ISA Montréal Section: Cybersecurity panel

You are cordially invited to an in-person panel discussion about cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) systems. 

Agenda

• Monthly Section Meeting & Networking
  Connect with fellow automation professionals, system integrators, IT/OT specialists, and engineering managers over food and drinks. Discuss section activities, upcoming initiatives, and make new connections across the industry.

• Panel Discussion: Cybersecurity for OT Systems 
  • Moderator: Trung Nguyen, ing.
  • Panelists:
    • Daniel Sarrasin - EcoSysIP
    • Eric Labrie - Fortinet
    • George Oliveira - Hydro-Quebec
    • Gilles Léonard - BBA Consultants
    • Ron Brash - ISA member
    • Youssef Jad - CyVault
      

Cybersecurity has become a permanent part of our daily work in automation. Not because automation engineers suddenly became cybersecurity experts—but because control systems are no longer isolated, and the consequences of a cybersecurity failure now include production losses, safety risks, and regulatory exposure. Many of us here design, commission, operate, or maintain control systems that were originally built for availability and safety, not for constant connectivity or threat exposure.

Key Discussion Themes

• OT vs. IT Reality: Aligning plant operations with enterprise IT policies.
• Practical Standards: Applying ISA/IEC 62443 without over-complicating projects
• Lifecycle & Design: Embedding cybersecurity early to avoid costly retrofits
• Vendor & Remote Risk: Securing third-party access and operational blind spots
• Skills & Ownership: Defining OT risk accountability and essential engineering skills 

Perks: Appetizers and drink tickets provided for all participants. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions so we can accommodate your needs.

*Please note that this event has not been coordinated by the Concordia Career Centre- please direct all questions to the coordinators of the event.