Behind the locked door: A Project Manager's perspective on the CGI Cyber Escape

Welcome, hackers

Congratulations on making it this far. You’ve been brought together for a top-secret mission: infiltrate a rival organisation and retrieve a stolen USB device containing highly classified technology.

Think you have what it takes?

Welcome to CGI’s Cyber Escape Experience — an immersive, hands-on escape room designed to raise cyber security awareness. It challenges participants to think critically, work collaboratively, and sharpen their digital instincts.

To date, we’ve welcomed business professionals at Lot Fourteen, collaborated with a local high school through an eight-week programme in partnership with the Department for Education and Palo Alto Networks, and presented the experience at the Avalon Air Show. It’s been an exciting start to delivering outcomes in cyber awareness through interactive, gamified learning — and this is only the beginning.

I’ve had the privilege of watching about 100 teams through this experience. Along the way, I’ve witnessed a wide spectrum of approaches, challenges and lightbulb moments.

There was the high school team that solved every clue in record time — but forgot to take the USB at the end. The cyber security professionals who fell for one of the most basic phishing clues, highlighting how even the most experienced can be vulnerable to distraction. And there are always those teams who get within touching distance of the answer, only to pivot too soon — and yes, I feel every twist and turn with them.

Some teams hit the ground running: assigning roles, thinking out loud and remaining calm under pressure. Others, understandably, descend into chaos — papers scattered, clues stuck to shoes, and one team member spinning in a chair wondering aloud, “What even is cyber?”

Common pitfalls

It’s fascinating to observe where teams struggle:

• Overthinking - sometimes the answer is right in front of you. A change in perspective often helps.
• Skipping the basics - assumptions lead participants to overlook what they already know.
• Lack of communication - a key clue is discovered but not shared, while the rest of the team searches for what’s already been found.

The “aha” moments

One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience is seeing participants unlock a new way of thinking. The moment when someone re-frames a challenge and everything clicks — that’s where real learning happens.

Whether it’s a hesitant participant solving their first puzzle or a team building confidence as they progress, the energy shift is palpable. When people leave the room energised and asking to play again, we know the experience has delivered impact.

The outcomes

The most meaningful outcomes emerge during the end-of-game debrief. It’s here where our incredible games-master Carly helps participants put their blue team hats back on. How does their security posture compare to the rival company they just hacked into? This perspective shift provides them with the context of why robust security practices are essential.

But it’s not just about technical skills. The Cyber Escape Experience reflects how individuals respond to pressure, communicate under stress, and stay curious. It becomes a mirror for digital behaviour.

What’s next?

We’re continuing to develop and expand this experience — working with more organisations, exploring new formats, and aligning with CGI’s wider commitment to building secure digital futures.

This is just the beginning. Stay curious, stay sharp — and don’t forget the USB.

Book your experience with us now