Episode 135

Plant Floor Cybersecurity Starts at the Top. Not the Server Room, with Robert Maxwell

Published on: 22nd July, 2026

For industrial leaders responsible for keeping plants productive, connected, and secure, cybersecurity cannot sit only with IT.

Robert Maxwell joins Dino to address the leadership and operational gaps that leave OT environments exposed, especially when aging control systems, diverse automation platforms, and decentralized plant operations are part of the picture.

They discuss what it takes to move beyond fragmented ownership and point solutions: giving an accountable leader the authority to coordinate security across IT, OT, engineering, operations, and outside partners.

The conversation covers practical priorities for building a durable cyber program, including organization-wide awareness, stronger visibility into industrial assets, and a security strategy that can keep pace with AI adoption.

The takeaway is clear: cybersecurity is an operational investment that protects uptime, production, and long-term business resilience.

Chapters:

  • (00:00:00) Cybersecurity is a management responsibility
  • (00:01:00) Robert Maxwell’s journey into cybersecurity
  • (00:04:35) Why organizations need a clear cybersecurity owner
  • (00:08:40) Building a long-term security strategy across the business
  • (00:12:00) What happens when companies ignore cybersecurity
  • (00:14:10) Why vendor-led security programs fall short
  • (00:17:05) The IT and OT divide in manufacturing
  • (00:20:00) AI, data protection, and the growing security challenge
  • (00:23:25) Visibility gaps across manufacturing plants
  • (00:26:20) Why leaders should view cybersecurity as an investment

Links And Resources:

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About the Podcast

Industrial Cybersecurity Insider
Everything You Need to Know to 'Get Safer Sooner'
Industrial Cybersecurity Insider offers a thorough look into the field of industrial cybersecurity for manufacturing and critical infrastructure. The podcast delves into key topics, including industry trends, policy changes, and groundbreaking innovations. Each episode will feature insights from key influencers, policy makers, and industry leaders. Subscribe and tune in weekly to stay in the know on everything important in the industrial cybersecurity world!