ILTA Represents Terminal Industry in Cabinet Level Cyber Security Discussion

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg convened a discussion between government officials and industry leaders to discuss cybersecurity concerns in the maritime sector. About 20 business executives participated in the discussion, which included Kinder Morgan CEO Steve Kean, ILTA President Kathryn Clay, Waterways Council President Jennifer Carpenter, as well as leadership from other maritime sectors.

The Secretaries expressed their interest in learning more directly from industry partners about their cyber security challenges. Participants noted ways that existing government programs could be improved. Industry representatives also emphasized the need to assist small- and medium-sized businesses that are in the early stages of automating facilities and merging “OT with IT.”

Secretary Mayorkas previewed a forthcoming announcement in the Federal Register, saying that DHS would seek public comment on opportunities for an improved government role in assisting cybersecurity in the maritime sector. In particular, he noted that the department will be proposing the creation of cybersecurity officers reporting to each Captain of the Port.