DirectConnect

A cyber attack reached the edge of the electric grid, disrupted visibility, damaged equipment, and walked away. This isn’t theory anymore. Earlier this year, Dragos released an intelligence report on a cyber intrusion into Poland’s electric distribution systems. There was no massive blackout. No dramatic outage. And that’s exactly why this matters. This video explains why that incident wasn’t a failure — it was a proof of access. Attackers demonstrated repeatable access across distributed energy resources, disrupted communications, degraded operational visibility, and damaged equipment beyond repair. Then they stopped. Not because they couldn’t do more — but because they didn’t need to. What this signals is a shift the industry has been slow to confront: the grid is no longer centralized. Risk now lives at the edge — in DERs, remote access paths, identical configurations, third-party vendor connections, and visibility gaps that have been normalized for years. In this discussion, industry experts break down what the report really tells us about grid evolution, why cybersecurity and operations can no longer be separated, and how losing situational awareness may be more dangerous than losing power itself. If your organization relies on distributed assets, vendor access, or believes “low impact” systems aren’t critical — this conversation is about you. Link to the Document: https://hub.dragos.com/report/electrum-targeting-polands-electric-sector?_gl=1*1to76bn*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3Njk0NTQzOTguRUFJYUlRb2JDaE1JcGVYem92T3BrZ01WMnhxdEJoMV9NU3duRUFBWUFTQUFFZ0lMQnZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTg5NTc2Mjk3LjE3NjU4MzA1NTguMTI2MzI5MDEzMS4xNzY5NzM1MzYxLjE3Njk3MzUzNjE.*_ga*MzE1NzU4NDc2LjE3NjU4MzA1NjA.*_ga_8Z0JSJN44D*czE3Njk3OTYwMTYkbzckZzEkdDE3Njk3OTc1MDQkajYwJGwwJGgw*_ga_7C51GTM128*czE3Njk3OTYwMTYkbzckZzEkdDE3Njk3OTc1MDYkajU4JGwwJGg4NTE2OTYwMDg. #CyberSecurity #CriticalInfrastructure #OTSecurity #PowerGrid #EnergySector #GridSecurity #NERC #FERC #CIP #Compliance #Resilience #Audit #InfrastructureProtection #CyberAttack #ArcherEnergySolutions #Poland #Attack

NERC is considering a major shift in how CIP standards work — including a parallel “100 Series” designed for cloud and system-based environments. In this episode of Direct Connect with Archer, Steve Parker and John Fallon break down: Link to the CIP & Cloud Services Document: https://www.nerc.com/globalassets/standards/projects/2023-09/white-paper/project-2023-09-risk-management-for-third-party-cloud-services-white-paper_121825.pdf Is this the future of CIP… or a compliance headache in the making? #NERC #CyberSecurity #CriticalInfrastructure #CloudSecurity #NERCCompliance #OTSecurity #CIPStandards #ArcherEnergy

In the first Direct Connect of 2026, the Archer team looks ahead at what’s coming for critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, resilience, and compliance in the year ahead. Managing Partner Stacy Bresler is joined by Managing Partners Steve Parker and Brian Pauling, along with Archer's new Account Manager, John Fallon for a candid roundtable discussion on the biggest risks and trends shaping 2026, including: NERC CIP changesAISupply chain, physical security, and remote connectivityExtreme weather responseInverter-Based Resources (IBRs)unknownFrom boardroom priorities to frontline security teams, this conversation explores what leaders should be thinking about now to prepare for what’s next. 🎥 Watch to hear where the Archer team believes organizations should focus their time, funding, and people in 2026—and beyond. #DirectConnect #CriticalInfrastructure #Cybersecurity #NERC #CIPCompliance #OperationalResilience #AIinSecurity #IBR #GridTransformation #PhysicalSecurity #SupplyChainRisk #ExtremeWeather #CyberRisk #ArcherEnergySolutions

In this episode of Direct Connect, Stacy Bresler, Leonard Chamberlin and Steve Parker, Managing Partners at Archer, break down one of the most common (and dangerous) traps in NERC CIP and regulatory compliance: obsessing over your last audit. Auditors change. Risks change. Rules change. Teams change. So why are so many utilities still anchored to what happened 3+ years ago? From shifting threat environments to controls-focused audits, internal controls, and what it really means to be secure vs. simply “passing,” this conversation hits the heart of modern compliance. 👉 If you want to be ready for your next audit, this episode is a must-watch. #NERC #CIPCompliance #CriticalInfrastructure #DirectConnect #AuditPreparation #Cybersecurity #Utilities #PowerGrid #ArcherEnergy #RiskManagement

Episode: (Un)Manageable Rate of Industry Changes Critical infrastructure is evolving faster than ever — from accelerating NERC CIP regulations and IBR growth to cloud migration and expanding cyber threats. In this episode of Direct Connect, Stacy Bresler and Steven Parker discuss the challenges facing compliance, operations, and cybersecurity teams, and share strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing landscape. Whether you’re a compliance officer, engineer, or cybersecurity professional, this episode offers insights on managing risk, prioritizing efforts, and building resilience in today’s fast-paced energy sector.

As data centers expand into rural America, small utilities are facing big changes — from compliance challenges and workforce shortages to surging energy demand. In this episode of DirectConnect, Stacy Bresler and Brian Pauling discuss how AI, weather, and grid fragility are creating a perfect storm for the future of energy. #Hashtags: #DataCenters #EnergySector #GridReliability #NERC #Utilities #Compliance #AI #Infrastructure #RuralAmerica #DirectConnect #ArcherEnergySolutions

In this episode of Direct Connect, Archer Managing Partners Leonard Chamberlin and Steve Parker are joined by former FERC colleague and new Archer team member Barry Kuehnle to break down the newly approved NERC CIP-015-1 standard on Internal Network Security Monitoring (INSM). They explore the standard’s origins, timeline, implementation challenges, and key technical debates—from sensor placement to endpoint protection to software-defined networking. Whether you're in compliance, security, or policy, this discussion is packed with insights you won't want to miss. 🔗 Subscribe for more NERC/CIP updates and expert takes. #CIP015 #NERCCompliance #NERCStandards #INSM #InternalNetworkSecurityMonitoring #CriticalInfrastructureProtection #CyberCompliance #GridSecurity #UtilitySecurity #OTSecurity #ArcherEnergySolutions

In this episode of DirectConnect, Steve Parker and Stacy Bresler, Managing Partners at Archer, take a closer look at why inverter-based resources are suddenly on the radar. As the energy grid evolves, Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs)—like solar, wind, and battery systems—are playing a bigger role. But unlike traditional synchronous generators, IBRs interact with the grid differently, creating new reliability and cybersecurity challenges. Their rapid integration has caught the attention of regulators and operators who now recognize the urgent need for updated standards, visibility, and controls to ensure grid stability. IBRs aren’t just the future—they’re a current risk that demands attention. Links from the episode: NERC IBR Performance Issues Report: https://www.nerc.com/comm/RSTC_Reliability_Guidelines/NERC_Inverter-Based_Resource_Performance_Issues_Public_Report_2023.pdf NARUC - Cybersecurity Baselines for Electric Distribution Systems and DER: https://www.naruc.org/core-sectors/critical-infrastructure-and-cybersecurity/cybersecurity-for-utility-regulators/cybersecurity-baselines/ Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #IBR #ElectricDistribution #NARUC #Solar #Wind #BatterySystems #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Steve Parker and Brent Castagnetto, Managing Partners at Archer, dive into the latest updates in the NERC CIP world. While many were enjoying the holidays, NERC was busy pushing key projects forward, including virtualization updates, changes to baseline requirements, and new definitions impacting compliance. What do these changes mean for the industry? Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #NERCCIP #Changes #Security #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Leonard Chamberlin and Stacy Bresler, Managing Partners at Archer, sit down and talk about how to get started with Security Risk Management. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #RiskManagement #GettingStarted #Security #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Leonard Chamberlin and Brent Castagnetto, Managing Partners at Archer, sit down with IT Manager, Conor Martin, to talk about Archer’s new Datacenters and Disasters (D&D) Role Playing Exercises. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #DandD #RolePlayingGames #RPG #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Steve Parker, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Kyle Jones to talk about Externships. Externships are short-term, practical work experiences that allow students or professionals to observe and engage in a specific industry or career field. They are typically shorter and less formal than internships, often lasting from a few days to a few weeks. Externships provide an opportunity to shadow professionals, gain insights into day-to-day operations, and explore potential career paths without the commitment of a longer-term internship. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Externship #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Nick Weber, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Amy Stokes-Waters, a thought leader in cybersecurity, who shares her unique journey from a background in English and French to creating engaging security awareness training. They discuss the importance of inclusivity in cybersecurity and how diverse perspectives can enhance security practices. Amy introduces her innovative concept of a cyber escape room, designed to foster teamwork and problem-solving in a fun, interactive environment. Tune in for insights on breaking down barriers in the security field and making awareness training more enjoyable! Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Surveillance #Undercover #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Nick Weber, Managing Partner at Archer, dives deep into Surveillance Operations with Carlos Francisco, Sandra Stibbards and Scot Walker. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Surveillance #Undercover #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Leonard Chamberlin, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Austin Rappeport to talk about how we can lower risk through the use of automation. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Automation #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #FERC #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Nick Weber, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Christopher Stitt, Kathleen Fariss and Riccie Gargano to talk about The Kindness Games. #thekindnessgames Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #thekindnessgames #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500 #bekind The Kindness Games Book: https://www.amazon.com/Kindness-Games-Changed-Mindset-Community/dp/194578332X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5I9QB7C5LZHX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XXOw_osl6i8c_yYqZawTRSyFqOtuAEr3Jvra-ayMBdmRZ-iwZYMIX7XGjG7V1bAbLXXNoaD3rjv7Mt5eVmDwSW2tbkPKqy_TVSsu1v1fKnjJs4LsfBderTLWZGAOYZDJsuEw7mXauz06APjpWoyIrcRNvBB9AsQLLUhCbbz6-NEULVt7w4BIdSqg3FSnnEm0GL39-8Y_wOceNFc_9yXbrISkTXW5PmAbKN9QlVqQNqg.bv6_zawwhMGWWzbq1F7YkOWCHbfSwbMkvA72uyG3IIo&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+kindness+games&qid=1723561386&sprefix=the+kindness+game%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1

In this episode of DirectConnect, Steve Parker, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Chris Blask, VP of Strategy at Cybeats, to talk about SBOMs, which stands for Software Bill of Materials. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Challenges #CIP #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Brent Castagnetto, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with Tim Starr, a seasoned compliance analyst at APS with a background in IT and social work, shares insights on key priorities for entities managing compliance risks, effective policy operationalization, and the critical role of training in maintaining cybersecurity standards. They also explore the challenges and strategies involved in CIP-009, system recovery planning amidst evolving regulatory landscapes. Tune in for expert perspectives and practical advice on navigating compliance in the IT/OT environment. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #Challenges #CIP #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Stacy Bresler, Managing Partner at Archer, sits down with BlastWave’s Joe Baxter to explore the complexities of navigating cybersecurity challenges in critical infrastructure. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #BlastWave #ArcherEnergySolutions #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500

In this episode of DirectConnect, Leonard Chamberlin and Stacy Bresler, Managing Partners at Archer, sits down with Lisa Carrington, Director of Procurement for an IOU, to discuss the complexities and maturity levels of supply chain risk assessments, highlighting the importance of cross-functional processes and third-party evaluations, concluding that both the government and the electric sector need to collaborate for effective supply chain management. Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you! #SupplyChain #ArcherEnergySolutions #taylorswift #CriticalInfrastructure #PhysicalSecurity #Podcast #Cybersecurity #Compliance #NERC #CIPStandards #FiresideChat #Fortune500