world Security Operations Center and leverages real-world security and network infrastructure,” said Henry Felch, UMA associate professor of cybersecurity and computer information systems. “Trainees use market-leading, commercially licensed security products, while a sophisticated attack generator runs a wide range of attacks providing the disruptive cybersecurity experience that professionals in these positions face every day.”
“The opening of this training center continues UMA’s mission of providing quality educational opportunities that help fill workforce needs with well-trained graduates for in demand, highly skilled positions,” said Wyke. “The Maine Cyber Range training center will also be available to businesses, organizations, and government entities seeking to advance the skills of their current employees and enhance their current cybersecurity efforts.”
The Maine Cyber Range is designed to be a resource to all universities within the University of Maine System, and colleges, municipalities and businesses in Maine and across New England.
For more information about the Maine Cyber Range, visit UMAcyber@maine.edu.
PHOTO: The ribbon was cut on the new Maine Cyber Range at UMA Aug. 16. From left, Cyberbit COO Gilad Weitman, UMA President Rebecca Wyke, professor Henry Felch, U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, and UMS Chancellor Dannel Malloy. (UMA photo)
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