OT After Hours

• Back from Automation Fair

  In this episode of OT After Hours, Ken Kully (Systems Support Lead for Rockwell SecureOT), sits down with Natalie Kalinowski (Network & Cybersecurity Specialist), Tyler Bergman (Operations Team Lead) and Lance Lamont (Special Projects & Protocols Team Lead) to discuss the recently-concluded Rockwell Automation Fair. And if you weren't able to attend Automation Fair, you can still find videos and presentations from it on the Rockwell YouTube channel. Key Takeaways Automation Fair is a major annual event held by Rockwell Automation, attracting both employees and customers. The event features workshops, tech demos, and product displays, not unlike a mini-CES for Rockwell, its partners, and its clients. Workshops ranged from basic controller programming to advanced topics like CPWE design with Cisco and Powerflex fundamentals. Keynotes are a valuable way to gauge Rockwell's strategic direction, including the announcement of a $2 billion investment in a new greenfield facility in southeastern Wisconsin, set to open in 2028 as a showcase for automation, AI, robotics, and cybersecurity. Numerous robotics demos at the Automation Fair, including collaborative robots (cobots), multi-brand robot arm interoperability, and advanced material handling systems. Verve Industrial Protection has been rebranded to Rockwell Secure OT, which was a prominent presence in Rockwell's display area. Lots of conversations at the SecureOT booth, discussing asset inventory, risk analysis, and the new risk scoring features, while engaging with customers and IT/OT professionals to address practical use cases and integration challenges. Vibrant event culture, including pin-collecting, and swag at the SecureOT booth, the role of casual interactions in networking, and the significance of shared spaces like the lunch hall in fostering connections among attendees. Timestamps 00:36 – Preamble and recording kickoff 00:56 – Introductions by Lance, Tyler, and Natalie 01:37 – What is the Automation Fair, and where was it held? 04:54 – Robots, cobots, and robot inter-operatbility 18:04 – Workshops, keynotes, and collectible pins 27:26 – Massive space for lunch...and networking 28:11 – FIRST Robotics and Student Mentorship 32:25 – The SecureOT Booth Experience 46:24 – Wrap-ups, more robotics, and final takeaways Subscribe Follow and subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get in Touch 🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | X | Contact Us

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• Live from Verve Developers Gathering

  In this episode of OT After Hours, Lance Lamont, Special Projects & Protocols Team Lead, sits down with Tyler Bergman (Operations Team Lead) and Richard Melito (Senior Software Engineer) to discuss Richard's history at Verve and now Rockwell, the development process for Verve's software, and what standout features are in version 1.42 of the Verve Security Center (VSC). This episode was recorded at the end of September, but was under embargo until the release of VSC 1.42. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and explanation of episode embargo 01:46 – Introductions by Lance, Tyler, and Richard 03:07 – What is the Verve Development Gathering? 17:30 – Richard Melito's career trajectory 27:11 – "Software With Consequences" - real-world impacts of critical software 30:54 – The Integrations team and what they do, and Richard's current role 33:32 – Risk Management in VSC 1.42 and custom asset risk scoring 39:12 – Richard's thoughts on software and application development 42:24 – Wrap-ups, future podcast ideas, and the challenges of marketing 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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• 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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