2026 Agenda

Cybersecurity is well discussed across the IT industry; however, Mission Critical Technology systems, including Public Safety Communications, Utilities, Critical Infrastructure, and other Life Safety situations, have concerns that go beyond those of less critical enterprise systems. Organizations such as NIST, CISA, and others provide a wealth of information on technical solutions but often lacking clear direction on operational aspects.

This situation leaves the "technologists" doing what they do best, addressing technical solutions, without being fully aware of the need for operational and "cultural" enhancements. Those responsible for the cyber security of these systems require additional guidance to effectively develop and communicate a wholistic solution to their organizations. This session introduces the concept of a cultural shift, moving Cybersecurity from a technical issue to an operational one. An issue that involved the whole of the organization is a "cultural" manner.

Discussions will include bringing an understanding how Cybersecurity can be look at as a "safety" issue, much the way we look at work safety and fire safety. This shift helps organizations get out of the "one and done" thinking of fixing a technology "problem" and into a "ready for anything" mindset. We also discuss the disconnect between awareness of the problem, and the planning required to address cyber threats through the implementation of cultural, operational and technical cybersecurity protection, including cyber-attack mitigation as a "readiness" issue.

Takeaway

• This session helps build a clear understanding of the changes that have occurred in communications system architecture which raises the concern over cybersecurity issues. The participants will be better able to explain their need for cybersecurity within the organization they support.
• This session helps build the participants' understanding of the need for cybersecurity to be an integral component of not just their systems, but also of their processes and their culture. The participants will be better able to understand cybersecurity from a wholistic perspective.
• This session helps build an understanding of the sources of cybersecurity information and advice, and how to find those appropriate to your organization. The participants will be better prepared to effectively gather cybersecurity information relevant to the organization they support.