InfraGard Houston August Chapter Meeting

Attention InfraGard member,

DISCLAIMER: The information contained within this broadcast message belongs solely to the InfraGard National Members Alliance (INMA) and is not representative of the FBI.

You are invited to the August meeting of the Houston InfraGard Members Alliance to hear from InfraGard Houston President Marco Ayala who will discuss "Fortifying Critical Infrastructure: Secure Deployment Strategies for OT Control and Safety Systems" on August 20, 2025, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Central time.

OVERVIEW:

AGENDA:

11:30 am to 11:45 am-Opening Remarks

11:45 am to 12:00 pm-FBI Corner

12:00 pm to 12:50 pm-Presentation and Q&A

12:50 pm to 1:00 pm-Closing Remarks

SPEAKER:

Marco (Marc) Ayala, ISA Fellow, brings roughly three decades of expertise in designing, implementing, and securing process instrumentation, automation, safety systems, and process control networks. Known for his strategic vision and collaborative leadership, Marc drives innovation by developing resilient cybersecurity strategies for critical infrastructure, aligning with national security priorities. His extensive experience focuses on the oil and gas, maritime, offshore, and chemical sectors. As an ISA leader, cybersecurity advocate, President of InfraGard Houston, and USCG AMSC Cyber Chair for the Gulf of Mexico/America, Marc is a trusted voice in safeguarding vital systems.

ABSTRACT:

As industries increasingly rely on tightly integrated IT/OT environments, Secure-by-Deployment practices are essential to safeguard mission-critical operational technology (OT) control and safety systems. This talk examines the adoption of Secure by Design (SbD) principles amid evolving cyber threats, regulatory pressures, and the growing influence of aritificial intelligence (AI) across IT/OT boundaries. We will explore the dynamic interplay of people, processes, technology, and culture in achieving robust security, while addressing the challenge that today's secure designs may become tomorrow's vulnerabilities. Join us to unpack the technical complexities and strategies for resilient OT deployment.

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