Ep 51: Chemistry to Cybersecurity: Oakley Cox's Unique Journey

In this episode, host Aaron Crow dives deep into the world of OT cybersecurity alongside guest Oakley Cox, the director of product for Darktrace OT. They explore the unique journey of how Oakley transitioned from a chemistry background to cybersecurity, highlighting the role of AI and machine learning in evolving OT environments.

With a focus on strategies for tackling cybersecurity challenges in critical infrastructure, the conversation covers the innovative ways AI is being used to enhance security measures and prepare for future threats.

Tune in for insights on how Darktrace is redefining security through AI, and the importance of adapting and innovating in the ever-evolving landscape of OT and IT cybersecurity convergence.

Key Moments:

05:49 Bridging IT and OT Skills

11:00 AI's Practical Use and Future Prospects

13:28 Rethinking Tabletop Exercises

16:39 Self-Learning AI for Network Security

21:37 "Security Vendor: Adapting to Cloud Risks"

26:22 OT Environment Change Awareness

35:28 Embracing Ambiguity in Data Analysis

38:52 AI-Assisted Unusual Activity Blocking

41:51 Enhancing Security with Smarter Tools

44:50 Power Utility Data Management Constraints

About the guest :

Oakley Cox embarked on an academic journey in chemistry, completing an undergraduate degree which led to a PhD position. During their doctoral studies, Oakley discovered a passion not for the hands-on lab work typically associated with chemistry, but rather for the emerging field of machine learning and big data. Their PhD research focused on integrating these computational tools to streamline laboratory processes, thus bridging the gap between traditional chemistry and modern technology. Recognizing that his genuine interest lay in the computational aspects, Oakley shifted his career focus post-PhD, seeking opportunities that allowed them to apply machine learning and big data solutions outside of the chemistry lab.

How to connect Oakley Cox : https://www.linkedin.com/in/oakley-c-73aa27111/

Resources Mentioned:
The AI Arsenal (Darktrace White Paper): https://www.darktrace.com/resources/the-ai-arsenal

Comparing AI Approaches for anomaly based threat detection (Research Journal): https://hstalks.com/article/7177/anomaly-based-threat-detection-behavioural-fingerp/

Connect With Aaron Crow: