Podcasts about Scada

⚡ Collapse Chronicles – Episode: EMP / Solar Event

Data collection is no longer a back-office task. It is now the foundation of manufacturing intelligence. In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, we are joined by Brian Bribe, founder of Mach Controls, to explore the practical realities of modernizing data infrastructure inside manufacturing facilities.Brian brings a frontline perspective to OT architecture and walks us through what it actually takes to connect legacy equipment, build scalable pipelines, and enable true real-time decision-making. We dive deep into Unified Namespace (UNS) principles, the evolution of MQTT and Kafka in industrial settings, and why so many manufacturers struggle to get ROI from new digital systems. From co-op student to founder of a systems integration firm, Brian shares how his early hands-on experience shaped his understanding of controls, business systems, and the gaps in between.Topics include historian layers, challenges with SCADA-based centralization, how to scope a machine connectivity project, practical change management tips, and the path to flattened architectures using modern pub-sub tools. This is a must-watch for engineers, plant managers, and decision-makers looking to make sense of the data revolution inside their factories.

⬥GUEST⬥Tobias Halmans, OT Incident Responder | GIAC Certified Incident Handler | Automation Security Consultant at admeritia GmbH | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-halmans/⬥HOST⬥Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imsmartin/ | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com⬥EPISODE NOTES⬥Business continuity planning is a familiar exercise for most IT and security leaders—but when you move into operational technology (OT), the rules change. In this episode of Redefining CyberSecurity, Sean Martin talks with Tobias Halmans, an incident responder at admeritia, who helps organizations prepare for and respond to incidents in OT environments. Tobias shares why disaster recovery planning in OT requires more than simply adapting IT frameworks. It demands a change in approach, mindset, and communication.OT engineers don't think in terms of “ransomware readiness.” They think in terms of safety, uptime, manual fallback options, and how long a plant can stay operational without a SCADA system. As Tobias explains, while IT teams worry about backup integrity and rapid rebooting, OT teams are focused on whether shutting down a system—even safely—is even an option. And when the recovery plan depends on third-party vendors, the assumptions made on both sides can derail the response before it begins.Tobias walks us through the nuances of defining success in OT recovery. Unlike the IT world's metrics like mean time to recover (MTTR), OT environments often hinge on production impacts and safety thresholds. Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs) still exist—but they must be anchored in real-world plant operations, often shaped by vendor limitations, legacy constraints, and tightly regulated safety requirements.Perhaps most importantly, Tobias stresses that business continuity planning for OT can't just be a cybersecurity add-on. It must be part of broader risk and operational conversations, ideally happening when systems are being designed or upgraded. But in reality, many organizations are only starting these conversations now—often driven more by compliance mandates than proactive risk strategy.Whether you're a CISO trying to bridge the gap with your OT counterparts or an engineer wondering why cyber teams keep showing up with playbooks that don't fit, this conversation offers grounded, real-world insight into what preparedness really means for critical operations.⬥SPONSORS⬥LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3ThreatLocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974⬥RESOURCES⬥Inspiring Article: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sarah-fluchs_notfallvorsorge-in-der-ot-traut-euch-activity-7308744270453092352-Q8X1⬥ADDITIONAL INFORMATION⬥✨ More Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast: 

⬥GUEST⬥Tobias Halmans, OT Incident Responder | GIAC Certified Incident Handler | Automation Security Consultant at admeritia GmbH | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-halmans/⬥HOST⬥Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imsmartin/ | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com⬥EPISODE NOTES⬥Business continuity planning is a familiar exercise for most IT and security leaders—but when you move into operational technology (OT), the rules change. In this episode of Redefining CyberSecurity, Sean Martin talks with Tobias Halmans, an incident responder at admeritia, who helps organizations prepare for and respond to incidents in OT environments. Tobias shares why disaster recovery planning in OT requires more than simply adapting IT frameworks. It demands a change in approach, mindset, and communication.OT engineers don't think in terms of “ransomware readiness.” They think in terms of safety, uptime, manual fallback options, and how long a plant can stay operational without a SCADA system. As Tobias explains, while IT teams worry about backup integrity and rapid rebooting, OT teams are focused on whether shutting down a system—even safely—is even an option. And when the recovery plan depends on third-party vendors, the assumptions made on both sides can derail the response before it begins.Tobias walks us through the nuances of defining success in OT recovery. Unlike the IT world's metrics like mean time to recover (MTTR), OT environments often hinge on production impacts and safety thresholds. Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs) still exist—but they must be anchored in real-world plant operations, often shaped by vendor limitations, legacy constraints, and tightly regulated safety requirements.Perhaps most importantly, Tobias stresses that business continuity planning for OT can't just be a cybersecurity add-on. It must be part of broader risk and operational conversations, ideally happening when systems are being designed or upgraded. But in reality, many organizations are only starting these conversations now—often driven more by compliance mandates than proactive risk strategy.Whether you're a CISO trying to bridge the gap with your OT counterparts or an engineer wondering why cyber teams keep showing up with playbooks that don't fit, this conversation offers grounded, real-world insight into what preparedness really means for critical operations.⬥SPONSORS⬥LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3ThreatLocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974⬥RESOURCES⬥Inspiring Article: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sarah-fluchs_notfallvorsorge-in-der-ot-traut-euch-activity-7308744270453092352-Q8X1⬥ADDITIONAL INFORMATION⬥✨ More Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast: 

Engineer, content creator, and IIoT educator, Zack Scriven, joins Phil and Ed for a wide-ranging discussion on the evolution of industrial digital transformation, the impact of authentic content creation, and the power of community. Zack shares his story from being introduced to SCADA at a young age, to taking part in award-winning industry projects, to building one of the most recognized educational brands around Industry 4.0. This episode covers the rise of the unified namespace, practical realities behind successful digital strategies, the importance of intuitive design in industrial systems, and the value of starting small when driving change. Whether you're a manufacturer, system integrator, or simply intrigued by the future of automation, this episode offers real-world perspectives and inspiration from the front lines of smart manufacturing.Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/Connect with Zack on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackscriven/

Jeff Taylor, SCADA System Supervisor for the City of Riverside's regional water quality control plant, to understand his role, daily responsibilities, and career path. Jeff Taylor described his work as maintaining the automation system of the wastewater plant, which includes servers, PLCs, communication infrastructure, and various devices, with a 50/50 split between office and field work. He also shared insights on essential skills, a major system outage experience, continuous upskilling, leadership, and cybersecurity in the SCADA field. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Matthew D. Smith, CEO of fieldcloud SAS, joins host Phil Seboa for an energetic and eye-opening episode focused on industrial connectivity, retro computing, and bridging cultural divides in global automation projects. With decades of experience in IT, SCADA, and telecoms, Matthew shares his background working on legacy systems at Eskom, inventive projects in the oil and gas sector, and the practical realities of deploying IIoT solutions in some of the world's toughest environments. Learn how fieldcloud SAS approaches obsolescence, knowledge transfer, and the challenges of language and culture in international fieldwork.Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darthfiber/-------------------About Industry Sage Media:Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com

Most teams talk about reliability with a margin for error. “What's our SLO? What's our budget for failure?” But in the energy sector? There is no acceptable downtime. Not even a little.In this episode, I talk with Wade Harris, Director of FAST Engineering in Australia, who's spent 15+ years designing and rolling out monitoring and control systems for critical energy infrastructure like power stations, solar farms, SCADA networks, you name it.What makes this episode different is that Wade isn't a reliability engineer by title, but it's baked into everything his team touches. And that matters more than ever as software creeps deeper into operational technology (OT), and the cloud tries to stake its claim in critical systems.We cover:* Why 100% uptime is the minimum bar, not a stretch goal* How the rise of renewables has increased system complexity — and what that means for monitoring* Why bespoke integration and SCADA spaghetti are still normal (and here to stay)* The reality of cloud risk in critical infrastructure (“the cloud is just someone else's computer”)* What software engineers need to understand if they want their products used in serious environmentsThis isn't about observability dashboards or DevOps rituals. This is reliability when the lights go out and people risk getting hurt if you get it wrong.And it's a reminder: not every system lives in a feature-driven world. Some systems just have to work. Always. No matter what. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit read.srepath.com

Podcast: Control Amplified: The Process Automation Podcast (LS 25 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Modern SCADA: ensuring safety, relevance and conveniencePub date: 2025-06-11Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationSCADA applications are responsible for far more than facilitating real-time process monitoring and alarm management. The process history they compile over time is critical to providing the data-driven insights that industry relies on when optimizing their systems to control costs, maximize uptime and increase the life of infrastructure. Modern SCADA systems must ensure data is safe, relevant and easily shareable with a company's own team or third-party reporting solutions, business systems and artificial intelligence (AI) platforms. Control Amplified talked to Chris Little, media relations director, Trihedral Engineering, about straightforward principles to ensure that your SCADA data is ready to go to work.The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from ControlGlobal, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

SCADA applications are responsible for far more than facilitating real-time process monitoring and alarm management. The process history they compile over time is critical to providing the data-driven insights that industry relies on when optimizing their systems to control costs, maximize uptime and increase the life of infrastructure. Modern SCADA systems must ensure data is safe, relevant and easily shareable with a company's own team or third-party reporting solutions, business systems and artificial intelligence (AI) platforms. Control Amplified talked to Chris Little, media relations director, Trihedral Engineering, about straightforward principles to ensure that your SCADA data is ready to go to work.

Vladimir Romanov joins Phil Seboa to break down what it truly takes to shift legacy manufacturing systems into modern, data-driven operations. Bringing stories from the plant floor and insight from his time at ProveIt, Vlad reflects on the messy reality of automation upgrades, extracting meaningful data, and managing challenging change on both technical and human fronts. The episode. brought to you by our friends at Inductive Automation, goes beyond software hype, revealing the tough questions around ROI, assessing what to modernize, how to contextualize process data, and why education and buy-in matter more than the flashiest technology. Expect candid anecdotes, actionable strategies for bridging OT and IT, and a thought-provoking look at what actually works when pushing the boundaries of industrial automation.About Our Episode Sponsor: Inductive Automation:By cross-pollinating IT with SCADA technologies, Inductive Automation created Ignition software, the first universal industrial application platform with unlimited potential. Ignition empowers industrial organizations to swiftly turn great ideas into reality by removing technological and economic obstacles.Ignition brings affordable Digital Transformation to your industrial operations. For the low cost of one server license, you can connect all your devices, collect more data than ever, create an unlimited number of tags, and add as many users as you need — no extra charges or hidden fees. Plus, the Ignition Designer helps you build any custom application and instantly web-deploy it to any industrial display or mobile device.Try Ignition today with a free 2-hour trial that you can reset an unlimited number of times.Download Ignition Free Trial at: ⁠ ⁠https://go.industrysagemedia.com/ignition⁠Visit Inductive Automation: ⁠⁠https://www.inductiveautomation.com⁠-------Connect with Vladimir on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladromanov/Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/About Industry Sage Media:Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com

Carlos Oliveira, CEO of Fibersail, discusses their advanced fiber optic technology for early detection of wind turbine blade damage, reducing downtime and optimizing maintenance for wind farm operators. Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard's StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes' YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us! Allen Hall: Wind turbine blade failures cost the industry billions annually. Today we're talking with Fibersail, CEO, Carlos Oliveira About their innovative fiber optic technology that detects early blade damage before catastrophic failures occur. Learn how their shape sensing system is helping wind farm operators reduce downtime and optimize maintenance. Welcome to Uptime Spotlight, shining Light on Wind. Energy's brightest innovators. This is the progress powering tomorrow. Carlos, welcome to the program. Thank you for having me here.  Allen Hall: This is gonna be a fascinating discussion. when I was over at Wind Europe, the activity around your booth was really good. a lot of interested people wanting to learn more about the technology and how to protect their blades and be able to determine early if they have blade problems. And I think everybody on the [00:01:00] podcast knows that blades are a huge issue financially. And we just don't have enough information about how they are moving structurally or what kind of structural issues they're having. How big do you think this problem is, Carlos?  Speaker 3: I agree with you. So we have quite a busy Wind Europe event. we were really full all the, time. and I think that, the problem is really, getting out, right? It's every year, more than. Five, $6 billion are being spent in non-planned repairs activities. and this is impacting a lot to the bottom line of the industry. what we knew at fiber cell 3, 4, 5 years ago, that the problem was really big Honda blades. Now it's mainstream knowledge. big companies are putting billions of euros, in, recognizing losses because of this issue. And more and more customers are coming to us. it's [00:02:00] really a big issue and we believe that, it can really put in danger the wind industry as a whole.  Allen Hall: Yeah. And even if you buy a new turbine today, there is very little information that comes from the blades themselves. A lot of it is coming from the SCADA system, and that's, those SCADA systems are not designed to detect this sort of. Issues that Fibersail can detect. Correct?  Speaker 3: Yeah. And I think it's we are building bigger and bigger blades, using old technology, right? It does not work. you have a mixture for a big explosion happening, and that's exactly what we are seeing. If in the past, the turbines, they were showing problems after 5, 6, 7, 8 years of operation. Today we have customers that come to us. with big problems in blades after one, two years of operation, some of them still during the warranty period. So it's really becoming a big issue and that's where our shape sensing technology kicks in because we have advanced sensing technology. For the most [00:03:00] advanced, turbines out there and the new ones, it's really good interior, but the reality is a different story.  Allen Hall: how soon should you install a system onto a blade, particularly a new blade? Should it go in at the factory or, immediately after in the warranty period, or a lot of operators that we have seen, like to install them at year five or six of operation, which seems. Late to us.  Speaker 3: I tend to agree, we would prefer to have it installed, at the manufacturing. we know it's not, straightforward. and what we're doing, and this is let's say our go-to market strateg...

In Episode 209 of Manufacturing Hub, we sit down with Dylan to explore the full spectrum of automation—from his early hands-on experiences in PLC programming all the way to architecting full-scale SCADA and MES systems. If you're looking to understand what it really takes to grow a career in industrial automation, this conversation delivers raw insights, practical lessons, and battle-tested strategies from the plant floor to the boardroom.Dylan shares how his career evolved from service technician to systems integrator, detailing the learning curve involved in jumping between platforms like Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, and SQL databases. We dig into real-world project challenges, the importance of simulation and testing, and what it means to deliver systems that operators actually enjoy using. Along the way, Dylan offers valuable advice on how to learn faster, deal with unclear project scopes, and design better user interfaces by borrowing principles from modern UX and UI design.We also examine:Why ownership and internal technical teams are critical for end usersThe importance of interoperability and avoiding vendor or integrator lock-inHow project creep really happens and what you can do about itVisualization trends in SCADA and HMI systems, including practical opinions on high-performance design and AR/VRData strategies for manufacturing, from pipe-level decisions to planning for future use casesDylan's new venture, Abelara, and how it helps manufacturers align executive vision with plant-floor executionThis episode is a must-listen for engineers, integrators, and manufacturing leaders looking to modernize their operations while keeping both usability and scalability in mind. Whether you're early in your automation career or navigating complex transformation efforts, you'll walk away with insights you can apply immediately.⏱ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction00:08 – What is Manufacturing Hub? Meet Dylan, our guest02:00 – Dylan's career path from tech school to SCADA systems04:00 – Early project experience and rapid on-the-job learning06:30 – Moving from PLCs to SCADA and MES development08:20 – Learning without mentors: forums, support lines, and trial by fire10:10 – Challenges and opportunities with modern control platforms12:00 – Vendor openness, interoperability, and practical system limitations15:00 – Scope creep and how to reduce it with better project planning17:00 – The role of simulation and show-and-tell in successful startups20:00 – Getting end user buy-in from operators to executives22:15 – UI and UX in industrial systems: beyond standards and templates26:00 – Why most HMI screens are outdated and how to improve them30:00 – Using consumer design trends in industrial HMI development33:00 – Ownership vs. partnership: the evolving role of integrators36:00 – Visualization tools: what's working and what still needs to improve40:00 – Data in manufacturing: planning, silos, and interoperability45:00 – Why planning trumps tools and how to avoid duplicate systems49:00 – Real talk on end user responsibility and integrator lock-in54:00 – How local integrators can thrive in a reshoring environment57:30 – Early signs and implications of reshoring in manufacturing01:01:00 – Introducing Abelara: Dylan and Glenn's new consulting venture01:04:00 – Book recommendation: Silos, Politics and Turf Wars01:06:00 – Career advice for new engineers: learn by doing01:09:00 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Dylan and Abelara

Now that we know what a PLC, HMI and SCADA are (check out last week's episode for a refresher if you need one!), we're ready for part two of our OT deep dive: how does an OT attack work? In this Deep Dive, Rob Maas and Luca Cipriano break down just how complex an OT attack really is. From needing to stay hidden, to requiring access to very specific system settings and blueprints; setting up a successful OT attack (thankfully) is no easy task. But does that mean it's easier to defend against them?Key topics:⚙️ How IT and OT attacks differ☠️ What the ICS cyber kill chain is

In this episode of DC Power Hour, host Allen Byrne is joined by DC power experts Lucas Berndt, and Ryan Wallace, discusses aging DC power infrastructure, focusing on under-funding, skill shortages, and maintenance challenges. They explore real-world outages and the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and skilled tradespeople.Episode Highlights5:33 – They couldn't get their SCADA system online. They essentially had to declare a state of emergency.8:48 – Recently, we've had a massive power outage in the country of Chile, followed by another on the entire Iberian Peninsula two weeks later.13:01 – I've gone into nuclear facilities, and they had a plan for their plan, and then another plan for that plan.14:36 – I've noticed over the last 20 years or so of my career that we're losing the skills.24:27 – We have an aging infrastructure and a workforce that's retiring and taking their knowledge with them.

A jury orders NSO Group to pay $167 millions dollars to Meta over spyware allegations. CISA warns of hacktivists targeting U.S. ICS and SCADA systems. Researcher Micah Lee documents serious privacy risks in the TM SGNL app used by high level Trump officials. The NSA plans significant workforce cuts. Nations look for alternatives to U.S. cloud providers. A medical device provider discloses a cyberattack disrupting its ability to ship customer orders. The Panda Shop smishing kit impersonates trusted brands. Accenture's CFO thwarts a deepfake attempt. Our temporary intern Kevin Magee from Microsoft wraps up his reporting from the RSAC show floor.  Server room shenanigans, with romance, retaliation, and root access. Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Miss an episode? Sign-up for our daily intelligence roundup, Daily Briefing, and you'll never miss a beat. And be sure to follow CyberWire Daily on LinkedIn. CyberWire Guest Wrapping up RSAC 2025, we're joined by our partner Kevin Magee, Global Director of Cybersecurity Startups at Microsoft for Startups. Kevin brings the energy with a high-octane medley of interviews directly from the show floor, featuring sharp insights and bold ideas from some of cybersecurity's most influential voices. It's the perfect, fast-paced finale to our RSAC coverage—check out the show notes for links to all the guests featured! In this segment, you'll hear from Eoin Wickens, Director of Threat Intelligence of HiddenLayer, Jordan Shaw-Young, Chief of Staff for Security Services at BlueVoyant, Gil Barak, co-founder and CEO of Blink Ops, and Paul St Vil, VP of Field Engineering at Zenity. You can also catch Kevin on our Microsoft for Startups⁠ Spotlight, brought to you by N2K CyberWire and Microsoft, where we shine a light on innovation, ambition, and the tech trailblazers building the future right from the startup trenches. Kevin and Dave talk with startup veteran and Cygenta co-founder FC about making the leap from hacker to entrepreneur, then speak with three Microsoft for Startups members: Matthew Chiodi⁠ of ⁠Cerby⁠, ⁠Travis Howerton⁠ of ⁠RegScale⁠, and ⁠Karl Mattson⁠ of ⁠Endor Labs⁠. Whether you are building your own startup or just love a good innovation story, listen and learn more here. Selected Reading Spyware-maker NSO ordered to pay $167 million for hacking WhatsApp (The Washington Post) CISA Warns of Hackers Attacking ICS/SCADA Systems in Oil and Natural Gas Companies (Cyber Security News) Despite misleading marketing, Israeli company TeleMessage, used by Trump officials, can access plaintext chat logs (Micha Flee) NSA to cut up to 2,000 civilian roles as part of intel community downsizing' (The Record) NIST loses key cyber experts in standards and research (Cybersecurity Dive) A coherent European/non-US cloud strategy: building railroads for the cloud economy (Bert Hubert) Medical device giant Masimo says cyberattack is limiting ability to fill customer orders (The Record) New Chinese Smishing Kit Dubbed 'Panda Shop' Steal Google, Apple Pay & Credit Card Details (Cyber Security News) Accenture: What we learned when our CEO got deepfaked (Computing) IT Worker from Computacenter Let Girlfriend Into Deutsche Bank's Restricted Areas (GB Hackers) Share your feedback. We want to ensure that you are getting the most out of the podcast. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey as we continually work to improve the show. Want to hear your company in the show? You too can reach the most influential leaders and operators in the industry. Here's our media kit. Contact us at cyberwire@n2k.com to request more info. The CyberWire is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Kellie De Pooter, Director, Global Marketing and Internal Communications at G&W Electric Co. about "A resilient and reliable grid". Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial talk podcast featuring Kellie De Pooter, Global Director of Marketing and Communications at G&W Electric. Kellie discusses the growth of the DistribyTech event in Dallas, Texas, and the importance of collaboration with utilities. G&W Electric's booth features an innovation corner for customer feedback on new products. They focus on resiliency, reliability, and digitalization, using sensing technology and condition-based monitoring to improve grid performance. Kellie highlights a successful collaboration with a customer on a 69 kV apparatus. The conversation also touches on the increasing demand for power due to AI and data centers, emphasizing the need for efficient data utilization. Action Items [ ] Integrate G&W's sensing technologies into their overhead reclosers and underground switches to provide more granular data to utilities. [ ] Explore ways to seamlessly integrate the data from G&W's solutions into utilities' own cloud/SCADA systems. [ ] Collaborate with customers to pilot G&W's new condition-based monitoring and asset management solutions. Outline Kellie De Pooter G&W Electric: Introduction and Event Overview Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting its focus on industry innovations and professionals. Scott welcomes listeners and mentions the event being broadcasted from DistribuTech in Dallas, Texas. Scott introduces Kellie De Pooter, Global Director of Marketing and Communications for G&W Electric, and praises her previous appearances on the show. Kellie De Pooter confirms her presence at the event and discusses the growth of the event, noting its global expansion. Kellie De Pooter's Role and G&W Electric's Booth Kellie De Pooter explains her role at G&W Electric, a 120-year-old company based in Chicago, and their products for utilities and commercial/industrial customers. Scott comments on the impressive booth setup by G&W Electric, which won an award last year. Kellie describes the innovation corner in their booth, which is invite-only and used to gather customer feedback on new, unmarketed products. The innovation corner allows for collaborative problem-solving and potential development of new solutions. Challenges in the Utility Sector Scott and Kellie discuss the challenges faced by the utility sector, including increasing power demand and the need for modernization and digitalization. Kellie emphasizes the importance of resiliency and reliability of the grid, and the role of AI and other technologies in addressing these challenges. G&W Electric is investing in sensing technology and condition-based monitoring to help utilities make better decisions and improve grid reliability. The company is working with a partner to test and develop these technologies, with plans to scale them across the industry. Data Integration and Analytics Scott inquires about the process of integrating data from G&W Electric's apparatus into the cloud and how it is analyzed. Kellie explains that the data is currently being pushed to the partner's cloud, but plans are in place to integrate with utilities' existing systems.

In this episode of Unplugged, Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes sit down with Jarith Fry, the SCADA and Systems Engineering Manager at Highland Pine Products. Jarith, an experienced engineer and innovator, shares his journey from Washington State, where he developed a passion for robotics inspired by his favorite superhero, Iron Man. Transitioning from integrator to end user, Jarith discusses the challenges and successes of modernizing equipment at Highland Pine, including moving from legacy systems to state-of-the-art technologies like Ignition. He also touches on the importance of community and training, security concerns, and innovative projects both at work and home. Tune in to learn about Jarith's insights on automation, the timber industry, and the future of industrial IoT.

Today on the Clean Power Hour recorded at InterSolar in San Diego, host Tim Montague welcomes back Matt Campbell, CEO and founder of Terabase Energy, to discuss the future of automated solar construction. Matt shares Terabase's journey over the past four years developing Terafab, their innovative "in-the-field factory" that semi-automates solar power plant construction.Matt explains how Terabase is tackling the unique challenges of outdoor autonomy and robotics to achieve 24/7 solar construction capabilities. Unlike traditional automation that happens in controlled indoor environments, Terafab brings robots outdoors to build solar installations faster, with higher quality, and at lower costs. The conversation explores the technical hurdles of implementing robotics in variable field conditions and Terabase's vision for scaling to help the industry reach terawatt-level solar deployment.The discussion also covers Terabase's broader digital ecosystem, including their construct platform (a digital construction management system currently used on 14 gigawatts of projects), plant predict, and SCADA solutions. Matt shares insights on how these digital tools are creating comprehensive digital twins of solar projects and helping improve quality, safety, and productivity across the industry.KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:Terafab's development journey and upcoming 100-megawatt deployment in 2025The challenges and solutions for outdoor robotic automation in solar constructionDifferent approaches to automating solar construction (off-site prefab, on-site prefab, in-field robots)Addressing labor shortages through automation while improving safety and reliabilityTerabase's digital construction management system and its impact on 14 gigawatts of projectsThe path to achieving "penny-a-kWh" solar electricitySuppose you're interested in the future of renewable energy construction, automation in solar, or how technology is helping to speed the energy transition. In that case, this episode offers valuable insights from one of the industry's most innovative companies.Social Media HandlesMatt CampbellTerabase Energy Support the showConnect with Tim Clean Power Hour Clean Power Hour on YouTubeTim on TwitterTim on LinkedIn Email tim@cleanpowerhour.com Review Clean Power Hour on Apple PodcastsThe Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America's number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this special episode brought to you by Inductive Automation, hosts Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes welcome back Arlen Nipper, a pioneer in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) and co-inventor of MQTT. Arlen takes us on a deep dive into the latest advancements from Cirrus Link with a special focus and Unified Namespace (UNS) demo.Discover how the UNS concept is transforming data management in industrial systems by providing a structured and scalable way to organize and access data. Arlen walks us through the new enhancements to the Cirrus Link portfolio, including the MQTT engine's ability to generate a more organized UNS view and the advantages of leveraging Ignition for seamless application development.Join us as Arlen showcases the power of the UNS, from edge nodes to cloud databases, and reveals how these new tools empower industries to achieve digital transformation effortlessly. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an industry expert, this episode offers invaluable insights into the world of IoT and the future of industrial automation.**This episode is best experienced by watching the video podcast version or watching the video episode over on YouTube.**Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/q4eXXy1Fm1s-----About Our Episode Sponsor: Inductive Automation:By cross-pollinating IT with SCADA technologies, Inductive Automation created Ignition software, the first universal industrial application platform with unlimited potential. Ignition empowers industrial organizations to swiftly turn great ideas into reality by removing technological and economic obstacles.Ignition brings affordable Digital Transformation to your industrial operations. For the low cost of one server license, you can connect all your devices, collect more data than ever, create an unlimited number of tags, and add as many users as you need — no extra charges or hidden fees. Plus, the Ignition Designer helps you build any custom application and instantly web-deploy it to any industrial display or mobile device.Try Ignition today with a free 2-hour trial that you can reset an unlimited number of times.Download Ignition Free Trial at: ⁠https://go.industrysagemedia.com/ignition⁠Visit Inductive Automation: ⁠https://www.inductiveautomation.com⁠---------------Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/Connect with Arlen on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlen-nipper-42281057/About Industry Sage Media:Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com

In this episode recorded live at the ProveIt Conference, we sit down with Mark and Harry from Tatsoft, creators of the industrial IIoT platform Frameworks. We dive deep into how Tatsoft is redefining what a true industrial platform should be — built from the ground up for the factory floor, yet scalable across the enterprise.Mark and Harry walk us through:Their platform's positioning as a SCADA, HMI, MES, and IIoT toolbox — all in oneHow Frameworks handles real-time data, from connectivity (MQTT, OPC UA, SQL) to transformation and dynamic visualizationWhy the “extra I in IIoT” matters when building for industrial environmentsThe challenges of IT/OT integration, people gaps, and legacy systems — and how Tatsoft tackles them head-onA demo of their ProveIt solution, showing off auto-recognition of new assets, dynamic UI, and high-performance visualization across devicesWhether you're an end user, system integrator, or OEM, this episode will help you understand how Tatsoft's Frameworks V10 is enabling fast, scalable, and future-proof industrial applications — without compromise.

In this episode brought to you by Inductive Automation, Phil Seboa sits down with Vice President of Opto22, Benson Hoagland. Benson brings his 30 years of experience in industrial automation and IoT to discuss the benefits of Ignition by Inductive Automation along with his intriguing journey into the world of automation and IoT. They also discuss the growth of home automation, the importance of interoperability, and their experiences from the recent ProveIt conference.About Inductive Automation:By cross-pollinating IT with SCADA technologies, Inductive Automation created Ignition software, the first universal industrial application platform with unlimited potential. Ignition empowers industrial organizations to swiftly turn great ideas into reality by removing technological and economic obstacles.Ignition brings affordable Digital Transformation to your industrial operations. For the low cost of one server license, you can connect all your devices, collect more data than ever, create an unlimited number of tags, and add as many users as you need — no extra charges or hidden fees. Plus, the Ignition Designer helps you build any custom application and instantly web-deploy it to any industrial display or mobile device.Try Ignition today with a free 2-hour trial that you can reset an unlimited number of times.Learn More and Download Ignition Free Trial at: https://go.industrysagemedia.com/ignitionVisit Inductive Automation: https://www.inductiveautomation.com------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Benson on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhougland/Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/Connect with Ed on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/-------------------------------------------------------------------About Industry Sage Media:Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com

Send us a textIn this fascinating episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Colin Bunyard, an Air Force veteran turned tech leader, to explore his journey from military logistics to cutting-edge SCADA solutions. Colin shares his passion for astronomy, the evolution of MSPs, and how AI-powered automation is shaping the future of industrial tech.

In this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we discuss some cutting-edge intel coming out of the LimaCharlie community.The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is facing significant operational challenges as budget constraints force it to scale back key cybersecurity programs.Scammers are taking a new approach to extortion by mailing physical ransom letters to victims, claiming to be the operators of the BianLian ransomware group.A newly identified advanced persistent threat (APT) group, dubbed "Crafty Camel," has been targeting aviation operational technology (OT) systems using a sophisticated technique involving polyglot files. A new malvertising campaign is leveraging deceptive online ads to distribute information-stealing malware hosted on GitHub, highlighting an ongoing evolution in cybercriminal tactics.Security researchers have disclosed details of multiple vulnerabilities in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems that could be exploited to facilitate attacks on industrial environments.

We're coming to you LIVE from the ProveIt Conference in Dallas, TX, where we're witnessing one of the most groundbreaking manufacturing and industrial automation events in history. Hosted by Walker Reynolds and the 4.0 Solutions team, ProveIt brings together 36+ vendors, industry leaders, and a massive community to showcase real-world digital transformation solutions—all connected to a unified namespace (UNS) virtual factory.In this episode, Dave and Vlad from Manufacturing Hub go behind the scenes with Walker Reynolds, discussing:✅ The vision behind ProveIt – What it takes to create a community-driven industry event✅ How vendors were challenged to solve real-world problems using real factory data✅ Key takeaways from top presentations – Tulip, Litmus, Concept Reply/Snowflake, Google Cloud, Dell Native Edge, and more✅ Lessons learned from integrating 36 vendors into a single, fully functional UNS✅ The future of ProveIt – What's coming for 2026 and beyond

Podcast: Error Code (LS 26 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: EP 57: Strengthening Embedded Device Security with Cloud-Based SCADAPub date: 2025-03-05Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationEmbedded devices need basic security measures like multi-factor authentication and unique credentials to reduce vulnerabilities and protect against cyber threats. Mauritz Botha, co-founder and CTO of XiO Inc., explains that cloud-based SCADA can update old systems and provide the visibility that's currently missing.The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Robert Vamosi, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

Embedded devices need basic security measures like multi-factor authentication and unique credentials to reduce vulnerabilities and protect against cyber threats. Mauritz Botha, co-founder and CTO of XiO Inc., explains that cloud-based SCADA can update old systems and provide the visibility that's currently missing.

The only constant in today's industrial landscape is the rapid evolution fueled by digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI). It is estimated that more than 90% of businesses engage in some form of digital activity. While innovation and adaptability are keys to staying ahead, the digital transformation journey for industrial organizations is by no means an easy one, particularly in water and wastewater. Control talked with Alejandro Trejo, Offer Manager for Digital Services, and James Redmond, Global Offer Manager for SCADA and Telemetry, of Schneider Electric to get further insight into the challenges and solutions for operators.

Ian Wilson is the Safety & Logistics Practice Leader at Grantek. Ian is an experienced Project Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the industrial automation industry. Skilled in Process Control, Control Systems Design, SCADA, Engineering, and Process Automation. Ian is a proven and strong program and project management professional with a TUV focus in Machine Safety. The Industry 4.0 Podcast with Grantek delivers a look into the world of manufacturing, with a focus on stories and trends that lead to better solutions.   Our guests will share tips and outcomes that will help improve your productivity. You will hear from leading providers of Industrial Control System hardware and software, Grantek experts and leaders at best-in-class industry associations that serve Life Sciences and Food & Beverage manufactures.

Welcome to Manufacturing Hub, where we dive deep into the world of industrial automation, software, and digital transformation. In this episode, hosts Dave and Vlad are joined by Zach Scriven, an industrial automation expert, digital transformation evangelist, and a key player in the development of Prove It, a groundbreaking industry conference.This conversation explores a range of topics, from Zach's personal journey in industrial automation and SCADA integration to his pioneering work in digital transformation education. We discuss Unified Namespace (UNS)—a powerful framework for structuring and scaling industrial data—and its role in breaking down silos and creating scalable, interoperable architectures.Key Topics Discussed:✅ Zach Scriven's Background: His journey from SCADA integration in the water industry to co-founding 4.0 Solutions and IoT University.✅ Unified Namespace (UNS): What it is, why it matters, and how it enables scalable industrial data architectures.✅ Digital Transformation in Manufacturing: The need for a clear strategy, the challenges of data silos, and the shift toward IT-OT convergence.✅ Edge Computing & Industrial Data Platforms: How Ignition, MQTT, Litmus Edge, HighByte, and HiveMQ are changing the landscape of industrial automation.✅ Challenges in Legacy Industrial Systems: How companies with aging infrastructure can begin their digital transformation journey.✅ The Future of Industrial Conferences – Prove It: Why traditional conferences fail to deliver value and how Prove It is disrupting the model by requiring vendors to "prove" their solutions in a real-world simulated environment.References & Companies Mentioned:

In this action-packed episode, our hosts kick off with exciting news about the upcoming Prove It Conference in Dallas and then welcome Kyle—a rising talent in the industrial automation space—to share his unique journey and insights.Episode HighlightsGetting Started in Automation:Kyle recounts his transition from studying technology information management at UC Santa Cruz to diving headfirst into the world of SCADA, HMI design, and industrial automation with Inductive Automation. His early days involved a steep learning curve with hands-on training through Inductive University, showcasing the importance of real-world problem solving right from the start.Training & Onboarding Best Practices:Discover how the industry's hallmark training—ranging from the foundational core class to advanced database, scripting, and Perspective modules—is structured. Kyle explains how the approach has evolved from a “trial by fire” to a more measured, project-based learning that emphasizes understanding not just the tool, but also the underlying processes and terminology.Specialization & Career Growth:The conversation delves into the importance of role definition in automation teams. Whether you're focused solely on HMI development or handling the complexities of tag management and PLC integration, learn why narrowing your expertise can be a game changer for career advancement.Troubleshooting Methodologies:Kyle breaks down his company's four-phase troubleshooting cycle—discovery, identification, isolation, and resolution—which not only streamlines problem-solving but also ensures effective communication among support teams. This systematic approach is vital for resolving issues quickly in high-stakes industrial environments.The Future of Industrial Training:Looking ahead, the discussion touches on emerging trends such as integrating AI (including ChatGPT) and augmented reality tools like Apple Vision Pro into training programs. The hope is that these advancements will democratize learning in automation—from high school workshops to specialized professional training—bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.Real-World Advice & Recommendations:Along with career tips—like taking full advantage of free trials and not shying away from challenging projects—the episode also offers cultural recommendations, including movie nods (think Netflix's “Carry On” for a SCADA twist) and a must-read book, Businesses Don't Fail, They Commit Suicide by Larry Mandelberger, which dives into the human and organizational aspects of business success.Tune in for a conversation that's as much about technical mastery as it is about the evolving landscape of industrial automation education. Whether you're a newcomer eager to learn or a seasoned pro looking for fresh insights, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help you thrive in the rapidly changing world of manufacturing and automation.******Connect with UsVlad RomanovDave GriffithManufacturing HubSolisPLCJoltek

In this episode of Plugged In, Constellation's Managing Director Melissa Zimmerman speaks with Ed Socia, Director, North America at datacenterHawk, about the evolving energy demands and sustainability challenges of data centers. Ed discusses trends such as the growing influence of AI, increasing rack densities, and the adoption of liquid cooling to optimize energy use. He highlights the role of real-time monitoring tools like SCADA and DSIM in improving efficiency while addressing regional variations in energy strategies and the balance between carbon reduction goals and business viability. He also touches on the potential of emerging technologies like small modular reactors and green hydrogen, the importance of adaptive reuse of sites, and the need to enhance grid reliability as the industry continues to grow rapidly. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in… Trends in data centers and energy demand (02:00) Energy procurement today and on-site generation methods (03:59) Monitoring energy usage in data centers (12:04) Sustainability challenges and regional variations (14:38) Teams involved in siting, sourcing, and building data centers (16:38) Innovative energy solutions for data centers (19:59) The importance of grid reliability (22:42) For detailed show notes, click here. Connect with Ed Socia  On LinkedIn Hailing from Syracuse, New York, Ed has a background in sustainability, focusing on renewable power generation and the growth of digital infrastructure. Before joining datacenterHawk as its Director for North America, Ed was the Director of Research for North America at CBRE. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his fiancée Brittany and their pug, Sherman. Connect with Melissa Zimmerman    On LinkedIn Melissa Zimmerman is a seasoned professional with over 17 years in the energy industry, currently serving as the Director of Commercial Strategy at Constellation. In this role, she supports the growth of Constellation's commercial business, which markets electricity, natural gas, and other energy-related products and services to various customer segments, including wholesale, commercial, industrial, and residential clients. Prior to her current position, Melissa held several key roles within the company, including Chief of Staff, Manager of the Mid-Atlantic Sales Support team, and Account Manager for commercial real estate customers in the DC and MD area. She began her career at Constellation as a pricing analyst, where she was responsible for pricing and validating energy contracts for retail customers. Melissa holds a bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Economics from Towson University and a Master of Science degree in Applied and Computational Mathematics from Johns Hopkins University. Connect with Constellation Follow Constellation on LinkedIn  Follow Chuck Hanna on LinkedIn Learn more about Constellation sustainability solutions Connect with Smart Energy Decisions Smart Energy Decisions Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to Smart Energy Voices on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Android, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, aCast, PlayerFM, iHeart Radio If you're interested in participating in the next Smart Energy Decisions Event, visit smartenergydecisions.com or email our Community Development team at attend@smartenergydecisions.com

As we enter 2025, the manufacturing and industrial automation sectors are facing a period of significant transformation. In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, Dave and Vlad outline their plans for the year, covering everything from the direction of the podcast to industry trends shaping the future of manufacturing.This episode kicks off with an overview of the podcast's 2025 format, which continues to be structured around monthly themes. This year, topics such as ERP, modern maintenance strategies, workforce upskilling, and industrial data management will take center stage. While some recurring topics like robotics, systems integration, and manufacturing intelligence will return, the podcast will also explore new themes to address emerging challenges in the industry.Beyond the podcast, Dave and Vlad discuss the state of manufacturing going into 2025, breaking it down by key business functions:Finance & Capital Investments – Companies are resuming automation and technology investments after a period of budget constraints. However, challenges remain in securing funding for new initiatives, especially for mid-sized manufacturers looking to scale operations. With interest rates still relatively high and economic uncertainty lingering, capital expenditures will need strong justification, emphasizing ROI and long-term cost reductions.Workforce & Hiring Challenges – The talent shortage remains one of the biggest obstacles for manufacturing organizations. While many companies are investing in workforce development and training, the gap between available talent and industry demand continues to widen. The increasing complexity of industrial automation systems, combined with the push toward IT-OT integration, is making it even harder to find individuals with the right mix of skills. This challenge is particularly evident in sectors that require highly specialized knowledge, such as SCADA, MES, and industrial cybersecurity.IT & Digital Transformation – More manufacturers are accelerating their adoption of cloud computing, IIoT, and advanced analytics, yet IT departments are often understaffed and struggling to implement these technologies effectively. The ongoing debate over who owns industrial data—IT or OT—continues to create friction in many organizations. Additionally, IT teams are being tasked with addressing growing cybersecurity risks, particularly as legacy systems remain vulnerable and require modernization.Sales & Marketing in Industrial Automation – As the industry becomes more competitive, companies selling hardware, software, and integration services must refine their messaging to better communicate value to specific audiences. Instead of broad, generic marketing efforts, more targeted, technical content and direct engagement with decision-makers will be key. The challenge lies in translating technical capabilities into business outcomes, ensuring that sales strategies align with the evolving priorities of manufacturing leaders.Operations & Production Management – The pressures on operations teams remain as high as ever. Whether due to supply chain fluctuations, increased product customization demands, or workforce shortages, maintaining efficiency while improving uptime is becoming increasingly complex. The role of data-driven decision-making in operations is expanding, with more companies seeking to optimize production through real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance strategies. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that frontline workers and plant managers have access to actionable insights rather than overwhelming amounts of raw data.Additionally, Dave and Vlad outline their plans for attending major industry events in 2025, including Automate, Hannover Messe, Ignition Community Conference, and the Prove It Conference. While their focus will be on attending key events rather than producing content at every trade show, they emphasize the importance of staying engaged with industry developments and fostering in-person conversations.This episode serves as a comprehensive preview of what to expect in manufacturing, automation, and industrial technology in 2025. The year ahead promises to be one of both challenges and opportunities, with companies navigating economic pressures, workforce shortages, and the rapid evolution of digital manufacturing technologies.Join us as we set the stage for 2025, explore what's ahead, and continue the conversation on how manufacturers can adapt, innovate, and stay competitive in an increasingly complex landscape.******Connect with UsVlad RomanovDave GriffithManufacturing HubSolisPLCJoltek

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, recorded live at ICC 2023, hosts Dave and Vlad welcome back James Burnand, CEO of 4IR Solutions, to discuss IT-OT convergence, the role of 4IR Solutions in the Ignition Community, and key takeaways from Ignition 8.3.4IR Solutions and IT-OT Convergence4IR Solutions is a Solutions Partner within the Ignition Community, focusing on OT as a Service to help manufacturers manage patching, security, and system monitoring—common pain points for system integrators. Ignition has evolved from a SCADA tool to a data-centric platform that facilitates enterprise-wide connectivity.James explains that IT and OT have historically operated in silos, but the adoption of Docker and Kubernetes in industrial environments is breaking these barriers. Traditional OT systems prioritize stability and uptime, while IT is focused on scalability and security. The challenge is implementing modern IT principles in an OT-friendly way.Key Features of Ignition 8.3The Ignition 8.3 update introduces file-based gateway configurations, making automation and scaling more efficient for system integrators. New drawing tools and event streams enhance real-time data visualization and workflow automation. Additionally, Helm charts offer enterprises a better way to manage large-scale deployments.Bridging the IT-OT DivideJames highlights the organizational challenges of IT-OT convergence, noting that many manufacturers lack dedicated IT-OT professionals. 4IR Solutions often serves as a mediator between IT and OT teams, helping ensure security, compliance, and operational stability while enabling modernization efforts.Takeaways from ICC 2023James praises ICC's community-driven atmosphere, where integrators, end users, and Inductive Automation's leadership openly share knowledge. The collaborative nature of the conference allows for real-time feedback, which directly influences Ignition's ongoing development.Looking Ahead4IR Solutions is leveraging Ignition 8.3 to improve automation, reduce costs, and enhance scalability for its customers. As IT-OT integration continues to evolve, manufacturers must embrace flexibility, security, and data-driven decision-making to stay competitive.References from the Episode4IR Solutions (James Burnand, CEO)Ignition by Inductive Automation (SCADA, MES, Unified Namespace)Docker & Kubernetes in Industrial AutomationHelm Charts & Enterprise Deployment StrategiesIT-OT Convergence & Security in OT EnvironmentsThis version keeps the depth while making it easier to read. Let me know if you need further refinements.******Connect with UsVlad RomanovDave GriffithManufacturing HubSolisPLCJoltek

Guest: Fahad Mughal, Senior Cyber Solutions Architect - SecurityOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/fahadmughal/____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesModern railway systems are increasingly digital, integrating operational technology (OT) to enhance efficiency, reliability, and safety. However, as railways adopt automated and interconnected systems, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. In this episode of Redefining Cybersecurity on ITSP Magazine, host Sean Martin speaks with Fahad Ali Mughal, a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in OT security architecture, about the challenges and priorities of securing railway infrastructure.The Growing Role of Cybersecurity in RailwaysRailway systems have evolved from steam-powered locomotives to autonomous, driverless trains that rely on sophisticated digital controls. OT now plays a crucial role in managing train operations, signaling, interlocking, and trackside equipment. These advancements improve efficiency but also expose railway networks to cyber threats that can disrupt service, compromise safety, and even impact national security. Unlike traditional IT environments, where the focus is on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA), OT in railways prioritizes reliability, availability, and public safety. Ensuring the safe movement of trains requires a cybersecurity strategy tailored to the unique needs of railway infrastructure.Critical OT Systems in RailwaysMughal highlights key OT components in railways that require cybersecurity protection:• Signaling Systems: These function like traffic lights for trains, ensuring safe distances between locomotives. Modern communication-based train control (CBTC) and European Rail Traffic Management Systems (ERTMS) are vulnerable to cyber intrusions.• Interlocking Systems: These systems prevent conflicting train movements, ensuring safe operations. As they become digitized, cyber risks increase.• Onboard OT Systems: Automatic Train Control (ATC) regulates speed and ensures compliance with signaling instructions. A cyberattack could manipulate these controls.• SCADA Systems: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems oversee infrastructure operations. Any compromise here can impact an entire railway network.• Safety-Critical Systems: Fail-safe mechanisms like automatic braking and failover controls are vital in preventing catastrophic accidents.The increasing digitization and interconnection of these systems expand the attack surface, making cybersecurity a top priority for railway operators.Real-World Cyber Threats in RailwaysMughal discusses several significant cyber incidents that highlight vulnerabilities in railway cybersecurity:• 2023 Poland Attack: Nation-state actors exploited vulnerabilities in railway radio communication systems to send unauthorized emergency stop commands, halting trains across the country. The attack exposed weaknesses in authentication and encryption within OT communication protocols.• 2021 Iran Railway Incident: Hackers breached Iran's railway scheduling and digital message board systems, displaying fake messages and causing widespread confusion. While safety-critical OT systems remained unaffected, the attack disrupted operations and damaged public trust.• 2016 San Francisco Muni Ransomware Attack: A ransomware attack crippled the fare and scheduling system, leading to free rides for passengers and operational delays. Though IT systems were the primary target, the impact on OT operations was evident.These incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger authentication, encryption, and IT-OT segmentation to protect railway infrastructure.Cybersecurity Standards and Best Practices for Railways (links to resources below)To build resilient railway cybersecurity, Mughal emphasizes the importance of international standards:• IEC 62443: A globally recognized framework for securing industrial control systems, widely applied to OT environments, including railways. It introduces concepts such as network segmentation, risk assessment, and security levels.• TS 50701: A European standard specifically designed for railway cybersecurity, expanding on IEC 62443 with guidance for securing signaling, interlocking, and control systems.• EN 50126 (RAMS Standard): A safety-focused standard that integrates reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety (RAMS) into railway operations.Adopting these standards helps railway operators establish secure-by-design architectures that mitigate cyber risks.Looking Ahead: Strengthening Railway CybersecurityAs railway systems become more automated and interconnected with smart cities, vehicle transportation, and supply chain networks, cyber threats will continue to grow. Mughal stresses the need for industry collaboration between railway engineers and cybersecurity professionals to ensure that security is integrated into every stage of railway system design.He also emphasizes the importance of real-time OT threat monitoring, anomaly detection, and Security Operations Centers (SOCs) that understand railway-specific cyber risks. The industry must stay ahead of adversaries by adopting proactive security measures before a large-scale cyber incident disrupts critical transportation networks.The conversation makes it clear: cybersecurity is now a fundamental part of railway safety and reliability. As Mughal warns, it's not a question of if railway cyber incidents will happen, but when.To hear the full discussion, including insights into OT vulnerabilities, real-world case studies, and cybersecurity best practices, listen to this episode of Redefining Cybersecurity on ITSP Magazine.___________________________SponsorsImperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3ThreatLocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:

Guest: Fahad Mughal, Senior Cyber Solutions Architect - SecurityOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/fahadmughal/____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesModern railway systems are increasingly digital, integrating operational technology (OT) to enhance efficiency, reliability, and safety. However, as railways adopt automated and interconnected systems, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. In this episode of Redefining Cybersecurity on ITSP Magazine, host Sean Martin speaks with Fahad Ali Mughal, a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in OT security architecture, about the challenges and priorities of securing railway infrastructure.The Growing Role of Cybersecurity in RailwaysRailway systems have evolved from steam-powered locomotives to autonomous, driverless trains that rely on sophisticated digital controls. OT now plays a crucial role in managing train operations, signaling, interlocking, and trackside equipment. These advancements improve efficiency but also expose railway networks to cyber threats that can disrupt service, compromise safety, and even impact national security. Unlike traditional IT environments, where the focus is on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA), OT in railways prioritizes reliability, availability, and public safety. Ensuring the safe movement of trains requires a cybersecurity strategy tailored to the unique needs of railway infrastructure.Critical OT Systems in RailwaysMughal highlights key OT components in railways that require cybersecurity protection:• Signaling Systems: These function like traffic lights for trains, ensuring safe distances between locomotives. Modern communication-based train control (CBTC) and European Rail Traffic Management Systems (ERTMS) are vulnerable to cyber intrusions.• Interlocking Systems: These systems prevent conflicting train movements, ensuring safe operations. As they become digitized, cyber risks increase.• Onboard OT Systems: Automatic Train Control (ATC) regulates speed and ensures compliance with signaling instructions. A cyberattack could manipulate these controls.• SCADA Systems: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems oversee infrastructure operations. Any compromise here can impact an entire railway network.• Safety-Critical Systems: Fail-safe mechanisms like automatic braking and failover controls are vital in preventing catastrophic accidents.The increasing digitization and interconnection of these systems expand the attack surface, making cybersecurity a top priority for railway operators.Real-World Cyber Threats in RailwaysMughal discusses several significant cyber incidents that highlight vulnerabilities in railway cybersecurity:• 2023 Poland Attack: Nation-state actors exploited vulnerabilities in railway radio communication systems to send unauthorized emergency stop commands, halting trains across the country. The attack exposed weaknesses in authentication and encryption within OT communication protocols.• 2021 Iran Railway Incident: Hackers breached Iran's railway scheduling and digital message board systems, displaying fake messages and causing widespread confusion. While safety-critical OT systems remained unaffected, the attack disrupted operations and damaged public trust.• 2016 San Francisco Muni Ransomware Attack: A ransomware attack crippled the fare and scheduling system, leading to free rides for passengers and operational delays. Though IT systems were the primary target, the impact on OT operations was evident.These incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger authentication, encryption, and IT-OT segmentation to protect railway infrastructure.Cybersecurity Standards and Best Practices for Railways (links to resources below)To build resilient railway cybersecurity, Mughal emphasizes the importance of international standards:• IEC 62443: A globally recognized framework for securing industrial control systems, widely applied to OT environments, including railways. It introduces concepts such as network segmentation, risk assessment, and security levels.• TS 50701: A European standard specifically designed for railway cybersecurity, expanding on IEC 62443 with guidance for securing signaling, interlocking, and control systems.• EN 50126 (RAMS Standard): A safety-focused standard that integrates reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety (RAMS) into railway operations.Adopting these standards helps railway operators establish secure-by-design architectures that mitigate cyber risks.Looking Ahead: Strengthening Railway CybersecurityAs railway systems become more automated and interconnected with smart cities, vehicle transportation, and supply chain networks, cyber threats will continue to grow. Mughal stresses the need for industry collaboration between railway engineers and cybersecurity professionals to ensure that security is integrated into every stage of railway system design.He also emphasizes the importance of real-time OT threat monitoring, anomaly detection, and Security Operations Centers (SOCs) that understand railway-specific cyber risks. The industry must stay ahead of adversaries by adopting proactive security measures before a large-scale cyber incident disrupts critical transportation networks.The conversation makes it clear: cybersecurity is now a fundamental part of railway safety and reliability. As Mughal warns, it's not a question of if railway cyber incidents will happen, but when.To hear the full discussion, including insights into OT vulnerabilities, real-world case studies, and cybersecurity best practices, listen to this episode of Redefining Cybersecurity on ITSP Magazine.___________________________SponsorsImperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3ThreatLocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:

Welcome back to Manufacturing Hub. In this episode, we sit down with Kent Melville, Director of Sales Engineering at Inductive Automation, to explore career growth, sales engineering, and the evolving landscape of industrial automation.Kent shares his fascinating journey, starting as a computer science graduate with a background in web development, ERP systems, and industrial automation before making his way into Inductive Automation. He takes us through the challenges and opportunities he encountered as he transitioned from technical roles into sales engineering, growing from one of the first hires in his division to leading a 30-plus-person team today.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeKent explains the role of a sales engineer and how it differs from traditional technical sales. He breaks down how sales engineers bridge technical expertise and customer engagement, ensuring that solutions meet real-world manufacturing challenges. He also discusses the growth of Inductive Automation, the company culture that has fueled his success, and how the Ignition platform has shaped the industrial automation industry.Another key topic in this discussion is the Ignition Community Conference (ICC), which has become a central event for the Ignition ecosystem. Kent shares how the Build-a-Thon, a live competition where integrators showcase their automation skills, became a major attraction and why it highlights the true power of rapid development with Ignition.Insights on Future Industry TrendsKent provides his perspective on where the industry is heading, especially in terms of IT-OT convergence. He discusses how containerization and DevOps principles are making their way into manufacturing and why version control and structured deployments will become the norm. He also shares insights on how Ignition's flexibility enables organizations to modernize their operations and prepare for the future.Career Lessons and Key TakeawaysThis episode is filled with valuable career advice for engineers and professionals looking to move into sales or leadership roles. Kent emphasizes the importance of working for a company that aligns with your goals rather than constantly chasing small pay increases. He discusses the need for clear communication, initiative, and the ability to adapt to different work styles.For those considering a transition from technical roles to sales engineering, Kent breaks down the key skills required, the training process, and how Inductive Automation prepares its team members for success. He also highlights the importance of building a reputation within an organization, taking on new challenges, and creating opportunities through proactive engagement.Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Fun MomentsBeyond the technical and career discussions, Kent shares some of the most entertaining moments from his time at Inductive Automation. He talks about how an impromptu on-stage rap performance during an Ignition product launch unexpectedly boosted his visibility within the company. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at how Inductive Automation uses its own software for internal processes, from CRM and training to office automation.Who Should Watch This Episode?This conversation is ideal for industrial professionals looking to understand the role of sales engineering, engineers considering a move into customer-facing roles, and manufacturing leaders exploring Ignition's capabilities. It also offers practical career insights for anyone looking to grow within their organization and stand out in the industry.If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments. Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow Manufacturing Hub for weekly conversations on manufacturing, automation, and technology.******Connect with UsVlad RomanovDave GriffithManufacturing HubSolisPLCJoltekReferences1. Inductive Automation & Ignition SCADAInductive Automation - Official Websitehttps://inductiveautomation.com/Ignition SCADA - Overview & Featureshttps://inductiveautomation.com/scada/Download Ignition (Free Trial & Maker Edition for Personal Use)https://inductiveautomation.com/downloads/Ignition Exchange (Free Industrial Automation Templates & Modules)https://inductiveautomation.com/exchange/Ignition Community Conference (ICC) – Annual Conferencehttps://inductiveautomation.com/resources/icc/Inductive Automation's YouTube Channel (Webinars, Case Studies, Training)https://www.youtube.com/@InductiveAutomation2. Sales Engineering & Career DevelopmentThe Sales Engineer Handbook: A Guide to Sales Engineering & Technical Sales (Patrick Pissang)https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Engineer-Handbook-Technical-Engineering/dp/3982171402Mastering Technical Sales: The Sales Engineer's Handbook (John Care, Aron Bohlig)https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Technical-Sales-Engineers-Handbook/dp/1608324262Harvard Business Review - What Makes a Great Sales Engineer?https://hbr.org/2019/04/what-makes-a-great-sales-engineerLinkedIn Sales Engineering Community – Discussions, Networking, and Career Advicehttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/8948750/3. IT-OT Convergence & Industrial Automation TrendsISA (International Society of Automation) – IT-OT Convergence Resourceshttps://www.isa.org/topics/it-ot-convergenceIndustrial DevOps and Containerization in Manufacturing (Inductive Automation Blog)https://inductiveautomation.com/resources/article/modernizing-scada-with-devops/Understanding Unified Namespace (UNS) and MQTT for Industrial Automationhttps://cirrus-link.com/what-is-unified-namespace/ISA-95 Standard – Best Practices for IT and OT Integrationhttps://www.isa.org/standards-and-publications/isa-standards/isa-954. Home Automation & Ignition for Personal UseIgnition Maker Edition (Free Version for Personal & Home Automation Projects)https://inductiveautomation.com/ignition/maker-edition/Home Automation with Ignition - Community Projects & Discussionshttps://forum.inductiveautomation.com/tags/home-automationTravis Cox on Using Ignition for Smart Home Automation (Podcast)https://www.theautomatorpodcast.com/episodes/travis-cox-home-automation-ignition5. Kent Melville & Inductive Automation SocialsKent Melville on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kentmelville/Inductive Automation on LinkedIn

Munster Technological University's Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering hosted the first national PowerGRID2025 conference in the Bishopstown Campus last week. The event attracted 100 registered delegates from a wide range of power industries, technology and energy sectors to explore the challenges and opportunities of an evolving power grid. The high attendance reflects the importance of innovation and digitisation required for Ireland's grid infrastructure upgrade that is essential for the state to meet its energy transition goals. The power grid is undergoing a monumental transformation to meet growing electricity demands while supporting ambitious climate action goals. The goals include: Targeting a 51% reduction in emissions by 2030 through the Climate Action Plan. Increasing Ireland's power system from 75% integration of renewable energy sources will increase this to 95% by 2030. Ensure the modernised power grid must also support a projected increase in Irish electricity demand from 33 terawatt hours (TWh) in 2022 to 56 TWh by 2030 and 80TWh in 2050. To support this growth the electricity grid requires significant upgrades with a growing need for skilled professionals in designing, developing, and operating modern grid systems. MTU, with the support of industrial partners, has heavily invested in its power engineering training facilities, and the first graduate class from the MTU, Springboard Supported Postgraduate Certificate in Smart Sustainable Power Engineering, presented their work at the conference. This upskilling comes at a critical time as the digital technologies in modern grid and substation design require engineers to span both electronic, communication, cybersecurity and electrical engineering domains at a level not previously supported in university programmes. Commenting on the event, Ross Kelly, H&MV, said, "The skills needed to engineer a modern digital substation are so broad that no one person could know it all, so a new role is needed for a system integrator. This person needs to know a little bit about power systems, AC/DC, Battery/UPS, primary and secondary equipment, SCADA, protection schemes, networking, cyber and Level 3 and 4 commissioning.." Applications for the 2025 delivery of this programme are now open at https://springboardcourses.ie/details/13707.

This episode of the Cybersecurity Defenders podcast is a two-part mini-series about the greatest cyber attack ever conceived: Stuxnet. Joining to help us tell the story is Kim Zetter, Journalist and Author - Countdown to Zero Day: Stuxnet and the Launch of the World's First Digital Weapon. Stuxnet is a malicious computer worm first uncovered in 2010 and thought to have been in development since at least 2005. Stuxnet targets supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems and is believed to be responsible for causing substantial damage to the nuclear program of Iran. Although neither country has openly admitted responsibility, the worm is widely understood to be a cyberweapon built jointly by the United States and Israel in a collaborative effort known as Operation Olympic Games. The program, started during the Bush administration, was rapidly expanded within the first months of Barack Obama's presidency. This episode was written by Nathaniel Nelson, narrated by Christopher Luft, and produced by the team at LimaCharlie.

Podcast: Nexus: A Claroty Podcast (LS 32 · TOP 5% what is this?)Episode: Noam Moshe on the IOCONTROL MalwarePub date: 2024-12-19Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationClaroty Team82 researcher Noam Moshe joins the Nexus Podcast to discuss the IOCONTROL malware used by an Iranian APT actor known as the CyberAv3ngers to target civilian critical infrastructure in the U.S. and Israel. The malware acts as a Linux-based backdoor and has a modular configuration that can be adapted for IoT, OT, and SCADA devices. Read Team82's research blog: "Inside a New OT/IoT Cyberweapon: IONCONTROL"Listen and subscribe to the Nexus Podcast here.The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Claroty, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

Claroty Team82 researcher Noam Moshe joins the Nexus Podcast to discuss the IOCONTROL malware used by an Iranian APT actor known as the CyberAv3ngers to target civilian critical infrastructure in the U.S. and Israel. The malware acts as a Linux-based backdoor and has a modular configuration that can be adapted for IoT, OT, and SCADA devices. Read Team82's research blog: "Inside a New OT/IoT Cyberweapon: IONCONTROL"Listen and subscribe to the Nexus Podcast here.

Oil and gas managers often view every decision as high-stakes and irreversible, but in the digital world, not all choices carry that weight. Jeff Bezos's concept of “Type One” (irreversible) and “Type Two” (reversible) decisions offers a powerful framework for rethinking decision-making in the energy sector. While some digital investments—like SCADA integrations or major cybersecurity upgrades—are genuine Type One decisions requiring caution, many can be structured to minimize risk. In this episode, I explore practical approaches like pilots, modular designs, and SaaS solutions that help reframe digital investments as low-risk, high-reward opportunities. By distinguishing between true Type One decisions and those that only seem that way, oil and gas companies can accelerate adoption cycles, manage risk effectively, and unlock value faster. Additional Tools & Resources:

This month, System Control Manager Kerry Spicer details what SCADA is and his department's role during power restoration.

Industrial Talk is onsite at IoT Solutions World Congress and talking to Tom Mack and Darin Briskman with Imply about "Your IoT strategy begins and ends with data and ability to access the insights". Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast from the IoT Solutions World Congress in Barcelona, featuring Darin and Tom from Imply. Imply specializes in real-time analytics for IoT data, offering a database that integrates data from various sources for end-to-end solutions. They emphasize the importance of collecting and analyzing data in real-time to improve efficiency and decision-making in manufacturing and other industries. They discuss the challenges of dealing with large volumes of data, the need for clean data, and the role of historical data in contextualizing current events. The conversation also touches on the importance of user-relevant data presentation and the evolving landscape of IoT and SCADA systems. Action Items [ ] Reach out to Tom (VP of EMEA at Imply) to learn more about Imply's offerings. [ ] Connect with Darin (Imply) on LinkedIn to discuss potential use cases and solutions. [ ] Visit Imply's website (imply.io) to download whitepapers and case studies. Outline Overview of Imply and IoT Data Analytics Darin explains the concept of IoT, emphasizing the importance of data in managing physical assets. The discussion highlights the two main challenges: acquiring data and utilizing it effectively. Imply focuses on real-time analytics and provides a database designed for IoT, offering an end-to-end solution. Scott acknowledges the importance of data and asks for more details about Imply's offerings and partnerships. Tom's Role and Use Cases Tom introduces himself as the VP of EMEA for Imply, responsible for sales and implementations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Scott inquires about the use cases and how Imply's solutions can benefit manufacturers. Darin elaborates on the importance of real-time data for quality control, supply chain management, and decision-making. The discussion includes the need for technical infrastructure to handle streamed data and provide real-time visualization and automated alerts. Normalizing and Utilizing Data Scott asks about normalizing data from multiple vendors and relationships. Tom confirms that Imply can handle data from various sources, including IoT devices, climate data, and partner supply chains. The importance of understanding and addressing issues in real-time is emphasized to prevent negative impacts on customers and reputation. Scott inquires about customization versus standardization, and Tom explains the standardization of data collection and processing methods. Historical vs. Real-Time Data Scott and Darin discuss the importance of real-time data over historical data for decision-making. Darin explains that while historical data can provide context, the focus should be on current data to address immediate issues. Tom shares examples of clients who had to clean up historical data to make it usable for real-time analysis. The discussion highlights the need for fast aggregation and roll-ups to make large volumes of data manageable for human analysis. IoT and SCADA Systems Scott and Darin discuss the evolution of SCADA systems and their role in managing industrial systems....

On this episode of Crazy Wisdom, host Stewart Alsop is joined by Dr. David Ulrich Ziegler, an independent consultant specializing in the intersection of cyber and physical utility systems. The conversation spans a range of topics including the intricacies of power grids, the historical evolution of electrical systems, and the future of energy, touching on nuclear power, solar panels, and the emerging role of AI in managing these critical infrastructures. David shares insights into the resilience of systems, lessons from nature for system design, and the potential of decentralization versus centralized control. For more on David's work, you can find him on LinkedIn or connect via his Twitter handle @denersec.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast00:21 Understanding Cyber Physical Utility Systems01:52 Historical Context of Electrical Grids03:14 Alternating Current vs. Direct Current07:00 Home Electrical Systems and Safety10:11 Technological Leapfrogging and Starlink15:35 The Impact of Internet Connectivity on Society19:36 AI and the Future of Physical Systems21:20 The Evolution of SCADA Systems28:48 Nuclear Power and Decarbonization34:23 The Promise and Challenges of Small Modular Reactors36:33 Geopolitical Influences on Nuclear Power41:15 AI and the Electrification of Knowledge Work44:19 AI's Impact on Professional Workflows48:27 Connecting Data Centers to the Grid53:43 Resilience and Organic Computing in Power Systems01:03:10 The Future of Solar Panels and Energy Independence01:09:19 Concluding Thoughts and Future EpisodesKey InsightsThe Intersection of Cyber and Physical Utility Systems: Dr. David Ziegler emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of cyber and physical systems in modern utilities. These systems, often referred to as cyber-physical systems, blend physical infrastructure, such as power grids, with advanced control and automation technologies. Historically, this integration has roots in SCADA systems, which were among the first examples of distributed computing, and remains crucial for ensuring resilience and operational efficiency in today's energy networks.The Historical Foundations of Electrical Systems: The episode highlights key moments in the evolution of electrical infrastructure, from the early debates between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) to the development of distributed control in power systems. Ziegler discusses how early technological decisions and innovations shaped the global grid, setting the stage for the modern challenges of integrating renewable energy and decentralized energy systems.The Promise and Challenges of Nuclear Energy: Ziegler provides a balanced perspective on nuclear power, acknowledging its potential as a low-carbon energy source but highlighting challenges such as high costs, public fear, and the complexities of large-scale projects. He notes the emerging interest in modular reactors, which aim to reduce costs and improve scalability, but stresses that their real-world impact is still to be proven.The Role of Renewable Energy and Storage: A major focus is on the rapid advancements in renewable energy, particularly solar power, and the associated need for effective storage solutions. Ziegler explains the dramatic drop in costs for lithium-ion batteries, making short-term energy storage more viable. However, he underscores the ongoing challenge of developing affordable long-term and seasonal storage technologies to support a 100% renewable energy system.Data Centers as Emerging Energy Consumers: The growing demand for electricity from data centers, especially those supporting AI technologies, is a significant trend discussed in the episode. Ziegler points out that data centers could consume up to 8-9% of total electricity in regions like Europe and the U.S. by 2030, driven by the energy-intensive nature of AI computations. This shift necessitates innovative approaches to grid connectivity and efficiency.Decentralization vs. Centralization in Grid Design: The debate over centralized versus decentralized energy systems is a recurring theme. Ziegler explains how historical constraints on communication bandwidth led to resilient, distributed architectures in power grids. He advocates for hybrid systems that balance centralized control with localized decision-making, drawing inspiration from biological systems like the human body for their adaptability and resilience.The Global Energy Transition and Geopolitical Risks: The episode explores the geopolitical dimensions of the energy transition, including dependencies on materials like lithium and solar panel production concentrated in regions like China. Ziegler argues that while local renewable energy generation reduces reliance on external energy sources, the global supply chain for components remains a vulnerability. He also emphasizes the need for greater resilience and strategic planning to navigate potential disruptions.

Check out this episode from the SWN vault, originally published on February 21, 2019! This Secure Digital Life episode was hand-picked by main host Doug White. Doug is at Vale and Russ is in charge of the show this week! Russ talks about his terms and acronyms. Russ talks about: DHCP, DNS, IP, USB, IEEE, SCADA, IoT, Internet of Things, Philips Hue, Zwave/Zigbee Homekit tech. Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/vault-swn-22

This is a special encore presentation of our #3 most popular episode of 2024! As advancements in cybersecurity have improved detection and response capabilities, managing the immense amounts of data required by AI-based cyber solutions remains a challenge. So, in this episode, we chat about how edge computing can enhance cybersecurity. Executive Editor Theresa Houck is joined by Valerie Schneider, Business Development Manager and Mike Wurster, Director of Strategic Alliances with Stratus Technologies to discuss: The biggest cyberthreats facing manufacturers & producers. How industrial firms can deal with these cyberthreats. How AI can be integrated with existing OT security technologies & processes to provide a comprehensive Defense-in-Depth strategy. How AI can enhance threat detection & response in OT environments. Best practices for improving cybersecurity. How edge computing & virtualization let users consolidate multiple applications on a single platform, allowing cybersecurity protocols to integrate with applications like HMI, SCADA, MES and batching. How to balance security measures with usability & productivity. Steps for improving OT cybersecurity without significant investment or disruption to operations. You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/0kQ1c3z36MM. Resources from this episode: Stratus & Rockwell Automation Partnership: “Together, Simplifying Edge Computing for the Connected Enterprise.” Analyst Brief: “Virtualization with Stratus Zero-Touch Computing Platforms.” White Paper: “Edge Computing Bridges IT and OT People, Process, and Technology.” Email Valerie Schneider at valerie.schneider@stratus.com. Email Mike Wurster at mike.wurster@stratus.com. Please tap the Share icon to share this episode with peers who would benefit from the information. And kindly give us a 5-star rating and a review. Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. Find us on YouTube. Find us on LinkedIn. Find us on Facebook. Find us on X (Twitter). ** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat dives into key considerations for alarm management in pipeline operations, drawing on his years of personal experience. The episode covers the challenges of defining alarm severity, rationalizing alarms, and navigating the technical complexities of SCADA systems. Additionally, the episode highlights best practices for ensuring alarms are meaningful, prioritizing critical alarms, and optimizing SCADA for effective alarm management. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

Is your shop floor as secure as you think it is? Innovation in the manufacturing world has made IT-OT convergence much more commonplace today, but is the industry taking the potential risks seriously enough? In this episode, we hear from Fortinet's Director of Marketing for OT Solutions, Rich Springer, about the real threats facing manufacturers within OT networks, and why effective OT security is a non-negotiable today...Rich brings bags of experience to the table, from his early days in furniture and glass factories to his time as a Navy submarine officer and later as the global head of SCADA operations for a major wind turbine company. He shares how these experiences shaped his understanding of the unique cybersecurity challenges facing the manufacturing sector. Painting a picture of how an OT threat can bring production to a standstill, Rich recommends that manufacturers use tabletop exercises to assess risk points and their impact on the whole production line. Rich also explains that part of protecting your OT network is about getting IT and OT teams to work together, and he gives practical advice on how to bridge the gap.In this episode, find out:Rich explains Fortinet's position on OT network security We hear about Rich's diverse career background and how his previous roles prepared him for his role at Fortinet The current state of OT convergence and why companies are yet to take actionRich breaks the misconception that air gaps will protect manufacturers from digital threats Advice for better collaboration between IT and OT teams Rich explains why he's optimistic that manufacturers are paying attention to the right things in securityWhat the report says about manufacturers and their approach to OT systems todayWhat it takes for cybersecurity experts to get executives to pay attention to the threats facing OTHow to run a tabletop exercise to assess threat and impact on production What surprises Rich most about cybersecurity in manufacturing todayEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“The separation of duties should be decided on the tabletop exercise, not when the fire is burning.”“The technology has evolved. So therefore, it has made this air gap strategy a little less realistic over the years. And this is a common challenge.”“When the systems go down, they go to paper. So if the line hasn't stopped, what happens with our suppliers if we have to go paper? Take your tabletop exercise to that level.”Links & mentions:Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk, a report on how digital transformation in manufacturing has driven a widespread need for cybersecurity awareness2024 State of Operational Technology and Cybersecurity Report, Fortinet's report on OT cybersecurity Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.

The discussion with Todd Beckerdite, a Senior Manager of Maintenance Foundation at Ajinomoto Foods, focused on the integration of AI in maintenance and reliability. Richard Leurig highlighted the evolution of generative AI, emphasizing its seamless integration into workflows. Todd discussed the potential of AI in creating decision trees for maintenance, reducing downtime, and predictive maintenance. He also mentioned the importance of connecting older equipment to modern communication devices for data collection. The conversation also touched on the interplay of AI, IoT, and sustainability, and the need for accurate data gathering for regulatory reporting and energy efficiency. Action Items [ ] Investigate adopting AI technologies to help with maintenance tasks like decision trees for troubleshooting [ ] Continue conversations on how emerging AI capabilities can be integrated into day-to-day work without users knowing they interact with AI [ ] Evaluate ability to connect existing equipment sensors to gather more operational data for predictive maintenance Outline In the News: AI and Facilities Management Eric Cook introduces the episode and the guest, Todd Beckerdite, who is an expert in maintenance and operations. Richard Leurig discusses the evolution of generative AI (Gen AI) and its seamless integration into workflows. Richard inquires if AI will become so commonplace that users won't know they're interacting with it. Eric believes AI will become part of daily life, with future developments still to be seen. Challenges and Accuracy of AI in Maintenance Richard mentions issues with AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard, questioning how to ensure accuracy. Eric explains the evolution of AI models towards accuracy and the importance of getting information right in facilities management. Richard imagines AI tools helping with factory floor repairs, referencing Microsoft HoloLens. Eric agrees, noting AI's potential to summarize information from multiple sources and guide technicians. Todd Beckerdite on AI Adoption in Maintenance Richard introduces Todd Beckerdite and asks about AI adoption in maintenance and reliability. Todd Beckerdite mentions limited AI use in his company but expresses interest in AI for decision trees and troubleshooting. Todd discusses the potential for AI to reduce downtime by eliminating guesswork in maintenance. Todd also mentions VR in oil and gas and the military, suggesting AI could interface with VR for maintenance. Predictive Maintenance and IoT Integration Eric asks Todd about the interplay of AI, IoT, and other automation in predictive maintenance. Todd discusses the goal of true predictive maintenance and the current state of predictive technologies like SCADA, oil analysis, and vibration analysis. Todd emphasizes the need for AI to build its own upper and lower limits for alerts based on equipment performance. Todd highlights the importance of connecting older equipment to modern communication devices for data collection. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Richard and Todd discuss the integration of sustainability initiatives with predictive maintenance and energy usage. Todd explains Ajinomoto's initiatives to reduce energy footprint and waste, including recycling and optimizing utility bills. Todd inquires about the impact of equipment failures and replacements on sustainability. Todd mentions the company's efforts to recycle materials and reduce wastewater and food solids. Regulatory Reporting and Energy...