ick is an industry-recognized leading advocate for the necessity to secure operational technology (OT) systems as they become more integrated into IT systems and other intelligent infrastructure on which the government, industry, and the public are becoming more reliant. As VP of Smart Cities, Government, and Critical Infrastructure, Rick routinely participates in and presents at industry conferences, including maritime; transportation; local, state and federal government; and smart city events. Rick most recently presented at the Transportation Research Board’s Annual Meeting and the Florida Cyber Conference as well as participating in the 10th Annual Maritime Risk Symposium. Part of Rick’s expertise stems from his time at Roam Secure, where he was a co-founder. The Roam Secure Alert Network was an emergency communication platform that successfully included large-scale high-speed text messaging to cell phones and other wireless devices, revolutionizing first responder and citizen notification in emergencies. Rick managed the 18-jurisdiction deployment of RSAN throughout the National Capital Region. This deployment stands as the national model for a regional system of systems providing communications interoperability for one of the most important cities in the world. During this time, Rick was elected to the board of the Partnership for Public Warning. Cooper Industries acquired Roam Secure, now part of Eaton Corporation.