ICS Security Training – Introduction
From nuclear plants to public transit systems, Canada’s infrastructure relies on Industrial Control Systems (ICS)—specialized digital systems that run physical operations. But these systems are increasingly under threat. In 2024, ICS-targeted malware like PIPEDREAM and TRITON surged across North America. ICT’s Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity includes ICS security as a core focus, preparing graduates to defend critical infrastructure against attacks that could endanger millions.
What Are Industrial Control Systems?
ICS refers to a range of systems used to monitor and control industrial processes. This includes:
- SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)
- PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers)
- DCS (Distributed Control Systems)
These are used in industries like energy, water treatment, manufacturing, and transportation.
Because ICS systems are often older and were not designed with cybersecurity in mind, they’re vulnerable to modern attacks that can:
- Shut down power grids
- Poison water supplies
- Disrupt oil pipelines
- Endanger public safety through critical service interruptions
ICT’s ICS Security Training Curriculum
The program covers the full range of ICS defense strategies, including:
- ISA/IEC 62443 Compliance: Global cybersecurity standards for industrial automation isa.org
- SCADA Security Protocols: Protecting and segmenting operational technology (OT)
- Threat Intelligence for ICS: Monitoring APT groups targeting infrastructure
- Incident Response: Containing and recovering from ICS-specific breaches
- Air-Gapped Security Design: Creating isolated, secure networks for critical systems
Students work on virtual environments that simulate real ICS networks, including hydroelectric plants and transit systems.
Hands-On Labs and Red Teaming
Students participate in labs where they:
- Analyze infected PLCs
- Simulate gas pipeline breaches
- Build firewall rules for segmented ICS networks
- Practice forensics on ICS malware traces like Industroyer or Stuxnet
- Work in red team/blue team exercises mimicking real threat actors like APT33 or Sandworm
This practical experience sets graduates apart in a highly specialized and high-paying field.
High-Demand Career Paths in ICS Security
Graduates can work as:
- ICS/OT Security Analyst
- Critical Infrastructure Cyber Specialist
- SCADA Forensics Investigator
- Defense Contractor (cyber ops for DND or Public Safety Canada)
- Compliance Auditor for energy and utility providers
Salaries in this field often exceed $150,000, and demand is growing rapidly due to new government funding in national cyber defense.
Conclusion
Protecting critical infrastructure requires more than just IT knowledge—it demands specialized expertise in industrial systems, threat intelligence, and operational continuity. ICT’s Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity trains students to become defenders of the systems that power Canada. If you’re interested in cybersecurity that makes a national impact, this is where you start.
