OT After Hours

• The SkillBridge Path

  In this episode of OT After Hours, host Ken Kully, Systems Support Lead at Verve Industrial, sits down with Zach Woltjer and Connor Murphy, Technical Account Managers at Rockwell Automation to explore how the U.S. Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program is helping veterans transition into civilian careers in OT cybersecurity. Zach shares how his own journey through SkillBridge not only eased his transition out of the military but also inspired him to help set up the program at Verve. Connor recounts his path from military intelligence into OT security, proving that determination, adaptability, and soft skills can open doors—degree or no degree. Together, their stories highlight how military training and mindsets translate into critical skills for protecting industrial infrastructure. Key Takeaways SkillBridge as a bridge: A program designed to help military personnel transition smoothly into civilian careers, including cybersecurity roles. Soft skills are critical: Strategic thinking, adaptability, and communication—often honed in the military—translate directly to success in OT security. From intel to OT security: Zach and Connor share how experiences in military intelligence prepared them for cybersecurity careers. The value for companies: SkillBridge allows organizations to bring in talented veterans, “test drive” potential hires, and diversify teams with unique backgrounds. Degree not required: Connor’s success story emphasizes that curiosity, drive, and continuous learning matter as much as formal education. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and overview of career-focused mini-sodes 02:30 – Introducing Zach Woltjer and Connor Murphy 03:08 – What the SkillBridge program is and why it matters 07:40 – Zach’s path: military service, mentors, certifications, and SkillBridge experience 13:57 – Bringing SkillBridge to Verve and recruiting Connor into the program 17:20 – Connor’s journey: transitioning out of the Air Force, overcoming doubts, and gaining new skills 24:18 – How SkillBridge works for companies: processes, intermediaries, and benefits 32:29 – Why veterans should consider SkillBridge when transitioning out 34:52 – Challenges of shifting from military to civilian culture 36:34 – Final reflections on SkillBridge and its impact on careers in OT cybersecurity Guest Information Zachary Woltjer: Technical Account Manager at Rockwell Automation. A U.S. Air Force veteran who helped establish the SkillBridge program at Verve, bridging military expertise with civilian OT cybersecurity needs. Connor Murphy: Technical Account Manager at Rockwell Automation. An Air Force veteran who transitioned into OT cybersecurity through SkillBridge, now focused on supporting clients and advancing his cybersecurity career. Subscribe Follow and Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter/X | Contact Verve | Listener Q&A

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• From a TRS-80 to OT Cybersecurity

  In this episode, we trace the career of Tyler Bergman, Operations Team Lead at Rockwell Automation (formerly Verve Industrial), whose early fascination with computers and programming sparked a path that led through SCADA operations, utility cooperatives, and consulting before finding a home in OT cybersecurity. Join host Ken Kully, Systems Support Lead at Verve Industrial, as Tyler shares how persistence, hands-on experience, and a thirst for knowledge shaped his expertise—and why networking fundamentals are the backbone of OT security. Key Takeaways A lifelong passion for technology: From programming on a TRS-80 as a child to building custom systems for nonprofits, Tyler’s curiosity and drive shaped his technical foundation. SCADA and utility experience: Years spent in municipal and cooperative environments provided hands-on exposure to the OT landscape long before “OT security” was a defined field. The value of persistence: Earning a CCNA after multiple attempts showed the resilience required to keep advancing in cybersecurity. Networking as the cornerstone: Understanding networks and how devices present themselves is one of the most critical skills in OT security. Bridging OT and IT: Tyler’s background gave him unique insight into why protecting critical infrastructure requires a balance of availability, reliability, and security. Timestamps 00:00 – Early fascination with robotics, the TRS-80, and programming in BASIC 03:06 – High school years, military service, and starting a consulting business 05:46 – Transition into networking, SCADA operations, and pursuing certifications 12:01 – Cybersecurity experiences, OT systems, and utility cooperative work 14:03 – Joining Verve Industrial and focusing on OT cybersecurity 18:30 – Reflections on career path, lifelong learning, and excitement for future challenges Guest Information Tyler Bergman: Lead of the Field Deployment Team at Rockwell Automation (formerly Verve Industrial). With more than two decades of experience spanning SCADA operations, utilities, consulting, and networking, Tyler brings deep insight into the intersection of operational technology and cybersecurity. Passionate about hands-on problem solving, persistence in learning, and building secure critical infrastructure. Subscribe Follow and Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter/X | Contact Verve | Listener Q&A

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• From Snowboarding Slopes to Securing OT Networks

  In this episode, we follow the unique career journey of Natalie Kalinowski, Network & Cybersecurity Specialist at Verve Industrial, from teaching snowboard lessons to managing complex industrial network security. Join host Ken Kully, Systems Support Lead at Verve Industrial, as Natalie shares how international internships, early career programs, and continuous learning shaped her expertise—and her advice for anyone looking to break into OT security. Key Takeaways Career pivots can start anywhere—Natalie’s path began on the slopes and in hands-on engineering internships across the Dominican Republic and Germany. Rockwell Automation’s EDGE program provided foundational OT automation skills, bridging the gap from theory to real-world application. Continuous upskilling through certifications (CISSP, CCNA, FEMA courses) and self-directed study is key to keeping pace in a fast-evolving field. Strong communication skills—especially with global teams—are as critical as technical knowledge in OT security. For newcomers: pursue foundational certifications, gain experience in IT or OT support roles, and immerse yourself in industry news and terminology. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & early jobs: teaching snowboarding and discovering manufacturing 02:10 – Engineering studies at Marquette University & global internships (Dominican Republic, Germany) 04:15 – Why manufacturing offered the variety and challenge Natalie wanted 05:30 – Joining Rockwell Automation through the EDGE early-career program 07:20 – Gaining hands-on experience in networks, automation, and OT environments 09:00 – Transitioning to network and cybersecurity focus 10:15 – Rockwell’s acquisition of Verve and upskilling in cybersecurity 13:00 – Certifications and training: PSIRT, CVSS, CCNA, FEMA, CISSP prep 15:40 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and building communication skills 19:05 – Working with global teams and adapting communication for non-native English speakers 21:00 – Advice for newcomers: certifications, entry-level IT/OT roles, learning the lingo, and staying informed Guest Information Natalie Kalinowski: Network & Cybersecurity Specialist at Verve Industrial with a background in computer engineering, global manufacturing internships, and OT network design. Passionate about continuous learning, cross-cultural communication, and mentoring new entrants into the cybersecurity field. Subscribe Follow and Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter/X | Contact Verve | Listener Q&A

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• From Embedded Developer to OT Protocol Sleuth

  In this episode, we explore how an embedded-systems engineer became the leader of Verve’s Special Projects & Protocols team—and what his journey says about recruiting, culture, and continuous learning in OT security. Join host Ken Kully, Systems Support Lead at Verve Industrial, and his guest Lance Lamont, Manager for Special Projects & Protocols, as they discuss career pivots, protocol reverse-engineering, and building low-ego teams that thrive on curiosity. Key Takeaways Transferable skills matter: deep protocol expertise from product engineering can power OT-security research Flexibility attracts talent: “We want you for your skills, not your hours” sealed Lance’s mid-pandemic move to Verve Low ego, high curiosity: teams grow faster when members admit mistakes and chase answers together Diverse entry points strengthen outcomes: mixing maker-space tinkerers, robotics alumni, and anime-inspired problem-solvers yields broader perspective Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and sound check 00:05 – From touch-screen drivers to a LinkedIn message that changed everything  02:45 – Turning down (then accepting) the offer: balancing parenting and remote work  05:20 – “Skill collector” mindset and early protocol wins  07:10 – Maker-space leadership and the value of empowering others  09:38 – Imposter feelings, confidence, and the culture of asking questions  11:30 – Hiring for curiosity and low ego: what Lance looks for in new team members  13:00 – Closing thoughts on continuous learning and career growth Guest Information Lance Lamont: Manager, Special Projects & Protocols at Verve Industrial. Former embedded developer (power tools, automotive, touchscreens) who now leads a multidisciplinary research team reverse-engineering OT communication protocols. Subscribe Follow and Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter/X | Contact Verve | Listener Q&A

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• From Craft Cocktails to Control Systems

  In this episode, we trace an unlikely career pivot from fine‑dining bartender to the helm of Verve’s OT cybersecurity lab. Join host Ken Kully, Systems Support Lead at Verve Industrial, and his guest Andrew Wintermeyer, Team Lead, Device & Integration Research, as the latter discusses breaking into the field, learning on the fly, and why forgotten manuals can be more dangerous than zero‑days. Key Takeaways Curiosity compounds — an hour of self‑study each week can snowball into deep expertise. Real‑world OT risks often hide in “maintenance” passwords and long‑running configs. A safe testing lab accelerates learning and de‑risks production environments. Soft skills from hospitality — patience, improvisation — translate surprisingly well to cybersecurity. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 00:05 – Holiday bartending burnout sparks a career rethink 01:40 – Six‑week help‑desk contract at Madison Power & Electric turns into a year 02:40 – Landing at Verve as a COVID‑era lab assistant 03:13 – First solo day in the lab: imposter syndrome & safety scares 03:50 – The breakthrough that changed everything 04:59 – Finding your place in the field 05:20 – Sunday‑night learning ritual and compounding knowledge 06:30 – What happens in the field matters Guest Information Andrew Wintermeyer: OT Security Specialist and lead for Verve’s North American lab. Former bartender turned Java programmer, now wrangles PLCs, SCADAPack, and virtualization stacks to keep client environments safer. Subscribe Follow and Subscribe Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter/X | Contact Verve I Listener Q&A

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