For the past two decades, efforts by CISA and other U.S. government agencies to improve operational technology (OT) cybersecurity have yielded little tangible progress. Despite increased budgets and initiatives, results have been minimal due to overlapping, conflicting, and unprioritized guidance documents that overwhelm rather than assist. Programs duplicating private-sector capabilities—such as vulnerability assessments and incident response offerings—are inefficient and fail to scale. The author argues that it’s time for a reset: the government should streamline its efforts, focusing only on areas that truly require federal involvement while letting the private sector lead on technology implementation.

This reset also presents a timely opportunity, as recent losses in government talent mean that experienced professionals are entering the job market. Organizations in critical infrastructure sectors can leverage this moment to recruit top OT security talent at more accessible terms than in previous hiring waves. In doing so, asset owners can build stronger internal security teams and fill gaps long overlooked, making smart hires now a strategic advantage in the face of evolving cyber threats.

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Source: https://dale-peterson.com/2025/08/19/us-government-reset-on-ot-security-is-an-opportunity/