Common Threads Huntsville: Cyber Threats and the Evolving National Security Landscape

Nearly 150 professionals from the Huntsville region attended the May 14-15, Common Threads Huntsville: Cyber Threats and the Evolving National Security Landscape program with a focus on Operational Technology (OT).

The May 14 unclassified programming kicked off with Career Conversations, a jampacked job fair held in partnership with ClearanceJobs, followed by a welcome reception, allowing ample time for networking, catching up with colleagues, and relationship building. 

The formal program began with Dr. Larry Lowe, Chief Innovation Officer, City of Huntsville, delivering welcoming remarks, which emphasized the critical importance of the city staying ahead in an ever-changing cyber landscape. He noted how Mayor Tommy Battle is tackling the gaps and challenges through the development of an AI Task Force. Mr. Michael Machtinger, Section Chief, Cyber Division, FBI, then delivered keynote remarks highlighting cyber threats from foreign adversaries and highlighted FBI’s top five priorities. He discussed that nation-state actors’ and cyber actors’ behaviors often look identical, making attribution a challenge. 

Mr. Machtinger emphasized that “combating the threats of Russia, Iran, North Korea, China and PRC cannot be executed alone.” He made the point that partnership with the private sector enhances the U.S.’s capabilities to fight against cybercrime. Additionally, he noted that FBI is leveraging emerging technologies such as AI to protect U.S. interests and fulfill the FBI’s mission. Mr. Machtinger provided warning about “new level of activity” from Salt Typhoon and their massive data collection operations. The FBI is strategically enhancing their efforts to support victims of data loss and reduce their exposure to cyberattacks. As the adversaries grow in sophistication, CISA and FBI are continuously collaborating on remediation efforts and cyber hygiene practices. Additionally, Mr. Machtinger expressed the importance of organizations building relationships with local field offices to enhance communication and strategic alignment. 

The following morning a breakfast and classified panel discussion at the S//NF level took place. The panel was led by Barb Fast (moderator, BGI Enterprises LLC) who provided an overview of operational technology then engaged  panel members: Eric Smithmier (FBI), Col Ryan Roseberry (AMC G2), Steven Rush (MSIC, DIA), and Bobby Scharmann (Leidos) capitalizing on their expertise, and knowledge to discuss threats to operational technology and the impact on national security and mission in their respective areas. The discussion was informative, and educational as well as relevant to the government entities in Huntsville.