ACE
ACE (Advanced Cyber Education) offers specialized training pathways designed for Cybersecurity professionals and OT professionals
In partnership with

What is ACE?
Powered by Upskill Canada, ACE is a 14-week intensive program that trains cybersecurity professionals and OT/ICS professionals to advance into high-demand roles related to five specializations. With direct input from Canadian employers, the Catalyst developed this program in partnership with our strategic training partner, SANS Institute — the world leader in cybersecurity training.
The Details
- 14-weeks, part-time virtual course
- Five specialization pathways
- Career support and mentorship
- $1,300 + HST registration fee
Applications Open
Program Components
Technical Training & Career Management Coaching
Learners will choose a technical specialization track and register into the designated SANS course. They will engage in job search coaching with access to a library of career resources.
Technical Certification
Learners will take the final examination to earn the GIAC certification associated with the respective SANS course.
Professional Skills Training & Experiential Learning
Learners will participate in Catalyst Cyber Range simulation scenarios, and professional development seminars/workshops with industry facilitators.
Specialization Pathways
ACE applicants have the option to select from five specialization pathways.
INTAKES
MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST 2025
Defensive Security & Incident Response
Designed for Cyber professionals with some prior experience in defensive security in a SOC environment who are looking to advance into senior defensive roles.
INTAKES
MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST 2025
Digital Forensics and Threat Hunting
Ideal for: Cyber professionals with in-depth experience in defensive security who are looking to advance into senior defensive roles, incident response, threat researcher or forensics positions.
INTAKES
MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST 2025
Cloud Security
Created for Cyber professionals with prior experience with cloud products looking to build expertise in securing cloud environments. Note: Prior experience working with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is recommended.
INTAKES
MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST 2025
Offensive Security
Ideal for Cyber professionals with in-depth experience in defensive security, looking to progress into offensive roles or security testing and assessment roles.
INTAKES
MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST 2025
ICS/ OT Security
Designed for individuals who work in control system environments. Participants come from four key domains: IT (including operational technology support), IT security (including OT security), engineering, and corporate or industry standards.
Career Guidance & Alumni Network
As an ACE student, you will have access to our dedicated Career Support team providing you with individualized Career Coaching.
They will work with you throughout the program to choose a cybersecurity career path, build your resume, prepare for interviews and land a job. As a Catalyst alumni, you will be joining one of the foremost networks of cybersecurity professionals in Canada, while also gaining access to community networking events and career building workshops.
Our graduates have gone on to work at the following companies:



















