Digital transformation is a ‘one-way street,’ says Nozomi CEO on Cyber Focus podcast

Digital transformation isn’t slowing down – and neither is the convergence of IT and operational technology (OT). That was the central message from Edgard Capdevielle, president and CEO of Nozomi Networks, during an April 30 episode of the Cyber Focus podcast hosted by Frank Cilluffo, director of Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security.

“We’re only going to automate more – automate everything,” Capdevielle said. “And IT and OT are only going to converge more. It’s a one-way street.”

The episode, recorded onsite at the recent RSA Conference in San Francisco, dives into the rising urgency of OT cybersecurity as industrial systems grow more interconnected and exposed to cyber threats. Capdevielle describes a three-phase evolution of the OT security market: from early evangelism, to centralized response after high-profile incidents such as the 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, to what he now calls the mainstreaming of OT security – driven in part by industry recognition and growing regulatory attention.

While OT cybersecurity has often been treated as a niche issue, Capdevielle argues it’s now a required “table stakes” responsibility for any operator of critical infrastructure. “Air gapping has been our number one enemy because it’s not real,” he said. “It’s brought a level of comfort that is not good for us.”

The conversation touches on everything from the growing role of AI in threat detection to the operational risks introduced by legacy systems, especially in sectors such as energy, manufacturing and transportation. Capdevielle also discusses the increased pressure on CISOs and boards to deliver visibility and resilience across converged environments.

“If you’re in critical infrastructure, cybersecurity is no longer optional,” Capdevielle said. “It’s a prerequisite for being a responsible operator.”

The full episode is available on the Cyber Focus podcast feed at the McCrary Institute website and here on Threat Beat.