Safeguarding the Grid and the Plate: OT Insights with Aaron Crow, Host of PrOTect IT All Podcast

2024-08-26

In this special joint episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, host Kristin Demoranville teams up with Aaron Crow, the esteemed ProOTect IT All Podcast host and Senior Director at MorganFranklin Cyber. Aaron brings over two decades of experience in the cybersecurity domain, with a particular focus on operational technology (OT) and critical infrastructure. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of OT cybersecurity, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in protecting both the power grid and food supply chains. Aaron...

In this special joint episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, host Kristin Demoranville teams up with Aaron Crow, the esteemed ProOTect IT All Podcast host and Senior Director at MorganFranklin Cyber. Aaron brings over two decades of experience in the cybersecurity domain, with a particular focus on operational technology (OT) and critical infrastructure. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of OT cybersecurity, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in protecting both the power grid and food supply chains. Aaron shares his insights from his extensive career, including overseeing cybersecurity protocols at over 40 power generation sites, highlighting the importance of cross-industry collaboration. Whether you’re in the food industry or power utilities, simply passionate about cybersecurity, or even curious, this episode offers valuable insights into safeguarding our most vital systems.

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Aaron’s Info:

Website

Aaron Crow has carved a niche for himself as a prominent figure in the cybersecurity domain, particularly within the power utility and operational technology (OT) sectors. Currently serving as the Senior Director at MorganFranklin Cyber, Aaron focuses on OT cybersecurity across critical infrastructure, where he applies his extensive experience to safeguard vital systems.

His career, spanning over two decades, showcases a dedication to enhancing cybersecurity measures in critical infrastructure environments. Aaron's extensive experience includes a notable tenure as Manager of OT for power generation at Luminant (Vistra), where he was responsible for overseeing cybersecurity protocols across more than 40 power generation sites, including a vital nuclear power plant.

Aaron's expertise in the field is further evidenced by his impactful roles at EY, a leading Big 4 Consulting Firm, and Industrial Defender. At EY, he held the position of Senior Manager, leading transformational OT cybersecurity programs for a wide array of significant critical infrastructure clients. His leadership and strategic insight were instrumental in addressing and mitigating multifaceted cybersecurity challenges. As the CTO of Industrial Defender, Aaron significantly influenced the company's product development and strategic direction, demonstrating his ability to innovate and drive growth within the OT cybersecurity space.

Beyond his professional achievements, Aaron is deeply committed to contributing to the broader cybersecurity community. He is the host of the "PrOTect IT All" podcast, where he has recorded over 50 episodes featuring discussions with some of the most recognized thought leaders in the OT cybersecurity field. This platform has become an essential resource for sharing knowledge, trends, and insights, further solidifying Aaron's role as a thought leader in the industry.

In addition to his professional and community contributions, Aaron holds an advisory position with Building Cyber Security. This role leverages his comprehensive experience and dedication to advancing security practices within building management systems, emphasizing his commitment to improving industry-wide cybersecurity resilience.

Aaron's distinguished career in cybersecurity, particularly within the power utility sector and his extensive work as an asset owner, underscores his profound understanding of the challenges and complexities inherent in securing critical infrastructure. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to the field position him as a key figure in shaping the future of OT cybersecurity, making him a valuable asset to any organization or initiative aiming to enhance cybersecurity measures in critical infrastructure environments.

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PrOTect IT All Podcast

About the Show: Welcome to "PrOTect It All," the podcast where we peel back the layers of cybersecurity to reveal the core strategies, challenges, and triumphs of protecting our digital and operational landscapes. We're thrilled to have you on board for an upcoming episode! Your insights and experiences are invaluable to our listeners who are eager to learn and engage with the leading minds in IT and OT security.

As we gear up to dive into conversation, please feel free to share any specific topics or stories you'd like to discuss. Our audience appreciates both the technical deep-dives and the high-level overviews, so bring your unique perspective, and let's make cybersecurity accessible and engaging together.

Thank you for joining us on this journey to foster a more secure future. We can't wait to hear your voice on the "PrOTect It All" podcast!

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Episode Key Highlights:

(01:39 - 02:49) Food and Ag Cybersecurity Innovations

(05:51 - 06:41) Difference Between OT and IT

(10:17 - 11:19) Importance of Agriculture in Critical Infrastructure

(16:47 - 18:33) Building Resilience in the Food Industry

(22:41 - 23:34) Legacy Tech Challenges With IoT Integration

(28:35 - 29:44) Understanding Cyber Physical Systems

(36:05 - 37:06) Potential Chaos in American Disaster Response

(43:22 - 44:23) Cyber Attack Threatening Lives Through Food

(47:31 - 48:04) Resilience in Food Industry Cybersecurity