Operational Technology Cybersecurity: Transportation and Energy examines the cyber threats facing the operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS) that support critical transportation and energy infrastructure. The presentation explores how cyber incidents can impact safety, reliability, and service delivery, reviews current threat actors and attack methods, and discusses practical strategies for improving resilience and reducing cyber risk. Drawing from guidance developed by CISA, NIST, TSA, and industry partners, the session highlights foundational security practices for protecting cyber-physical systems and critical operations.

Who Should Attend:
This session is intended for transportation professionals, infrastructure owners and operators, utility personnel, emergency management officials, cybersecurity practitioners, engineers, IT and OT managers, public sector leaders, and anyone responsible for the security, reliability, or resilience of critical infrastructure systems.

Participant Benefits:
Attendees will gain a practical understanding of the OT threat landscape, common attack pathways, sector-specific risks, and proven defensive measures. Participants will leave with actionable insights for strengthening cybersecurity programs, improving operational resilience, and protecting essential transportation and energy services.

Biography:

John Harrison, CGCIO, CISM serves as the Cybersecurity State Coordinator for Virginia within the Integrated Operations Division of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In this role, he works closely with state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners to strengthen cybersecurity preparedness, critical infrastructure resilience, and incident response capabilities across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

With expertise in cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and critical infrastructure protection, Harrison helps organizations navigate emerging cyber threats and implement practical security measures to safeguard essential services. He frequently collaborates with government agencies, industry leaders, and infrastructure operators to promote cyber resilience, information sharing, and operational security best practices.

Holding the Certified Government Chief Information Officer (CGCIO) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credentials, Harrison brings extensive experience in public sector cybersecurity leadership and critical infrastructure security, helping organizations enhance their readiness against an increasingly complex threat landscape.