Rethinking Cybersecurity with an OT-First Approach
About This Session
Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity is not simply an extension of IT security—it is a distinct discipline with unique challenges and priorities. While IT security focuses on protecting data, OT security is about safeguarding physical processes, uptime, and human safety. Yet many organizations continue to rely on traditional IT tools that were never designed for the specialized protocols, legacy systems, and real-time demands of industrial environments. This misalignment leaves critical infrastructure exposed and decision-makers without the visibility or context needed to accurately assess risk. Without purpose-built OT cybersecurity solutions, leaders are often making strategic decisions based on incomplete or misleading information about their true security posture. To protect operations and ensure resilience, organizations must adopt an OT-first approach that aligns with the realities of industrial environments.
Speaker
Brian Deken
Sales Director, Industrial Cybersecurity - Rockwell Automation
Brian Deken is the Sales Director of Industrial Cybersecurity at Rockwell Automation, and has worked in automation for over 20 years in various roles involving sales, business development, business strategy, and professional services. Brian is a passionate customer advocate, focused on tangible results. His role today is responsible for evolving risk management and OT security solutions while working across a broad range of internal, partner, and customer stakeholders to deliver cybersecurity outcomes based on standards and best practices.
