Transforming Manufacturing: Tackling Today’s Security Challenges with Advanced Solutions
In the latest Manufacturing Today webinar, industry experts gathered to explore the evolving cybersecurity landscape in manufacturing. Moderated by Andrew Delaney of Fine Light Media, the panel featured Cathy Olson (Director, Global Information at PACsize International), Tammy Klotz (Chief Information Security Officer at Trinseo), Jim Cooper (Director, Technology and Cybersecurity at Pavion), and Tyler Brown (Product Manager at Pavion). Together, they examined the growing complexity of securing operational technology (OT) environments, especially as legacy systems become increasingly connected to enterprise networks. The discussion highlighted the risks posed by outdated infrastructure, third-party access, and human error, as well as the regulatory pressures manufacturers face—particularly in high-stakes sectors like chemical production.
The panelists shared actionable strategies for enhancing security, including network segmentation, remote access controls, and AI-driven threat detection. They emphasized the importance of embedding security into every layer of the organization—from the factory floor to the executive boardroom—and advocated for continuous improvement through penetration testing, cross-functional collaboration, and automation. The conversation underscored the need for cultural change, where security is seen as a shared responsibility. Their collective advice to practitioners: focus on the fundamentals, engage stakeholders at all levels, and embrace AI and automation as essential tools in the fight against modern cyber threats.
