BCIT Bootcamp Trains Veterans for Cybersecurity Roles Amid Rising Threats

• •BCIT's bootcamp trains veterans for critical infrastructure cybersecurity roles.
• •The program addresses the urgent need for professionals amid rising ransomware threats.
• •Participants gain hands-on experience in defending against cyber threats to essential services.

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is conducting its fifth Veterans Industrial Cybersecurity Bootcamp from July 13 to 17, 2026, aimed at training veterans for cybersecurity roles in critical infrastructure. The program is free and focuses on industrial control systems, addressing the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals as Canada faces increasing ransomware threats. Over 50 veterans have completed the program since its inception in 2022, with participants gaining skills to defend against cyber threats to essential services like energy and healthcare. The bootcamp is supported by Tech Vets Canada and CyberCatalyst, providing mentorship and hands-on training. Recent ransomware incidents, including attacks on hospitals, highlight the urgency of this training initiative. The program includes both online preparatory work and immersive lab experiences at BCIT's facilities. Graduates can pursue roles such as Industrial Network Technician and Cybersecurity Analyst.