Why naval architects can no longer treat cybersecurity as an afterthought

That shift will be the focus of the upcoming Marine Log and the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) virtual event, “From Regulation to Drawing Board: What USCG Cybersecurity Rules Mean for Vessel Design & Construction,” taking place 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.

As vessels become increasingly connected through integrated automation, operational technology and digital control systems, cybersecurity considerations are beginning to affect decisions traditionally associated with naval architecture and marine engineering.      The session will explore how new U.S. Coast Guard cybersecurity requirements are influencing vessel systems architecture, network segmentation, equipment integration and long-term lifecycle planning.      For naval architects and marine engineers, the discussion offers an opportunity to better understand how cybersecurity expectations are beginning to intersect with vessel design from the earliest project stages rather than later during operations or compliance reviews.

Topics will also include systems integration, operational technology, cyber resilience and the growing need for coordination between designers, system integrators, owners and shipyards throughout the vessel lifecycle.       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.

Naval architect and marine engineering attendees will also receive a Certificate of Attendance following the virtual event.