New USCG cybersecurity rules are reshaping vessel design

To examine how new U.S. Coast Guard cybersecurity requirements are affecting vessel design and construction, Marine Log and the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) will host the virtual event “From Regulation to Drawing Board: What USCG Cybersecurity Rules Mean for Vessel Design & Construction” on June 4 at 11 a.m. ET.  The event will open with a presentation by Gaute Hjellbakk Pettersen, head of group maritime technology, Vard Group AS.   The session will explore how cybersecurity is becoming a critical consideration not only for vessel operators, but also for naval architects, shipyards, system integrators and equipment suppliers as evolving regulations reshape expectations around onboard systems and operational technology.

Discussion topics will include vessel systems architecture, automation integration, network segmentation, lifecycle planning and project coordination across both newbuild and retrofit projects. The event will also examine the practical implications of the Coast Guard’s cybersecurity framework, including how stakeholders can better prepare for compliance while minimizing operational and project risk.  Speakers include Lt. William Quigley, vessel branch lead, Office of Maritime Cybersecurity Policy, U.S. Coast Guard; Cliff Neve, vice president of maritime cybersecurity, MAD Security; Ethan Trupia, senior marine electrical engineer, Boksa Marine Design; and Drew Orvieto, director of marine solutions, Siemens Energy. The panel discussion will be moderated by Scott Dickerson, founder and principal, CISO LLC.     As vessels become increasingly connected and reliant on integrated digital systems, the event will highlight why cybersecurity can no longer be viewed solely as an IT issue, but as a broader design, operational and business challenge affecting the maritime lifecycle.  Registration is now open.