Navigating Cybersecurity Challenges in Manufacturing: Lessons from Lockheed Martin’s Thomas Marr

Security in manufacturing has become a critical concern as production systems become more digitized and interconnected. As this digitization advances, improving cybersecurity preparedness is vital to safeguarding operations and staying ahead of emerging threats.In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson are joined by Thomas Marr, Senior Cybersecurity Engineer at Lockheed Martin. They discuss the critical intersection of cybersecurity, manufacturing, and the aviation industry.Thomas shares his expertise on how the rapid pace of digital transformation—fueled by innovations such as AI, machine learning, and cloud computing—has reshaped the cybersecurity landscape. The conversation covers the unique challenges of protecting operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems in manufacturing, while providing valuable insights into the growing importance of supply chain security across the aviation sector.Tune in to learn how cybersecurity professionals like Thomas are navigating the ever-evolving threat landscape in manufacturing, applying continuous learning to stay ahead of bad actors, and ensuring the safety of both military and civilian aerospace operations. Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Intro(05:09) Developing a learning mindset in the cybersecurity industry(09:45) How military experience shaped Thomas’ cybersecurity career(10:49) IT vs. OT cybersecurity differences(12:30) Ensuring cybersecurity in manufacturing and aviation industries(14:35) Importance of visibility and monitoring in OT systems(16:04) Impact of rapid digital transformation on cybersecurity(17:40) AI and machine learning in aviation cybersecurity(19:01) Lockheed Martin’s approach to supply chain security(21:20) Managing cloud computing security in aerospace and defense(23:45) Securing operational technology (OT) in defense sectors(27:02) The evolving cybersecurity threat landscape(30:15) Lockheed Martin’s supply chain security measuresAdditional Links & Resources:Connect with Thomas Marr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomascmarr/Learn more about Lockheed Martin: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjackson/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Defending Your Business from Ransomware and Cyber Threats: https://bit.ly/4d0VGcfWEBINAR- End-to-End Excellence: Integrating Final Mile Logistics: https://bit.ly/3ZlpE7UWEBINAR- AI for SMBs: Unlocking Growth with Netstock's Benchmark Report: https://bit.ly/3AWtoCDWEBINAR- Pedaling to Profit: Trek’s Direct-to-Consumer Shipping Success Story: https://bit.ly/4gWMIzUWEBINAR- The ABCs of Cargo Security and Loss Prevention: https://bit.ly/3zAirpTWEBINAR- Supply Chain in 2025: Top 5 Labeling and Packaging Artwork Trends to Watch: https://bit.ly/3Y9FWiZWEBINAR- Future-Proof Your Logistics:...