Pete Mauro: Designing System Security Before ‘Cyber’ Became Part of Everyday Vocabulary

About Pete Mauro: Pete Mauro is a highly accomplished serial entrepreneur with extensive experience and successful exits in the defense industry. With a background spanning startups, system integrators, procurement, and program management, Pete is the CEO and Founder of DTCUBED, a startup consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity, predictive analytics, and digitally transformative technologies for defense and critical infrastructure markets. Prior to founding DTCUBED, he served as the Chief Innovation Officer and Chief Cyber Technology Officer for Gryphon Technologies, leading the company's technical advancements and marketing efforts. Pete's expertise in bringing technology to the federal market and aligning it with program requirements has earned him a reputation as a trusted partner. With over 33 years in the industry, Pete's strategic insight and tactical implementation have been instrumental in driving innovation and achieving success in various applications.In this episode, Aaron and Pete Mauro discuss:Cybersecurity in systems design and its parallels in critical infrastructure risk managementDemonstrating operational value in critical infrastructure cybersecurity and addressing the shortage of skilled engineersProactive and comprehensive conversations in cybersecurity for effective risk mitigationBuilding a pipeline for cybersecurity talentKey Takeaways:The transition from traditional risk management to incorporating cybersecurity into systems design is a natural progression, as both share the common goal of ensuring availability and security, despite different terminology and attack vectors.Operational value in cybersecurity for critical infrastructure requires a shift from fear-based tactics to tangible benefits, integrating cybersecurity as part of the solution, and investing in specialized training for skilled engineers who understand the unique challenges of OT and critical infrastructure.Having open discussions about cybersecurity with all stakeholders during the early stages of system design and implementation is crucial, as is the necessity for a wide range of tools to successfully combat cybersecurity risks and safeguard critical infrastructure.A strong cybersecurity talent pipeline is vital for addressing expertise shortages and protecting critical infrastructure. Collaboration between universities, industry, and government is crucial, as is effective communication among stakeholders.  "We have a shortage of talent, and I don't mean every engineer to be the cyber expert, but if we get every engineer coming out to try to understand security a little more, and then a pocket of those engineers become the expert." — Pete Mauro Connect with Pete Mauro:  Website: www.d-t3.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/petergmauroAn Opportunity’s Knockin’, Inc. (A O.K.): www.AnOppKnock.orgVert Properties, Inc.: www.vertproperties.comIncutate Workplace: www.Incutate.comConnect with Aaron:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrowLearn more about Industrial Defender:Website: https://www.industrialdefender.com/podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/industrial-defender-inc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/iDefend_ICSYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@industrialdefender7120Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.