Hands-On Cyber-Physical Systems Training Returns to ICS Cybersecurity Conference

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Hands-On Cyber-Physical Systems Training Returns to ICS Cybersecurity This October, a specialized training program focused on cyber-physical systems will resume as part of the 25th anniversary celebration of ICS Cybersecurity. The initiative, developed by SecurityWeek in collaboration with MTSI, offers an immersive experience designed to deepen understanding of how adversaries exploit vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.

Cyber Attack Methods (CAM) Program Overview

The course, titled Cyber Attack Methods (CAM), emphasizes practical, hands-on learning to simulate real-world attack scenarios. Cyber-physical systems integrate digital technologies with physical infrastructure, making them critical targets for malicious actors. Successful attacks on these environments can lead to severe consequences, including disruptions to safety protocols, operational failures, and financial losses.

Training Structure and Objectives

The CAM program addresses this by placing participants in the role of attackers, enabling them to explore system vulnerabilities and execute simulated missions. The three-day curriculum, scheduled for October 6–8 at the W Nashville, includes a virtual environment where students engage in system discovery, vulnerability exploitation, and mission-driven attack execution.

Unlike theoretical discussions, the course requires direct interaction with tools and systems, allowing participants to observe the full attack lifecycle. The goal is not to train individuals as hackers but to equip professionals with insights into adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures.

Key Learning Objectives

Key learning objectives include analyzing how attackers identify and exploit system weaknesses, understanding the interplay between technical decisions and security resilience, and evaluating mitigation strategies. The program is tailored for a broad audience, including systems engineers, developers, and security professionals, rather than solely cybersecurity teams.

Early involvement of engineers and developers in security planning is highlighted as crucial for reducing attack surfaces and improving system robustness. No prior cybersecurity expertise is required, though familiarity with Linux command-line interfaces and programming concepts is recommended to maximize engagement with the course material.

Course Leadership and Costs

The training is led by MTSI’s cyber-physical systems team, which has extensive experience in penetration testing, reverse engineering, and security research across critical infrastructure sectors. The $3,995 registration fee covers access to a self-contained virtual machine containing all course materials, a certificate of completion, and extended access to ICS Cybersecurity resources.

Participants must bring an Intel-based laptop capable of running the virtual environment, as ARM-based devices are incompatible. The program is restricted to U.S. citizens, with limited enrollment available.

Schedule and Accessibility

The CAM course follows a structured schedule, beginning with a full day of instruction on October 6, followed by half-day sessions on October 7 and 8. This format allows attendees to engage with the broader ICS Cybersecurity event. The initiative underscores the growing need for proactive security education in industries reliant on cyber-physical systems.

By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, the program aims to foster a deeper understanding of adversarial strategies and enhance defensive capabilities across critical infrastructure sectors.

“The CAM program addresses this by placing participants in the role of attackers, enabling them to explore system vulnerabilities and execute simulated missions.”