Stepping into the shoes of a panel moderator for the first time can be a whirlwind experience, filled with excitement, nerves, and many learning. My recent stint at the CERC 2023 conference in Kuwait was no exception. I had the distinct honor of moderating the ICS/SCADA systems panel, a significant platform discussing the challenges, solutions, and the future of ICS/OT cyber security.
On 15th October 2023, with an audience waiting in anticipation, I had 30 minutes and 4 professional panelists to engage with. Each began with a 2-minute introduction:
- Dr. Sridhar Adepu from the University of Bristol drew our attention to the educational testbeds they’ve cultivated, illustrating the intricacies of physical processes and the repercussions of incorporating risks. What particularly piqued my curiosity was the research-driven ethos underlying their testbeds at Bristol University.
- Eng. Ali Al-Enzi painted a compelling vision of his project proposal for the Kuwait government, underlining the ambition of digitizing water utilities. This proposal stands as a cog in the grander machinery of the “Kuwait Vision” project.
- Eng. Dhari Al-Ajmi of EQUATE Petrochemical embarked on a discourse about the myriad OT cybersecurity challenges peppering the region. He placed a magnifying glass on the essence of knowledge and the bedrock of robust standards such as ISO/IEC 62443. Adding weight to his words was his accolade of the “ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Expert certificate.”
- Eng. Abdulaziz Alhumoud, representing KIPIC, dived into the nuances of security controls in OT, with a special focus on the Isolation mechanism. His insights unraveled the fragility and susceptibilities rampant in a plethora of OT devices.
The exchange between the panelists was electrifying. Questions, clarifications, and comments flowed, creating a dynamic atmosphere that encapsulated the audience’s attention. It was evident they yearned for more when the session ended, a testament to the panel’s effectiveness.
Drawing from my past experience with my YouTube channel, “ICS Arabia”, where I’ve interviewed numerous OT and IT professionals, I felt poised to navigate the dialogues smoothly.
As I reflect on this experience, here are my golden nuggets for first-time (and seasoned) moderators:
1. Preparation is Key: Having been immersed in ICS/OT cybersecurity for 12 years, I leveraged my in-depth understanding. Meeting panelists beforehand or researching them online facilitated more personalized interactions. Further, attending their conference lectures provided context, aiding in my preparation.
2. Set Clear Guidelines: Prior communication is imperative. An email delineating the time constraints and topic boundaries set the tone for the panel.
3. Command Attention with an Introduction: A solid opening is paramount. I introduced myself, the panel, and the significance of ICS/OT cyber security. Pro tip: Draft your introduction beforehand to ensure it’s concise and engaging.
4. Engage Your Audience: Starting with a brief bio about myself and highlighting the panel’s importance set the stage for the subsequent discussions.
5. Time Management: I kept my iPhone stopwatch handy, ensuring no panelist exceeded their allocated time. This ensured a balanced dialogue.
6. Foster a Relaxed Environment: Interjecting light-hearted moments or jests made the panelists more at ease, facilitating an open exchange of ideas. It also helped in captivating the audience.
7. Relish the Journey: It’s essential to remember that the goal is to provide value, foster learning, and facilitate networking. Embrace the experience, ensuring it’s more of a knowledge-sharing session than a debate.
For those venturing into moderating or the broader ICS/OT cyber security community, remember that each interaction, each panel, is an opportunity to learn and grow. Here’s to more enriching dialogues in the future!