Cybersecurity Center

The new Minot State Cybersecurity Center is a collaborative classroom that encourages team interaction for the creation and optimization of computing systems networks. Groups of four to six will work within a simulative environment, configuring sub-networks and systems to mirror real-world scenarios. This hands-on learning extends to virtual collaboration, with students engaging in video conferencing with remote learners to facilitate participation in tasks and discussion for those who might already be working full-time or active-duty military members.

This will create an environment that allows for a dynamic learning experience, where theoretical knowledge is applied in practical settings. It will instill critical thinking skills and a focus on collaboration, communication, and creativity — skills essential for success in the tech industry. The classroom's lab areas, designed for both technical and non-technical roles, support a diverse range of instructional modalities and collaborative methods. This innovative approach will focus on reducing costs using instructor-coordinated micro-servers rather than a large-scale computing cluster.

To achieve this collaborative classroom space, mobile furniture will ensure multiple configurations within the space to accommodate a wide range of class sizes. Specialized GRIDD flooring will allow sections to be lifted to expose cable trays. A full technological environment of segmented networks will provide remote students the same access as on-campus students. Each student cluster will feature a multi-monitor workstation and multiple systems for each student cluster to work collaboratively or competitively, depending on the scenario. Micro servers will be utilized to host virtual systems along with multimedia support. The modern classroom will also have access to a variety of physical electronic devices including SCADA control systems typically seen in factories and other facilities, both consumer and business facing smart devices, penetration testing tools like hardware keyloggers, software defined radio tools, and devices for conducting network-based man-in-the-middle attacks.