Secure Tracks: Rail Tech Security Conversations

Eddy Thesee, VP of Products and Solutions Cybersecurity, Alstom, delves into the critical relationship between safety and security in the rail industry. Thesee discusses how safety has been the cornerstone of rail operations but highlights the emerging need to consider cybersecurity as a vital aspect of protecting rail tech environments from increasing cyber threats. Drawing parallels with safety practices, he and host Roark Pollock explore how cybersecurity is now becoming an integral part of the industry's DNA through standardization, skill development, and product advancements.

Join Christoffer Neesen, Senior Manager of OT Security at Deutsche Bahn, as he delves into the critical issue of managing the intersection of rail operations and cybersecurity in the age of digitalization. Neesen highlights the importance of organizational change when implementing effective cybersecurity practices within the railway industry and emphasizes the need for a holistic approach.

Hitachi Rail's Global Head of Digital Trains, Bruno Corasolla, explores cybersecurity's crucial role in the evolving world of rolling stock design. Addressing cyber threats has become paramount as digital systems increasingly integrate into rail operations. Bruno discusses the drivers behind this shift, the evolving regulatory landscape, and rail integrators' challenges.

In this Secure Tracks episode, we sit down with Bill Heinrich, a highly experienced professional in IT and cybersecurity within the rail industry. With over two decades of experience at prominent rail companies like Amtrak, BNSF Railway, and Union Pacific Railroad, Bill brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. In this episode, we explore the fascinating career journey of a rail industry Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and discuss the implementation of cybersecurity programs for operational rail tech environments.

Shaofei Huang, a seasoned CISO in the rail industry, shares his insights on the complex world of cybersecurity in rail. Huang sheds light on the unique challenges CISOs face in operational technology environments and highlights the need for prioritization and understanding of consequences. Pollock and Huang discuss the increasing threat landscape, with targeted attacks on transportation networks and railways becoming more prevalent.

In the first episode of Secure Tracks, Roark Pollock speaks with Dr. Mark Grant, a renowned rail cybersecurity leader who worked at CSX for 17 years, serving as the Chief Information Security Officer for 8 years. Mark discusses the three waves of digitalization in the rail industry and the impact of the most recent wave on operational rail technologies. The conversation touches upon government views and actions, including the recent TSA Security Directives and the upcoming rulemaking process.

The Secure Tracks podcast brings together cybersecurity experts from the rail industry to share their insights and expertise on managing risk and cybersecurity challenges unique to the rail industry. Hosted by Roark Pollock, each episode features one or two industry experts for a 30-45 minute conversation.