One of MNIT’s top priorities is working with partners to secure the state.

On Wednesday, May 16, MNIT Commissioner Johanna Clyborne spoke at Metropolitan State University’s ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of their new MN Cyber Range.

“Simply put, we’re here tonight because cybersecurity needs to remain a top priority for Minnesota. Minnesota needs opportunities for advanced training for cybersecurity staff to promote upskilling to meet emerging threats in an ever-changing landscape.”

Commissioner Clyborne

The MN Cyber Range is a simulation and training platform for instructing and certifying cybersecurity experts. It’s designed to deliver realistic training scenarios to help trainees prepare for challenges that they could face during a cyber-attack, using up-to-date tools in a controlled, safe environment.

“While the current actions being taken by the state of Minnesota are important, especially in the realm of cyber security and workforce development, we need creative solutions such as the cyber range.”

Commissioner Clyborne

After a welcome from Metropolitan State University President Ginny Arthur, the ribbon cutting program continued with remarks from government leaders, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, Minnesota state representative Tony Albright, and Major General John Jensen. Afterwards, attendees got to see a short demo of a Cyber Range simulation in action.

Minnesota’s Chief Information Security Officer, Aaron Call, sits on the Minnesota Cyber Advisory Board, which provides guidance for MN Cyber Range activities.