#United States #Winter Park #Full Sail University #IBM Cyber Defense #AWS Cloud Range

Full Sail University Launches Innovative Cyber Defense Range

Full Sail University, located in Winter Park, Florida, is set to enhance its educational offerings with the upcoming launch of the IBM Cyber Defense Range powered by AWS and Cloud Range. This innovative facility is tailored to provide students enrolled in Cybersecurity and Information Technology programs with invaluable hands-on learning opportunities, scheduled to open in April 2026.

A New Era of Cybersecurity Education

This state-of-the-art facility is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application in cybersecurity. Students will engage in realistic attack-and-defense scenarios, allowing them to practice incident response and other essential cybersecurity skills. The facility aims to imitate evolving real-world cybersecurity situations, ensuring that the education provided is in alignment with current industry demands.

Rene Plasencia, Florida lead account partner at IBM, stated, "The IBM Cyber Campus is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world cybersecurity operations. We’re helping to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline and give students valuable hands-on experience."

Collaboration with Industry Leaders

The collaboration between Full Sail University, IBM, AWS, and Cloud Range has culminated in a facility that exemplifies immersive learning. This partnership enables the university to provide a comprehensive security operations center (SOC) training environment, supporting advanced cybersecurity education. As Faisal Hanafi from AWS mentioned, "This collaboration demonstrates how strategic partnerships build the talent pipeline our industry demands."

Features of the Cyber Defense Range

The Cyber Defense Range spans over 1,463 square feet and will be equipped with advanced technologies, featuring:

• - 107.8 square feet of Absen 136" screens
• - 28 fully equipped stations with 27-inch HP monitors and Thunderbolt Hubs for easy connectivity

to student laptops

• - Simulated enterprise and cloud-based network environments
• - Team-based exercises focusing on attack-defense scenarios
• - Advanced modules for malware analysis, threat hunting, incident response, and digital forensics

This immersive facility allows students to practice their skills in a simulated cyber environment, mirroring real-world networks. Here, they can defend systems, respond to cyber incidents, and utilize security tools, all without risking live systems.

Strengthening the Talent Pipeline

Debbie Gordon, CEO of Cloud Range, emphasized the significance of practical experience in preparing future cybersecurity professionals. "Through this collaboration, students will have the opportunity to defend against actual cyber attacks in a simulated environment, ensuring they possess the necessary skills that employers require."

This hands-on immersive approach not only enhances student learning but also plays a crucial role in shaping a talented workforce ready to tackle the challenges of cybersecurity.

Planned Opening Ceremony

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for April 16, 2026, marking the official inauguration of the Full Sail University IBM Cyber Defense Range powered by AWS and Cloud Range. This opening ceremony will also provide an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the cutting-edge educational practices being implemented at the university.

About Full Sail University

Founded in 1979, Full Sail University has established itself as a leader in educational programs related to entertainment media and emerging technologies. With a commitment to innovation, the university prepares students for successful careers in various fields, including Art & Design, Business, Film, Technology, and much more. Over the years, Full Sail has garnered numerous accolades, including being recognized as a leading institution for game design and film education. With a network of over 100,000 graduates worldwide, Full Sail’s impact on the media and technology landscape continues to grow.

In conclusion, the establishment of the IBM Cyber Defense Range powered by AWS and Cloud Range at Full Sail University signifies a pivotal advancement in cybersecurity education, equipping students with relevant industry skills and experiences necessary to excel in today's dynamic digital landscape.