Episode: Building Trust and Bridging the Gap in OT and IT Cybersecurity
Pub date: 2025-06-02
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In this episode, host Aaron Crow sits down with Dean Parsons, one of the most recognized names in the OT and industrial control systems (ICS) security world, for a candid and insightful conversation.
Join Aaron and Dean as they explore what it truly takes to bridge the worlds of IT and OT. Drawing from decades of industry experience, their discussion covers everything from building trust across teams, to the superpower of understanding both operational technology and cybersecurity. Expect real-world stories, practical advice on breaking into OT cybersecurity, and memorable lessons from the plant floor to the boardroom.
They also break down what makes OT security fundamentally different from traditional IT approaches, why risk-based strategies are essential, and how building relationships, sometimes over donuts and coffee—can be just as important as deploying firewalls and patching systems. Whether you’re new to ICS and OT security, or a seasoned defender looking for fresh perspective, this episode brings actionable tips, honest assessments, and inspiration to help you better protect what matters most.
So grab your hard hat (and maybe a box of donuts!), and get ready for a masterclass on collaboration, building skills, and why trust is the real currency in the fight to secure our critical infrastructure.
Key Moments:
05:32 Listening Over Speaking in Legacy Spaces
07:01 IT Security Teamwork and Trust
11:21 Cost-Efficient ICS Security Solutions
15:42 Converging Skill Sets in IT Security
17:36 OT vs IT: Different Risks
22:28 Prioritizing Post-Assessment Actions
23:20 Prioritize SANS ICS Critical Controls
29:31 Engineering Perspective on Critical Assets
30:47 Detecting Misuse of Control Systems
35:52 Collaborative Incident Response Dynamics
39:03 Remote Hydroelectric Plant Journey
40:45 Building Trust with Baked Goods
44:55 "Safety Crucial in Facility Disruptions"
48:50 ICS Security: Closing Safety Gaps
53:37 Enhancing ICS Security Controls
57:18 "ICS Summit and LinkedIn Activities"
About the guest :
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