Monday, 30 September

07:00-16:45
Registration

Registration Booth | Mezzanine | Francis Marion Hotel

08:00-15:00
Standards Meeting
ISA96, Valve Actuators
Upstairs Meeting Room | Virginia's on King
08:00-12:00
ISA Training - Day One
Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control Systems (IC32)
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Assessing the Cybersecurity of New Existing IACS Systems (IC33)
Rutledge Room | Francis Marion Hotel
ISA District Leadership Meetings
Closed sessions, by invitation only. Contact sections@isa.org for information.
Francis Marion Hotel
  • Eastern North America
  • Midwest North America
  • Southern North America
08:00-17:00
Standards Meeting
ISA88/WG2, Batch Control
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
12:00-13:00
Lunch
12:00-13:00
ISA Training - Lunch Break
13:00-17:00
ISA Training - Day One, Continued
Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control Systems (IC32)
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Assessing the Cybersecurity of New Existing IACS Systems (IC33)
Rutledge Room | Francis Marion Hotel
ISA District Leadership Meetings, Continued
Closed sessions, by invitation only. Contact sections@isa.org for information.
Francis Marion Hotel
  • Eastern North America
  • Midwest North America
  • Southern North America

Tuesday, 1 October

07:00-16:45
Registration

Registration Booth | Mezzanine | Francis Marion Hotel

08:00-17:00
ISCI F2F Meeting
Closed session.
Harborview Suite - #1204 | Francis Marion Hotel
08:00-11:00
ISA District Leadership Meetings
Closed sessions, by invitation only. Contact sections@isa.org for information.
Francis Marion Hotel
  • Eastern North America
  • Midwest North America
  • Southern North America
08:00-12:00
ISA Training - Day Two
Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control Systems (IC32)
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Assessing the Cybersecurity of New Existing IACS Systems (IC33)
Rutledge Room | Francis Marion Hotel
ISA Executive Board Meeting
Poinsette Room | Francis Marion Hotel
08:00-12:45
Standards Meeting
ISA88/WG2, Batch Control
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
12:00-13:00
ISA Training - Lunch Break
13:00-18:00
Standards Meeting
ISA96, Valve Actuators
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
13:00-17:00
ISA Training - Day Two, Continued
Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control Systems (IC32)
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Assessing the Cybersecurity of New Existing IACS Systems (IC33)
Rutledge Room | Francis Marion Hotel
ISA Volunteer Workshop
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
17:00-18:00
Welcome Reception
Lobby | Francis Marion Hotel
20:30-21:30
S.W.A.P. (Social With A Purpose) YP Mixer
Poinsette Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Wednesday, 2 October

07:00-16:45
Registration

Registration Booth | Mezzanine | Francis Marion Hotel

07:00-08:30
Networking Breakfast

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

08:00-15:00
Standards Meeting
ISA75, Control Valves
Upstairs Meeting Room | Virginia's on King
08:00-17:00
Standards Meeting
ISA101, HMI
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
08:30-09:15
Keynote
Beyond the Stars: How Digital Transformation is Shaping the Future of Space Exploration
Houston Green - 100x100Houston Green, Space Exploration Engineer, The Aerospace Corporation, NASA Johnson Space Center
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
 
 
 

Houston Green is the Human Surface Mobility and Extravehicular Activity Program Technical Leader for reduced gravity environments at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC). He manages cost, schedule, and upgrades for the Active Response Gravity Offload System (ARGOS) Project used in testing of the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) and space suits associated with the xEVAS contract and is currently writing system requirements for a host of new and innovative gravity offload capabilities to be used for testing and training of Astronauts within upcoming Artemis missions. Houston was previously a Designer and Operator on the ARGOS Project, where his team designed and are currently assembling the Next Generation ARGOS (AX3S) in the Building 9 Highbay at JSC.
09:15-09:30
Break
09:30-10:00
Technology Demonstration - Digital Transformation Track

Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presented by  Aris-Logo-250
Technology Demonstration - Cybersecurity Track

Navigating Evolving Cyber Threats: The Imperative for AI Integrated Security Operations for Critical Infrastructure
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presented by Fortinet-CMYK

Rod Locke - 100x10010Presenter: Rod Locke, Director, Product Management, Operational Technology

In the face of continually evolving cyber threats, industrial organizations are compelled to adopt automated analysis, orchestration, and response technologies, including the capabilities brought by Machine Learning (ML) and Generative AI. Integrating AI into security operations reduces alert fatigue and enables more efficient analysis and response to incidents. Leveraging AI integrated into a security platform enhances threat detection, incident response, and compliance assurance while lowering the total cost of ownership for SecOps infrastructure. 


Rod Locke has been in the OT security industry for over 15 years, working in vulnerability testing, OT-specific network security, and embedded product security in past roles at Wurldtech, GE Digital and Sierra Wireless. Rod is a Director of Product Management at Fortinet, focused on OT threat protection. 
10:00-10:30
Digital Transformation Track

The Current State of Industry 4.0
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Jeff Winters - 100pxPresenter: Jeff Winter, ISA Member

Explore how manufacturers can thrive in the era of industry 4.0 by capturing and harnessing the power of data to unlock innovation and deliver new revenue streams. This session will highlight the companies who are doing it best.


Jeff Winter is a globally recognized thought leader in Industry 4.0 and manufacturing, with over 55 million views of his content and 110k LinkedIn followers. Honored more than 25 times as a top expert in his field, Jeff excels at simplifying and communicating complex concepts to diverse audiences, from the shop floor to the executive boardroom. With nearly 20 years of experience in industrial automation, he is a passionate advocate for digital transformation. Jeff is also highly active in the Industry 4.0 community. He serves on the Executive board for the International Society of Automation (ISA), the International Board of Directors for MESA (Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association), a U.S. registered expert for the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) as a member of TC 65 and as a Smart Manufacturing Advisor to CESMII.

Cybersecurity Track

Beyond the Defense in Depth: The Artificial Intelligence Role in ICS Defense
Carolina Ballroom |  Francis Marion Hotel

Felipe Costa - 100pxPresenter: Felipe Costa, Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Moxa

Amidst the swift advancement of cyber threats, adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) within cybersecurity measures has transitioned from a mere advantage to an absolute necessity. This presentation will provide some of the current challenges and innovative solutions in the realm of industrial cybersecurity. Anchored on critical updates and insights from the latest industry trends and standards, this presentation emphasizes proactive defense mechanisms and effective incident response, with ISA/IEC 62443 as a foundational framework.  
 

Felipe Costa is the Cybersecurity Director and an official ISA/IEC 62443 industrial cybersecurity instructor at ISA (International Society of Automation) and EC Council (world's largest cyber security technical certification body). Additionally, he is a Sr. Product Marketing Manager at Moxa Americas, responsible for networking and cybersecurity in the US, Canada, and LATAM. He is also an international speaker, technical article writer, and SME (subject matter expert) in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).  
10:30-10:45
Break
10:45-11:15
Digital Transformation Track

Data Governance and Why Your Data Backend Matters
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Tom Hollingworth - 100x10013Presenter: Tom Hollingworth, Principal Consultant, Rhize Manufacturing Data Hub

In this session, we will explore the critical importance of robust data governance and its impact on your organization’s data backend. As data becomes the lifeblood of businesses, understanding how to harness and manage it effectively can make or break your company's success in today's digital age.


Tom Hollingworth is a proven manufacturing technologist specializing in filling gaps in traditional enterprise/factory floor integration. An expedited learner with an eye on future trends that embraces the customer’s view of what quality should really be.
Cybersecurity Track

Cyber Simulation in a Nuclear Power Plant
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Victor Alvarez - 100x100Presenter: Victor Alvarez, Information Security Analyst, TI Safe

The Xphir4 project is a sophisticated cyber-physical simulator developed by TI Safe Lab, designed to replicate the operational and security aspects of a nuclear power plant. Based on a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) model, the Xphir4 simulator integrates various hardware components, including Siemens PLCs (S7-1200), Scalance switches (XC208), and Fortigate firewalls (F60), utilizing communication protocols such as S7-COMM and Profinet. The project adheres to the ISA/IEC 62443 standards for securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS), ensuring that all phases of the plant's lifecycle—from design to operation—are covered under stringent cybersecurity measures. 


Victor Alvarez is a Computer Engineer and Industrial Automation Technician, specializing in automation processes for robotic systems and cybersecurity development.
11:15-11:30
Break
11:30-12:00
Digital Transformation Track
Introducing Generative AI to your Organization: How ISA is Driving Digital Transformation with Their New LLM, Mimo!
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Jason Wampler 100x100Presenter: Jason Wampler, Managing Director of Information Technology, ISA

In this captivating session, ISA’s own Jason Wampler will discuss the transformative power of Generative AI and its potential to revolutionize organizations across various industries. Jason will discuss how ISA is successfully leveraging their new Large Language Model (LLM) — Mimo — for digital transformation, and will explore the key strategies, challenges, and opportunities that arise when introducing Generative AI to your organization. Discover the tangible benefits of LLMs in optimizing workflows, enhancing customer experiences, and unlocking new business opportunities.


Jason Wampler, the Managing Director of IT for the International Society of Automation, boasts a successful career leading top-performing teams and deploying cutting-edge technology solutions. His vast experience spans project management, networking infrastructure, and business process enhancements. With a talent for harnessing emerging technologies like virtualization, cloud computing, and now AI to drive business growth and transformation, Jason is an industry leader in leveraging data-driven insights for operational efficiency. Holding certifications in Responsible AI, ITIL v3 Foundations along with having a CAE, he demonstrates a steadfast commitment to staying ahead of industry trends. Jason's 25 years of non-profit and association technology expertise makes him an invaluable speaker on IT leadership and digital transformation in any setting.

Cybersecurity Track

Fireside Chat: Crowdstrike Breach: Lessons Learned (OT focus)
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

The crowdstrike breach has significantly impacted businesses worldwide, highlighting the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and operational resilience. Our presenters will cover lessons learned from the breach and its implications for operational technology (OT). It will cover critical lessons learned, including the need for business continuity plans, testing and deployment within the OT environment and critical systems affected.

Sunil Doddi - 100pxModerator: Sunil Doddi, Senior Principal Process Controls Engineer, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.,

 



Presenters: 

Patrick Obrien - 100pxPatrick O' Brien, Cybersecurity Lead, exida

 

 

generic head shot iconChris Choquette, Senior Cyber Security Consultant, FM Global

 

 

 


Patrick O’Brien is a Cybersecurity Team Lead at exida, LLC, where he drives cybersecurity certification and assessment services for service providers and industrial asset owners. He has led cybersecurity risk assessments, training courses, and other lifecycle activities for many different applications, including oil and gas, specialty chemical, machinery and robotics. In addition to his cybersecurity role, he also provides consulting services in the areas of process safety, functional safety, and machine safety.
12:00-13:00
Lunch and State of the Society Address

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

13:00-14:00
Panel
Connecting Intelligence with Technology
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Traditionally, manufacturing systems were integrated through point-to-point connections. This meant that as new systems were added, they would need to be integrated with all other systems. As manufacturers become data driven organizations, it became clear that traditional architectures would no longer suffice. This panel will discuss how manufacturing and business systems should be integrated through a common technology stack. The result is faster integration and short time to value.

David Shultz - 100px Moderator: David Schultz, Senior Consultant, Spruik Technologies




Panelists:

Jeffrey Schroeder - 100x1007Jeffrey Schroeder, Product Manager, HighByte

 

 

Russell Gregg - 100x10011Russell Gregg, Director of Manufacturing Solutions, Canary Labs

 

 

Robert Graves - 100x100Robert Graves, Technical Solutions Program Manager, Sales Engineering, Inductive Automation

 

 

Dan White - 100x1005Dan White, Director of Technical Marketing, Opto 22

 

 

Josh Schadel - 100x100Josh Schadel, General Manager & CTO, Signalfire Wireless Telemetry

 

 

Arlen Nipper - 100x1002Arlen Nipper, President & CTO, Cirrus Link

 

 


Jeffrey Schroeder is a product manager at HighByte, focused on guiding the company’s product strategy. His areas of responsibility include market research, product positioning, product road mapping, and ecosystem integration strategy. Jeffrey is an experienced technologist who has more than a decade of experience in technology leadership roles in the automotive and discrete manufacturing industries. He brings deep domain expertise and perspectives in information technology, operations, and management for industrial organizations.
 

Robert Graves joined Inductive Automation in 2019 as a Technical Sales Representative and previously served as the Technical Sales Manager. Before joining Inductive Automation, Robert worked in the ethanol industry for 9 years and led a variety of IT infrastructure, virtualization, ERP and OT projects. He has two bachelor’s degrees: History and Administrative Studies from UC Riverside and Electrical Engineering from Arizona State. He also has a Master's in Information Systems from the University of San Francisco and is certified as a Project Management Professional.
 

Dan White has worked at Opto 22 for over a decade. His Tufts Engineering background, MBA in International Business and prior industrial controls experience give him a unique edge on automation. Dan enjoys staying active through biking, basketball, skiing and keeping up with his three young kids!
 

As the General Manager and CTO of SignalFire Wireless Telemetry, Josh Schadel leads the company’s innovation and growth in the field of wireless automation solutions for industrial applications. He has over 25 years of expertise in high-tech instrumentation, specializing in embedded systems and low-power wireless sensor networks. He was a key contributor to SignalFire’s product development and technology since he joined the company in 2008 as the Director of Engineering. Josh graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering.
13:45-14:00
Break
14:00-14:30
Technology Demonstration

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presenter: TBA
14:30-15:00
Digital Transformation Track

The Future of Flexible Manufacturing
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Andrew McDonald - 100x100Presenter: Andrew McDonald, Principal Consultant/Managing Director, FutureofManufacturing LLC

Manufacturing has traditionally relied on business models that drive economies of scale, based on costly carbon-heavy supply chains, that as the COVID pandemic showed, often lack resilience. Every day manufacturers across the globe, execute demand decisions, based on lagging indicators, over long planning horizons, making products far from where they are to be consumed. In this dynamic session, learn how manufacturing will move towards making today what was sold yesterday, leveraging a dynamic ecosystem of flexible manufacturing nodes coupled with complete supply chain visibility. You will hear about the upcoming revolution and how it will foster automated collaboration between buyers of product, those who create it and those owning the IP on how to manufacture, and how it opens up new business models for manufacturing and exciting times ahead for the automation community to invent the infrastructure of the future.
 

 Andrew McDonald is Principal Consultant/Managing Director of FutureofManufacturing LLC a company focused on delivering strategic consulting services for organizations that are moving to full-scale digital transformation of manufacturing. Andrew's expertise lies in Business Strategy Development, Technology Road Mapping, New Business Model Development, Venture Capital Investment Analysis, Change Leadership, Transformational Program Leadership, and Digital Manufacturing.Prior to the formation of FutureofManufacturing LLC, Andrew served as Director for Future Manufacturing at Unilever and led robotics and physical automation, digital factory and factory cybersecurity programs, company-wide.
 
Cybersecurity Track

Does AI Dream of Electric Substations? Generative AI and the Frontiers of AI Safety Principles for Critical Infrastructure Systems
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Jessa Davis 100x100Presenter: Jessa Davis, Security Consulting Manager, Accenture Security

As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in industry increases, technology and cybersecurity professionals must focus on engineering intrinsically safe and inherently secure AI systems—especially when used in operational technology (OT) environments, where a system failure or cybersecurity incident could result in serious injury and loss of life, environmental harm, or the interruption of critical infrastructure services. From this context, three core principles of AI safety engineering adapted to IEC 61508 and ISA/IEC 62443 standards will be presented to address the unique needs of OT processes—prioritizing both safety and reliability in operations—with use cases highlighting the ethical cybersecurity and risk management challenges of implementing AI within electric utilities’ OT networks.


Jessa Davis (she/her) is a Security Consulting Manager at Accenture, specializing in cyber-physical systems (CPS) and operational technology (OT) cybersecurity for electric utilities clients. Prior to joining Accenture, Jessa worked as an industrial controls system engineer in the oil and gas industry and as a blockchain software developer with the United Nations Office for Project Services in Kathmandu, Nepal. Her research interests include resolving EV charging infrastructure and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) cybersecurity challenges and supporting cyber resilience strategies for the smart grid. She lives in Seattle, WA.
15:00-15:15
Break
15:15-15:45
Digital Transformation Track

Industrial AI - The New Automation
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Jonas Berge - 100x100Presenter: Jonas Berge, Senior Director of Applied Technology, Emerson in Singapore

In this cutting-edge session, we’ll delve into the exciting ways Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the deployment of automation systems. Join us as we explore the pivotal role of industrial AI in enhancing production and maintenance operations, and how it serves as a driving force behind configuration systems and sensors integration.


Jonas Berge is the Senior Director of Applied Technology at Emerson in Singapore. He is a trusted advisor for plants and EPCs to adopt new automation technologies moving the industry forward with digital transformation. He has over thirty years of experience in the field of industrial automation. Mr. Berge is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Digital Transformation (DX) including data management, and industrial AI. Mr. Berge is the author of two books and has contributed to several others. He is frequently featured in articles and technical papers.
Cybersecurity Track

ISA/IEC 62443 Application Differences: Brownfield v. Greenfield Facilities
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Chris Monchinski - 100pxPresenter: Chris Monchinski, CTO, InflexionPoint

This presentation will explore the key similarities, differences and lessons learned in applying the ISA/IEC 62443 standard within greenfield and brownfield industrial environments. In greenfield (new) projects, where systems can be designed from the ground up, there is a unique opportunity to integrate cybersecurity measures into the architecture from the earliest stages. Chris will discuss strategies for leveraging this opportunity, including best practices for designing a secure infrastructure, selecting compatible technologies, and ensuring seamless integration of security controls. Conversely, brownfield (existing) projects present distinct challenges, particularly when dealing with legacy systems that were not originally designed with cybersecurity in mind. The presentation will address these challenges, offering practical approaches to retrofitting existing systems with modern security measures, managing vulnerabilities inherent in outdated technologies, and balancing operational continuity with the need for enhanced security.


Chris Monchinski is CTO at InflexionPoint where he provides is 30+ years of experience to clients through thought leadership, strategy, design and implementation involving Digital Transformation. Chris is chair of the ISA 95 committee on Enterprise-to-Control System Integration, convenor of IEC/ISO JWG5 and past Vice President of the ISA S&P board (2019-20). Chris is chair of the MESA Knowledge Committee. Chris holds a BSEE and an MSCS.

17:00-18:00
Honors and Awards Gala Transportation 
Lobby | Francis Marion Hotel
18:00-22:00
Honors and Awards Gala 
Patriots Point

Thursday, 3 October

07:00-16:45
Registration

Registration Booth | Mezzanine | Francis Marion Hotel

07:00-08:30
Technical Community Transition Open Forum

Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

07:00-08:30
Networking Breakfast

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

08:00-15:00
Standards Meeting
ISA75, Control Valves
Upstairs Meeting Room | Virginia's on King
08:00-17:00
Standards Meeting
ISA88/WG4, Batch Control
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District

ISA67, Nuclear Power Plant Standards
Middleton Room | Francis Marion Hotel

08:30-09:15
Keynote
Data Security in Generating Renewable Energy
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
James Clark - 100pxJames Clark, Vice President, Information Technology, South Jersey Industries Information Security

Jamie will present a success story on delivering a secure solution allowing data to traverse OT to IT to gain central visibility across our entire portfolio of farms generating renewable energy.  It is a very challenging project designed from the ground up, emphasizing cyber security for safety and compliance.


With 22 years of experience leading IT teams and 15 years in building cybersecurity programs across the chemical, medical, and utility industries, Jamie Clark is a visionary technologist who bridges the gap between security, IT, SCADA, and business teams. Currently, Jamie leads the Information Security (IT/OT) & GRC programs for South Jersey Industries (SJI), where he also manages the OT Solution Services Team. SJI is a leader in delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy solutions. Jamie holds a BS in Computer Information Systems (CIS), an MBA, and certifications including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GISCP).

09:15-09:30
Break
09:30-10:00
Digital Transformation Track 

Leveraging Digital Transformation to Reduct Cost to Instrumentation Testing
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Eric Van Beek - 100x100Presenter: Eric Van Beek, Product Manager, aeShield

The ACME Chemical Company tests 20,000 instruments annually. These instruments have been added to the testing program over the last 20 years and were deemed to be safety critical, production critical, environmentally critical, air permit critical, etc. Management has asked the maintenance/reliability team to reduce the cost of testing but still maintain the overall reliability and safety of the facility. So, how does one achieve what appears to be conflicting goals to extend testing from 12 months to 24 months or even longer while simultaneously maintaining instrumentation performance?
 
This presentation will address how to digitally transform your instrumentation testing program, such that it delivers actionable data to the maintenance/reliability team. This instrumentation centric data can be leveraged to Conduct sensitivity/impact analysis on test interval extension and resultant instrumentation reliability/performance. With impact analysis data at one's fingertips, informed business decisions can be easily made regarding optimization of the instrumentation mechanical integrity program.
A typical case study with ROI cost analysis will be presented, highlighting the benefits of Digitally Transforming your Instrument Reliability program to:
• Deliver quality failure rate DATA
• Conduct rapid reliability assessments
• Provide justification to extending testing
• Reduce costs while minimizing business risk
 

Eric Van Beek is a Product Manager for aeShield, a software company that specializes in the digitalization of process / functional safety lifecycle solutions. He has over 14 years of experience supporting the process safety lifecycle for companies in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and biotech/pharmaceutical sectors. His experience is associated with Process Hazards Analysis studies (PHAs), Layer of Protection Analysis studies (LOPAs), SIL Calcs, and Test Plans.
• IEC 61511 Committee Member
• Inventor on 2 patents for the aeShield application
Technology Demonstration

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presenter: TBA
10:00-10:30
Digital Transformation Track

Bridging the Skills Gap: Strategies for Recognizing and Mitigating Workforce Shortages
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Brian Romano - 100pxPresenter: Brian Romano, Director of Technology Development, The Arthur G. Russell Co., Inc.

The rapid advancement of technology has ushered in the era of Industry 4.0, characterized by the integration of automation, robotics and data-driven decision-making in manufacturing. This session will delve into the pressing issue of the skills gap in the modern workforce, focusing on strategies to recognize and mitigate workforce shortages in automation and control systems engineering. Participants will explore the specific skills required for various facets of Industry 4.0, including robotics, vision systems, process control, data systems, networking and motion control. The session will highlight:
• Capabilities needed to design, implement and maintain advanced systems
• Higher-level skills and knowledge necessary for data systems
• Integration of data analytics, machine learning and cybersecurity into manufacturing processes, underlining the need for a workforce proficient in these areas to drive innovation and efficiency.
• Current and future skill requirements for Industry 4.0.
• Effective strategies to bridge the skills gap, ensuring a competent and adaptable workforce ready to meet the demands of modern manufacturing.
 

Brian Romano, currently the Director of Technology Development at The Arthur G. Russell Co., has been in the process and automation control systems industry for more than 40 years, starting as a bench technician. After serving as president of a division for an automated machine builder, Romano owned a systems integration company, growing and positioning it as one with expertise in connecting the factory floor to the front office. To keep current with the ever-evolving automation industry, Romano holds an AS, BS, MS, and MBA and Ph.D. in Technology and Innovation. Romano has been designing and implementing Industry 4.0 solutions starting initially in 2004 with connecting factory floor data systems to customer business systems. Understanding a skills gap and workforce shortage in the control systems engineering profession, Romano leverages is academic knowledge and years of experience to teach the next generation of engineers at two local universities. He also serves as an industrial advisory board member for two technology and engineering universities, as a member of the CSIA Digital Committee and as chair of the ISA Smart Manufacturing division IIoT committee, where he was awarded the 2022 ISA SM/IIoT Division Leader of the Year Award.
Cybersecurity Track

Case Study Example of ISA/IEC 62443 in the Manufacturing Environment
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Eddie Baur - 100x100Presenter: Edgar Baur, Manager—Engineering Digitalization, Robert Bosch LLC

This presentation will focus on a real-world case study of applying the ISA/IEC 62443 standard in a manufacturing environment. The ISA/IEC 62443 is a comprehensive framework that provides guidelines and best practices for securing industrial automation and control systems (IACS).
 
The presentation will address the challenges encountered by Bosch USA plants, as well as worldwide, and how the adoption of ISA/IEC 62443 helped mitigate these issues. It will explore how this comprehensive approach effectively addresses cybersecurity challenges, ensuring business continuity and achieving strategic business objectives, particularly when dealing with heterogeneous manufacturing and IT environments, both regionally and globally.
 

Edgar (Eddie) Baur has been deeply involved in digitalization, automation and transformation throughout his career at Robert Bosch GmbH. Currently serving as Manager in Digitalization and as IT/OT Security regional representative in the Americas for the Corporate division, he is based in South Carolina. With 28 years of experience at Bosch, starting in Corporate Research and the internal Automation and Manufacturing Special Machinery division, he has gained extensive expertise in the manufacturing domain, particularly in Automation, Advanced Manufacturing and the Information Technology sector.
 
Eddie is currently focused on supporting and guiding business units and plants in their preparation and deployment for Bosch's significant transformation journey, enhancing Data-Driven Operations, Smart Manufacturing, Digitalization, ERP system upgrades and promoting process standardization and harmonization, while also ensuring a secure and state-of-the-art IT/OT landscape.
10:30-10:45
Break
10:45-11:15
Digital Transformation Track

Fireside Chat: Engaging Young Minds in Automation
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

As technology advances, the demand for skilled professionals in automation continues to grow. In this discussion, we’ll explore how to inspire and equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in automation and drive successful digital transformation strategies for companies worldwide.

Our expert panelists will discuss:

  • The importance of early exposure to automation concepts and technologies.
  • Strategies for promoting automation education in schools and universities.
  • Building strong partnerships between industry leaders and educational institutions.
  • Real-world examples of successful initiatives that are preparing young talent for the future of work.

Presenters:

Riddhi Padariya - 100x100Riddhi Padariya, Sr. Controls Engineer, Heirloom

 

 

Sherry LaBonne - 100x10012Sherry LaBonne, Software Product Manager, Rockwell Automation

 

 


Riddhi Padariya has over six years of experience in the Automation and Controls Engineering field. She recently held the position of Senior Controls Engineer at Heirloom, a Direct Air Capture company featured in *Time* magazine’s Top 50 Green Tech Companies of 2024. Previously, she spent four years at Tesla as an engineer, playing a key role in deploying code for the Tesla Megapack line, Model 3/Y Battery Module lines, and the 4680-cell manufacturing line. Riddhi has also served as a judge at the United Nations COP28 Hack for Earth and HackMIT at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In her free time, she mentors junior engineers and college students who are curious about the world of manufacturing and industrial automation.
Cybersecurity Track

ISASecure ISA/IEC 62443 Site Assessment  (ACSSA) Program - Industry Perspectives & Updates
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Learn the value of standardized cybersecurity assessments for automation managing equipment at asset owner sites. Since announcing the plans in Q2 2023 to establish an operating site cybersecurity assessment scheme aligned to ISA/IEC 62443, ISASecure has been hard at work developing the standard alongside key stakeholders from asset owners, certification bodies and OT-specific industry stakeholders.

Join us for this exclusive panel to meet with the program managers, directors, and SMEs actually writing the standard to hear firsthand what the industry can expect, including release dates, preparation documents and upcoming training opportunities.

Sean Haynes100x100Moderator: Sean Haynes, Chief Marketing Officer, SecurityGate.io



Panelists:

Brandon Price - 100x100Brandon Price, Sr. Principal, Industrial Cybersecurity, ExxonMobil Technology & Engineering Company

 

 

Kenny Mesker - 100x100Kenny Mesker, OT Cybersecurity Strategist, Chevron 

 
 
 
Patrick Obrien - 100px Patrick O'Brien, Cybersecurity Team Lead, exida
 
 

 


Sean Haynes has over 30 years of experience in Technology, Marketing, and Product Design & Development roles in the Fin-tech, Insurance, healthcare, and education sectors from early-stage to mature organizations. In his current role as Marketing Lead at ISASecure, Haynes is focused on leading the development of strategies and operational plans that advocate for the global adoption of ISASecure and ISA/IEC 62443 family of standards to secure and certify automation in critical infrastructure.


Brandon Price is Senior Principal Engineer for ICS Cybersecurity at ExxonMobil with responsibility for sustaining ExxonMobil's ICS cybersecurity strategy for its Upstream, Downstream and Midstream businesses. He has over 20 years of experience in leadership, security and business controls for protecting information, information systems and operational technology. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in Management Information Systems and holds a CISSP certification.


With over 25 years of experience in OT systems architecture, cybersecurity, software development, and engineering, Kenny Mesker is an accomplished operational technology leader with a proven track record in all facets of system design and implementation. As a Chevron Distinguished Engineer and the OT Cybersecurity Strategist, Kenny is responsible for developing the corporate OT cybersecurity technology strategy. He currently holds the positions of Vice Chair of the ISA Secure Compliance Institute board of directors and co-Vice Chair of the Association of Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers cybersecurity subcommittee. Kenny is an Electrical Engineering graduate of Texas A&M University with post-graduate research in fault tolerance and resilient engineering.


Patrick O’Brien is a Cybersecurity Team Lead at exida, LLC, where he drives cybersecurity certification and assessment services for service providers and industrial asset owners. He has led cybersecurity risk assessments, training courses, and other lifecycle activities for many different applications, including oil and gas, specialty chemical, machinery and robotics. In addition to his cybersecurity role, he also provides consulting services in the areas of process safety, functional safety, and machine safety.

10:45-12:00
Career Skills Track

Emotional Intelligence
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Karine Leblanc 100x100Presenter: Karine Leblanc, Published Author & Professional Speaker in Coaching & Training for Growth, VP of Sales, iAIRE

11:15-11:30
Break
11:30-12:00
Digital Transformation Track

Leveraging Digitalization for a Greener Future
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Soloman Almadi - 100x100Presenter: Dr. Soloman Almadi, Principal Scientist, Aramco

Technological developments in recent times have greatly increased our ability to address carbon emissions in a variety of processes and operations. Our capacity to address direct and indirect emissions sources more successfully than in the past has increased as a result of these developments. Massive datasets have been collected easier thanks to the spread of automation and instrumentation solutions, creating data lakes that may be used to proactively identify emission sources and the connections between them and primary carbon emission sources.

In this context, digitalization is essential because it makes it possible to identify the sources of emissions both within and between them, analyze the composition of emissions, and optimize processes—all of which lead to a more sustainable future.

In order to understand the fundamental building blocks of emission control, this presentation explains the transformative power of digital technologies and digitalization capabilities, such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and Digital Twin technologies among others in serving the nezero objective.

This study also suggests an integrated system and data model that may predict emissions related to energy consumption. The presentation also includes control strategies intended to lessen these negative effects on the environment. This research seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for tackling the urgent problem of carbon emissions in the contemporary industrial landscape by integrating these technological breakthroughs and techniques.

Cybersecurity Track

Maritime Cybersecurity in the Supply Chain
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Presenter: South Carolina Port Authority

The maritime supply chain plays a critical role in global trade, yet its reliance on interconnected digital systems exposes it to various cyber threats. This presentation delves into the complexities of maritime cybersecurity and its impact on the supply chain. We will explore the unique challenges that maritime organizations face in safeguarding their digital assets, from vessels and ports to logistics and cargo management.

Career Skills Track
Session: TBA
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Presenter: TBA
12:00-13:00
Lunch 

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

13:00-13:45
Digital Transformation Track

Life on the Edge: Harnessing Opportunities, Mastering Challenges and Mapping the Future of Edge Computing
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Edge devices have a unique set of requirements. Whether they are on the constant move or even going in and out of communication coverage, edge devices need to be designed to be away from connectivity and the ability to acquire information from the back office. This panel will discuss the unique challenges presented by edge devices and different methods that can be used to enable and manage them.

Ron Victor - 100x100

Moderator: Ron Victor, Executive Vice President, AustinGIS

 

 

Mark Kraeling - 100px

Panelist: Mark Kraeling, Solutions Architect, GE Transportation

 


Ron Victor is a silicon-valley based technology entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience and expertise launching new ventures at start-ups and fortune 1000 technology companies. His exits include IoTium Inc. (Edge Compute, IIoT, Zero-trust Remote Access – acquired by View Inc.), Hellosoft Inc. (VoIP, Wifi, IMS, Telco – acquired by Imagination Technologies), Phasecom Inc. (Broadband Technologies – IPO VYYO). Ron started his career at Intel corporation where he played multiple roles in launching new businesses for Intel including Broadband, Personal Conferencing, Video compression chipsets and assisting launching Intel in China. He was also Technical counsel to Intel legal.


Mark Kraeling is a Product Architect for the Train Performance group at Wabtec, Inc. At Wabtec, a Fortune 500 company, he drives technical innovation and unique digital solutions to propel the rail industry forward in a sustainable way. Mark is a regular speaker at technical conferences worldwide such as AusRAIL and IoT Solutions World Congress. He works to share his knowledge and passion of the rail industry on topics such as system architecture, software development, and safety-related systems. Mark resides with his wife in Melbourne, Florida.

Cybersecurity Track

Plant Owner Perspective: Cybersecurity Challenges and Threats - Strategies for Effective and Efficient Mitigation 
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

The evolving threat landscape and increasing interconnectedness of industrial systems have made cybersecurity a top priority for plant owners across industries. This panel discussion brings together asset owners and industry experts to share their insights and experiences in addressing the unique cybersecurity challenges and threats faced by critical infrastructure.

Patrick Obrien - 100pxModerator: Patrick O'Brien, Cybersecurity Lead, exida

 


Panelists: 

Chris DaCosta - 100x100Chris DaCosta, ICS Cybersecurity Director, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.

 

 

Brandon Price - 100x100Brandon Price, Sr., Principal, Industrial Cybersecurity, ExxonMobil Technology & Engineering Company

 

 

Eddie Baur - 100x100Edgar Baur, Manager—Engineering Digitalization, Robert Bosch LLC

 
 
 

Patrick O’Brien is a Cybersecurity Team Lead at exida, LLC, where he drives cybersecurity certification and assessment services for service providers and industrial asset owners. He has led cybersecurity risk assessments, training courses, and other lifecycle activities for many different applications, including oil and gas, specialty chemical, machinery, and robotics. In addition to his cybersecurity role, he also provides consulting services in the areas of process safety, functional safety, and machine safety.


Chris DaCosta is currently the Director of Global OT Cybersecurity at Air Products & Chemicals, Inc. As a Air Products Distinguished Engineer, he has responsibility for developing corporate strategy and managing the cybersecurity lifecycle for all IACS of the company’s global fleet of over 600 facilities. He has well 25 years of experience deploying, maintaining and optimizing industrial automation systems and over 10 years in OT cybersecurity. He is a graduate of Brown University with a degree in Chemical Engineering and Masters Degree in Chemical Engineering from Villanova University. Chris is active in AIChE, American Chemistry Council (ChemITC) and as a voting member for ISA/IEC 62443.
 

Brandon Price is Senior Principal Engineer for ICS Cybersecurity at ExxonMobil with responsibility for sustaining ExxonMobil's ICS cybersecurity strategy for its Upstream, Downstream and Midstream businesses. He has over 20 years of experience in leadership, security and business controls for protecting information, information systems and operational technology. He is a graduate of The University of Alabama with a degree in Management Information Systems and holds a CISSP certification.
 

Edgar (Eddie) Baur has been deeply involved in digitalization, automation and transformation throughout his career at Robert Bosch GmbH. Currently serving as Manager in Digitalization and as IT/OT Security regional representative in the Americas for the Corporate division, he is based in South Carolina. With 28 years of experience at Bosch, starting in Corporate Research and the internal Automation and Manufacturing Special Machinery division, he has gained extensive expertise in the manufacturing domain, particularly in Automation, Advanced Manufacturing and the Information Technology sector.
 
Eddie is currently focused on supporting and guiding business units and plants in their preparation and deployment for Bosch's significant transformation journey, enhancing Data-Driven Operations, Smart Manufacturing, Digitalization, ERP system upgrades and promoting process standardization and harmonization, while also ensuring a secure and state-of-the-art IT/OT landscape.
Career Skills Track

Career Journey Panel
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Patrick Corbett - 100pxModerator: Patrick Corbett, Senior Systems Data Engineer, Eli Lilly and Company

 

 

Panelists:

Colleen Goldsborough - 100pxColleen Goldsborough, Industry Sales Manager, United Electric Supply

 


Ashley Weckworth - 100pxAshley Weckwerth, Project Manager, Burns & McDonnell

 

 

Brian Curtis - 100x1003Brian Curtis, REFS Contract Manager, Novartis

 

 

Alan Bryant Oxy - 100x100Alan Bryant, Senior Automation Engineer, Oxy

13:00-17:00
Standards Meeting
ISA67, Nuclear Power Plant Standards
Middleton Room | Francis Marion Hotel
13:45-14:00
Break
14:00-14:30
Technology Demonstration

Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presenter: TBA
Technology Demonstration

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presenter: TBA
Career Skills Track
TBA
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Presenters: TBA
14:30-15:00
Digital Transformation Track

Unpacking and Assembling ISA95
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

David Shultz - 100pxPresenter: David Schultz, Senior Consultant, Spruik Technologies

ISA-95 is likely the most well-known standards in manufacturing. It is also one of the least understood. It is often characterized as obsolete or out-of-date and not suitable for a modern manufacturing architecture technology stack. This session will provide a basic overview of the standard, covering Parts 2, 3 and 4. It will also demonstrate how to apply the standard to a basic manufacturing use case.

David Schultz is a senior consultant with Spruik Technologies. He works with manufacturers to help them develop and execute strategies for their digital transformation and asset management initiatives. He has 25 over years of automation and process control experience across many market verticals, with a focus on continuous and batch processing. He is the Director for the SMIIoT Division of ISA and serves on several technical committees. He is also a member of the Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP) and Project Management Institute (PMI).
Cybersecurity Track

Workforce Needs and Development in OT
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Presenters:

Sean McBride 100x100Sean McBride, Director, Informatics Research Institute, Idaho State University

 

 

Shane Stailey 100x100Shane Dale Stailey, Senior Industrial Control Systems Cybersecurity Professional, Idaho National Laboratory

 

 

As the demand for skilled professionals in operational technology (OT) continues to grow, organizations face significant challenges in recruiting, training, and retaining a competent workforce. This presentation will delve into the workforce needs and development strategies specific to the OT sector, focusing on addressing the skills gap and building a robust talent pipeline.

We will examine the current state of the OT workforce, identifying critical skills and competencies required for various roles, including control system engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and system integrators. The presentation will also explore emerging trends and technologies, such as digital transformation, AI, Industry 4.0 and their impact on workforce requirements.

Career Skills Track
Session: TBA
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Presenter: TBA
15:00-15:15
Break
15:15-15:45
Digital Transformation Track

Driving ROI of Industry 4.0 Initiatives 
Colonial Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Sujata Tilak - 100pxPresenter: Sujata Tilak, Managing Director, Ascent Intellimation Pvt. Ltd.

ROI of Industry 4.0 has many facets. This session will look at how to identify immense potential of Industry 4.0 projects and realize the economic and sustainable ‘value’. The session will also delve upon soft returns for customers, employees and finally the society.


Sujata Tilak is a thought leader and recognized expert in IIoT and Industry 4.0. An instrumentation and control engineer from the College of Engineering, Pune, Sujata has more than 30 years of experience. She worked with Alfa Laval and KPIT before founding Ascent Intellimation. Under her leadership, AIPL has conceptualized and developed an innovative Internet of Things platform, PlantConnect and various products based on this platform. Sujata is an executive board member of the International Society of Automation (ISA). She is the founder and first director of ISA Smart Manufacturing and IIoT Division and past DVP of Asia Pacific District. She is associated with various engineering colleges as industry advisor. Sujata mentors students, professionals and startups wanting to step in automation and IoT world. She regularly speaks in conferences and writes in technical magazines.

Cybersecurity Track

Applying ISA/IEC 62443 to a Unified Name Space
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

David Shultz - 100px

Presenter: David Schultz, Senior Consultant, Spruik Technologies

As industrial control systems (ICS) continue to evolve and integrate with information technology (IT) systems, ensuring their security becomes increasingly complex. A unified namespace (UNS) offers a single source of truth for data in the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), providing opportunities to streamline operations and improve efficiency. However, securing a UNS requires a robust approach to cybersecurity.

This presentation will focus on applying the ISA/IEC 62443 standards to a UNS in order to enhance the security of ICS. We will begin by exploring the components of the UNS and the potential benefits it offers in terms of data management and system integration.
 

David Schultz is a senior consultant with Spruik Technologies. He works with manufacturers to help them develop and execute strategies for their digital transformation and asset management initiatives. He has 25 over years of automation and process control experience across many market verticals, with a focus on continuous and batch processing. He is the Director for the SMIIoT Division of ISA and serves on several technical committees. He is also a member of the Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP) and Project Management Institute (PMI).
Career Skills Track
TBA
Gold Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Presenter: TBA
15:30-17:30
District Chair Training
Closed meeting.
15:45-16:00
Break
16:00-16:15
ISA Standards Overview
Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel
Charley Robinson - 100x1004Presenter: Charley Robinson, Director, Standards Administration, ISA

ISA’s international standards play a vital role in promoting safety, cybersecurity and efficiency across global industry. This workshop will provide an overview of ISA’s international standards program and its relationship to and collaboration with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). A panel of experts representing standards stakeholders will then answer questions from the audience.

16:15-16:45
ISA Standards Panel

This panel is an extension of the ISA Standards Overview and will have time for audience Q&A.

Carolina Ballroom | Francis Marion Hotel

Scott Reynolds - 100x100Moderator: Scott Reynolds, Security Engineering Manager - ITD, Johns Manville

 

 

Panelists:

Ed Manns - 100x100Ed Manns, Managing Director, External Relations, ISA

 

 

Charley Robinson - 100x1004Charley Robinson, Director, Standards Administration, ISA

 

 

David Lee - 100x1008Dave Lee, President, User Centered Design Services

 

17:30-19:00
Geographic Assembly Meeting

Rutledge Room | Francis Marion Hotel

Friday, 4 October

07:00-12:00
ISA District Leadership Meeting
Closed session by invitation only. Contact sections@isa.org for information.
Francis Marion Hotel
  • Western North America
08:00-12:00
Standards Meeting
ISA67, Nuclear Power Plant Standards
Middleton Room | Francis Marion Hotel
08:00-17:00
Standards Meetings
ISA95, Enterprise-Control System Integration
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

ISA88/WG4, Batch Control
Ashley Room | Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District
13:00-17:00
ISA District Leadership Meeting, Continued
Closed session, by invitation only. Contact sections@isa.org for information.
Francis Marion Hotel
  • Western North America

Saturday, 5 October

08:00-12:00
Standards Meeting
ISA95, Enterprise-Control System Integration
Laurens Room | Francis Marion Hotel

The event program is still under development.

Subscribe to ISA events emails to get the latest updates.