Full Sail University has announced the upcoming launch of its advanced cybersecurity training facility, the IBM Cyber Defense Range powered by Amazon Web Services and Cloud Range, marking a significant step toward bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world cyber operations. Scheduled to open in April 2026, the initiative will provide students with immersive, hands-on experience in simulated environments that closely mirror real-world cyber threats and enterprise security challenges.
As cyber threats continue to evolve rapidly, organizations increasingly demand professionals who can respond effectively in high-pressure scenarios. Therefore, Full Sail University has taken a proactive approach by integrating experiential learning into its cybersecurity and IT programs. Students enrolled in the Cybersecurity Bachelor of Science Completion and Information Technology Bachelor of Science programs will actively participate in live attack-and-defense simulations, incident response exercises, and real-time threat analysis, ensuring they gain practical skills beyond theoretical knowledge.
Moreover, the facility leverages IBM’s Cyber Campus capabilities along with AWS’s scalable and secure cloud infrastructure to deliver fully functional Security Operations Center (SOC) environments. As a result, learners can engage with enterprise-grade tools and workflows, enabling them to understand how modern cybersecurity teams operate in complex, cloud-driven ecosystems. Additionally, the platform aligns with established frameworks such as the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), further strengthening its industry relevance.
“The IBM Cyber Campus is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world cybersecurity operations,” said Rene Plasencia, Florida lead account partner at IBM. We’re helping to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline and give students some hands-on experience in realistic, enterprise-scale cyber environments.”
Furthermore, the Cyber Defense Range introduces a highly interactive learning environment within the university’s Emerging Tech Wing. The space includes over 1,400 square feet of advanced infrastructure, high-resolution display systems, and multiple workstations equipped with enterprise-grade hardware. Students will also engage in team-based exercises, malware analysis, digital forensics simulations, and threat hunting activities, all within controlled yet realistic cyber environments.
In addition, the initiative emphasizes workforce readiness by preparing students for real-world cybersecurity roles. By combining academic instruction with hands-on simulations, the program ensures graduates develop critical thinking, collaboration, and technical expertise required in today’s threat landscape.
“Our facility has been carefully curated in collaboration with our partners at IBM to enhance the depth of knowledge our students acquire while at Full Sail,” said Haifa Maamar, PhD., Executive Director of Emerging Technologies at Full Sail University. “The Full Sail University IBM Cyber Defense Range powered by AWS and Cloud Range strategically connects academic instruction with real-world, industry-specific application, developing the technical expertise, critical thinking, and collaborative capabilities required in today’s complex security environment. It represents a significant milestone for our Emerging Technologies programs and directly supports workforce readiness by creating clear pathways for our graduates to enter the cybersecurity industry.”
At the same time, industry partners highlight the broader impact of such collaborations. By leveraging cloud-native technologies and simulation platforms, the initiative enables institutions to scale training while maintaining realism and relevance.
“AWS proudly powers the Full Sail University IBM Cyber Defense Range, expanding access to world-class training that develops job-ready cybersecurity and IT professionals. As emerging technologies reshape our digital landscape and cyber threats grow more sophisticated, this collaboration demonstrates how strategic partnerships build the talent pipeline our industry demands,” said Faisal Hanafi, Director of Education and U.S. State and Local Government at AWS.
“Preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals requires more than classroom instruction,” said Debbie Gordon, CEO of Cloud Range. “Through this collaboration with IBM, AWS, and Full Sail University, students will have the opportunity to defend against actual cyber attacks in the simulated environment to develop the practical skills that future employers require. Hands-on experience in realistic cyber range environments ensures graduates enter the workforce with more than just certifications; they are equipped with real-world skills that align with what employers need today.”
Ultimately, this launch reflects a growing industry shift toward experiential cybersecurity education. By investing in advanced simulation environments and strategic partnerships, Full Sail University is not only enhancing its academic offerings but also actively contributing to the development of a skilled, job-ready cybersecurity workforce capable of tackling modern digital threats.
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