Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Community-driven information security conference serving Saskatchewan’s cybersecurity professionals, students, and enthusiasts
- Technical and strategic sessions covering AI in security, OT/ICS security, threat detection, and risk and compliance
- Part of the global Security BSides movement, emphasizing independent research and practical lessons
- Addresses professional challenges including burnout in cybersecurity and staying current with emerging threats
About BSides Saskatoon
BSides Saskatoon (BSidesYXE) is a grassroots information security conference held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The event is part of the global Security BSides movement, which provides a platform for security research, practical lessons, and new ideas outside mainstream conference circuits. BSidesYXE focuses on building the local infosec community through independent talks, networking opportunities, and open speaker submissions that welcome both new and experienced voices.
Technical and Strategic Topics
The conference programme spans both technical and strategic aspects of cybersecurity. Sessions address information security research, cybercrime, threat detection, and security operations. The event also covers governance topics including audit, risk and compliance, and technology governance. Emerging areas such as AI and security, AI-assisted detection, and OT/ICS security feature in the programme, reflecting current industry concerns around operational technology environments and artificial intelligence applications in security contexts.
Speakers come from diverse professional backgrounds including security research, consulting, and executive advisory roles. Technologies referenced in the programme include Microsoft Defender XDR and Suricata.
Professional Challenges Addressed
BSidesYXE addresses several challenges facing security practitioners. The programme helps attendees stay current with evolving threats and understand emerging risks at the intersection of technology and AI. Sessions on building effective security programmes and navigating regulatory and governance issues provide practical guidance for professionals at various career stages. The event also tackles burnout in cybersecurity, acknowledging the mental health pressures within the profession.
Who Should Attend
The conference serves security professionals across experience levels, from students entering the field to CISOs and executive advisors. Relevant roles include security researchers, auditors, risk officers, compliance professionals, and IT practitioners. Attendees typically work in technology, finance, education, critical infrastructure, and consulting sectors. The event provides newcomers with an accessible entry point into the security community while offering experienced professionals opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking.
Industry Support
BSidesYXE receives support from regional and national organizations including Critical Path Security, Arctiq, Iron Spear, SRNet, Complete Technologies, Bridges Health, Fortinet, and SaskTel. Professional associations and community groups such as ISACA Regina, OWASP Saskatoon, and Saskatoon Makerspace also contribute to the event. Technical publishers Packt and O’Reilly participate alongside security training provider Skillbit and consulting firm AdviseUp Consulting.