Skip to main content

© All rights reserved.

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?


New Research from AXIS Communications Reveals Video Surveillance AI Perspectives

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interviews with AI experts from Axis’ global network and a comprehensive survey of […]

Helping Secure Tomorrow Today: The SIA Utilities Advisory Board’s Aims to Educate the Next Generation of Utility Security Leaders

In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advocates in an increasingly interconnected world. Modern utility security encompasses a sophisticated understanding of multiple interconnected disciplines that […]

Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My! – Dominic Dillon & Curtis Marquardt

In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions, such as advanced barriers and EMP-resistant materials, are evolving to meet these challenges. The […]

Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June

Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, government facilities and beyond. The symposium will bring together policymakers, federal agency personnel, […]

Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!

Talking Utility Security Barrier Solutions With Dominic Dillon, CEO of 3B Protection, and Brent Warzocha, Business Development Manager at Convergint
Ahead of my interview with Dominic Dillon, I visited the 3B Protection website and clicked on the section detailing how its products support utility security. I scrolled down the page to read the list. Then I scrolled down again. It struck me: This is a company that understands the depth and variety of safety and […]

Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components

Talking About How Security Equipment Is Expanding Into Other Areas of Operations With FLIR’s Security and Automation Sales Director, Jen Hones, and Convergint’s Utility Vertical Market Director, Steve Sinclair
Infrared technology has long been viewed as a solution that allows utilities to see beyond haze and fog for security applications. However, as more utilities look for ways to expand the use cases for security solutions, many are now applying the technology to monitor assets like substations and transformers — spotting signs of overheating or […]

Convergint and Deloitte Partner to Build Holistic Utility Security Solutions

Talking Unified Platforms, Cybersecurity and the Future of Utility Security With David Nowak, Principal at Deloitte, and Steve Sinclair, Utilities Vertical Market Director at Convergint
As the complexity of physical and cybersecurity grows for utilities, the need for a comprehensive understanding of risk has never been more critical. To address this, global systems integrator Convergint recently formed a strategic partnership with Deloitte — one of the world’s largest professional services networks and a member of the “Big Four” accounting firms. […]

Building the Bridge Between Physical and Information Technology

When it comes to convergence, the struggle is very real for utilities. The path forward to securing both physical and cyber infrastructure is riddled with challenges. As technology expands and interconnectivity becomes ubiquitous, so too does the risk landscape. At Convergint’s Unite event, I had the opportunity to speak with Genetec’s Andrew Elvish and Convergint’s […]

‘Data Is the New Oil’: Talking Utility Security With Axis Communications’ Scott Dunn and Convergint’s Steve Sinclair

Exploring Utility Security Best Practices, Emerging Threats & How AI is Quickly Impacting Human Monitoring
I had the honor of being invited to attend Convergint’s Unite event in Las Vegas earlier this year. Convergint hosts this annual event to bring together its sales, operations and business leaders to learn, grow their skills, connect with key partners, and recognize individuals and teams who have achieved significant benchmarks. During the event, I […]

Upcoming Chicago Symposium Offers Utility Security Professionals Key IT-OT Security Strategies & Insights

ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity Symposium Aims to Help Security Professionals Safeguard Critical Infrastructure From Cyber-Physical Attacks
The threats to — and attacks on — industrial control systems (ICS) continue to rise, and utility security professionals must have sound strategies in place to protect both operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems. This will be the focus of the upcoming ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity Symposium, happening June 3–4 in Chicago. The event will […]

New Research from AXIS Communications Reveals Video Surveillance AI Perspectives

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interv…
In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advocates in an increasingly interconnected world. Modern utility security encompasses a sophisticated understanding of multiple interconnected disciplines that form the backbone of contemporary infrastructure protection. This comprehensive approach integrates physical security infrastructure, advance…
In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions…
Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, gove…

Talking Utility Security Barrier Solutions With Dominic Dillon, CEO of 3B Protection, and Brent Warzocha, Business Development Manager at Convergint
Ahead of my interview with Dominic Dillon, I visited the 3B Protection website and clicked on the section detailing how its products support utility security. I scrolled down the page to read the list. Then I scrolled down again. It struck me: This is a company that understands the depth and variety of safety and security threats utilities must address. During our conversation, I learned more about the evolving technology that is making barriers, walls and gates even more secure. We also discussed how a joint effort with Convergint is helping utilities reduce the cost of installing additio…
Talking Utility Security Barrier Solutions With Dominic Dillon, CEO of 3B Protection, and Brent Warzocha, Business Development Manager at Convergint
Talking About How Security Equipment Is Expanding Into Other Areas of Operations With FLIR’s Security and Automation Sales Director, Jen Hones, and Convergint’s Utility Vertical Market Director, Steve Sinclair
Infrared technology has long been viewed as a solution that allows utilities to see beyond haze and fog for security applications. However, as more utilities look for ways to expand the use cases for security solutions, many are now applying the technology to monitor assets like substations and tra…
Talking Unified Platforms, Cybersecurity and the Future of Utility Security With David Nowak, Principal at Deloitte, and Steve Sinclair, Utilities Vertical Market Director at Convergint
As the complexity of physical and cybersecurity grows for utilities, the need for a comprehensive understanding of risk has never been more critical. To address this, global systems integrator Convergint recently formed a strategic partnership with Deloitte — one of the world’s largest professional…

When it comes to convergence, the struggle is very real for utilities. The path forward to securing both physical and cyber infrastructure is riddled with challenges. As technology expands and interconnectivity becomes ubiquitous, so too does the risk landscape. At Convergint’s Unite event, I ha…
Exploring Utility Security Best Practices, Emerging Threats & How AI is Quickly Impacting Human Monitoring
I had the honor of being invited to attend Convergint’s Unite event in Las Vegas earlier this year. Convergint hosts this annual event to bring together its sales, operations and business leaders to learn, grow their skills, connect with key partners, and recognize individuals and teams who have ac…

Video

New Research from AXIS Communications Reveals Video Surveillance AI Perspectives

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth intervi…

Featured Topics


New Research from AXIS Communications Reveals Video Surveillance AI Perspectives

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interv…
In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advoc…

In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions…
Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, gove…
Talking Utility Security Barrier Solutions With Dominic Dillon, CEO of 3B Protection, and Brent Warzocha, Business Development Manager at Convergint
Ahead of my interview with Dominic Dillon, I visited the 3B Protection website and clicked on the section detailing how its products support utility security. I scrolled down the page to read the list. Then I scrolled down again. It struck me: This is a company that understands the depth and variet…
Talking About How Security Equipment Is Expanding Into Other Areas of Operations With FLIR’s Security and Automation Sales Director, Jen Hones, and Convergint’s Utility Vertical Market Director, Steve Sinclair
Infrared technology has long been viewed as a solution that allows utilities to see beyond haze and fog for security applications. However, as more utilities look for ways to expand the use cases for security solutions, many are now applying the technology to monitor assets like substations and tra…

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond.

The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interviews with AI experts from Axis’ global network and a comprehensive survey of more than 5,800 respondents, including distributors, channel partners and end customers across 68 countries. The resulting insights cover AI integration and the opportunities and challenges that exist regarding security, safety, business intelligence and operational efficiency.

Axis’ research found that 62% of partners identify “AI and generative AI” as one of the most significant trends shaping the industry’s future, compared with 34% of end customers. This positions AI as the top trend for partner businesses—tied with “cybersecurity, risk and privacy,” which also garnered 62%. Among end customers, however, AI ranks third, with “cybersecurity, risk and privacy” leading at 61%. Additionally, half of partner respondents highlighted “analytics and actionable insights” as a key trend, while 36% of end customers agreed.

“AI remains one of the most powerful and transformative technologies within the video surveillance industry today,” said Mats Thulin, director, AI & analytics solutions, Axis Communications. “This new research reveals that while there are significant opportunities for AI to improve safety and security alongside business intelligence and operational efficiency, there must be a focus on ethical implementation and meaningful integrations to drive continuous value.”

Overall, the focus on AI and analytics signals a growing industry understanding of the many benefits of AI adoption, including greater efficiency, improved decision-making and enhanced output quality. However, end customers consider cybersecurity, risk and privacy to be a higher priority when it comes to technology integration, which likely signals ongoing ethical and compliance-related concerns surrounding AI. Trust, responsibility and accountability will be critical if providers hope to lead customers toward greater AI integration.

Report Reveals 9 Key Insights About the Acceleration of Cloud and Edge AI to the Growing Use of Facial Recognition

Participants of the study collectively revealed these nine key insights relating to cloud and edge AI:

  • AI adoption surges with differences between markets. Many view the technology as still growing, but recognize how it is evolving at different rates based on market and location.

  • The transition to cloud and edge AI continues to accelerate. In a hunt for easier scalability and faster processing, more and more are viewing cloud and edge AI as crucial to those goals.

  • Integration of diverse data is generating valuable insights. With the integration of diverse data sources, many believe this shift will fundamentally impact safety and security by providing a more comprehensive understanding of events.

  • Growing use of facial recognition. Many predict that facial recognition will continue to gain traction globally. While they express concerns about the ethics of this, they also acknowledge that there are ways of using this technology that align with ethical standards.

  • New opportunities for business intelligence and operational efficiency. Participants view AI integration as a means to empower network cameras to improve operations in a number of ways, including space optimization, people counting, asset tracking and more.

  • AI integration challenges: bridging expectations and capabilities. Participants expressed concerns about the challenge of effectively combining the right tools and technologies to achieve the desired surveillance and detection results.

  • Partnership and collaboration for effective and responsible AI integration. Participants emphasized the importance of partnering with organizations that align with the ethical challenges that may arise from implementing AI technologies.

  • Navigating responsible AI. Interviewees expressed concerns that decisions made by AI systems could become biased or unreliable. They also reiterated concerns about the legal and ethical challenges of using these tools.

  • The road ahead – future trends to watch. Participants acknowledged the difficulty in predicting future trends or solutions due to the rapid pace of technological development. However, they pointed to expectations of smarter AI pipelines and greater integration between AI and IoT sensors.

To read the full report, you can download it here.

In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advocates in an increasingly interconnected world. Modern utility security encompasses a sophisticated understanding of multiple interconnected disciplines that form the backbone of contemporary infrastructure protection. This comprehensive approach integrates physical security infrastructure, advanced cybersecurity frameworks, robust governance, risk and compliance (GRC) programs, comprehensive disaster recovery planning and integrated business continuity management. This multifaceted approach reflects the reality that today’s utility operations exist within a complex ecosystem where traditional boundaries between physical and digital security have dissolved. The days of securing isolated transformer substations, generating stations, transmission lines, data centers and control centers as discrete entities are behind us. Today’s security professionals must safeguard a vast, interconnected electrical ecosystem that includes:
  • Renewable energy integration: Solar farms, wind installations and battery storage systems that create new attack vectors and operational complexities.
  • Distributed grid technologies: Microgrids and smart grid technologies that multiply connection points and potential vulnerabilities.
  • High-demand computing infrastructure: AI data centers and cloud computing facilities that place unprecedented demands on power generation and distribution systems.
  • Smart city integration: IoT devices, electric vehicle charging networks and integrated urban systems that expand the attack surface exponentially.
  • Emerging technologies: Quantum computing infrastructure and next-generation communication systems that will reshape how utilities operate.
These components aren’t peripheral additions to our infrastructure — they represent the core of our future operations and are becoming essential to community resilience and economic stability.

Threat Landscape Evolution

Modern utilities face a multi-vector threat environment that includes:
  • Nation-state actors targeting critical infrastructure for strategic advantage
  • Ransomware groups seeking financial gain through operational disruption
  • Insider threats from employees with legitimate access but malicious intent
  • Physical attacks on substations and transmission infrastructure
  • Supply chain vulnerabilities in hardware and software components
  • Climate-related disasters that test resilience and recovery capabilities

Building a Utilities Advisory Board That Aligns With Strategic Foundations and Leadership Vision

The SIA Utilities Advisory Board emerged from a strategic recognition that the utility security sector required dedicated focus and specialized expertise. The Security Industry Association’s Board of Directors, under the visionary leadership of James Rothstein and with the full backing of CEO Don Erickson, identified a critical gap in industry support for emerging security professionals and the urgent need for systematic knowledge transfer. The board’s establishment represented more than organizational expansion — it signified a commitment to fostering innovation, sharing best practices and creating pathways for professional development in one of the most critical sectors of our economy.

Leadership Selection and Expertise

Finding the right leader for this initiative required identifying someone with both depth of experience and breadth of perspective. After an extensive selection process, I was honored to accept the role of chair, bringing over three decades of comprehensive experience including:
  • Infrastructure design and construction: Deep understanding of electrical distribution systems from design through implementation
  • SCADA and telecommunications: Expertise in the communication systems that form the nervous system of modern utilities
  • Integrated security approach: Practical experience implementing both physical and cybersecurity measures across diverse facility types
  • Global leadership: Management of international teams and cross-cultural security initiatives
  • Digital transformation and product development: Leading strategic initiatives that drive technological advancement and business growth within manufacturing environments
  • Consulting expertise: Orchestrating comprehensive security architecture solutions, including vulnerability assessments, risk analysis and innovative design methodologies specifically engineered for protecting critical infrastructure assets and operational continuity
From there, the mission became assembling a full working group — a carefully curated collection of industry leaders who bring diverse perspectives and a unified commitment to our mission. We knew we needed:
  • C-suite executives who understand the strategic implications of security decisions
  • Business owners and entrepreneurs who bring innovation and real-world experience
  • Hands-on practitioners with deep technical expertise in securing infrastructure
  • Global perspectives from professionals experienced in international threat landscapes
  • Academic and research leaders who contribute cutting-edge theory and practical application

Coming Together to Make an Impact Through Practical Solutions

To propel our mission, the UAB has implemented and continues to support several key initiatives:

Bi-monthly Meetings

Our bi-monthly meetings follow a structured agenda designed to maximize collective expertise. Each session includes:
  • Threat intelligence sharing
  • Technology assessments
  • Regulatory updates
  • Case study reviews
  • Best practice development

Educational Impact and Industry Engagement

To support industry education, we have organized two lunch-and-learn sessions hosted annually at ISC West and ISC East. These highly anticipated events consistently sell out and provide actionable, practical guidance — a testament to the industry’s recognition of our mission’s importance.

The NERC CIP Compliance Guide: Translating Complexity Into Action

One of our most significant achievements is the development of the Guide to NERC CIP Compliance, a comprehensive resource that simplifies complex regulatory requirements into actionable strategies. The guide was shaped by:
  • Former auditors
  • Utility professionals
  • Technology specialists
  • Risk management experts
Rather than just outlining what compliance entails, the guide offers roadmaps for achieving and maintaining compliance while enhancing security posture. It’s a free resource that is available to SIA members and is available to download here Global Knowledge Transfer and Conference Participation Many UAB members serve as thought leaders at international security conferences. This participation enhances our efforts through:
  • Early warning of emerging threats
  • Exposure to global security innovations
  • Insights from other regulatory environments
  • Cross-cultural security perspectives

Future-Focused Project Portfolio

Our current project portfolio includes:
  • Physical and cybersecurity integration
  • Governance, risk and compliance (GRC) frameworks
  • IT/OT collaboration
  • Insider threat detection
  • AI migration case studies
  • Audit preparation
  • Advanced threat modeling
  • Cross-sector collaboration
  • Technology integration
  • Workforce development
  • Research and development initiatives
The next generation of security professionals will leverage transformative technologies. Our role is to help them implement these tools effectively and responsibly. Areas of focus include:
  • Cloud infrastructure
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning
  • Mobility solutions
  • Advanced biometrics
  • Drone and counter-drone systems
  • Next-generation encryption

Join Our Mission

The SIA Utilities Advisory Board is seeking new members who bring:
  • Passion for critical infrastructure security
  • Professional expertise
  • Educational commitment
  • Global insight
  • An innovation mindset
We welcome professionals from a variety of sectors, including utility security, technology vendors, consultants, academia, regulators and international experts. To learn more, contact Ron Hawkins at rhawkins@securityindustry.org. We welcome interest from professionals at all career stages.

In Conclusion: Securing Our Collective Future

The work of the SIA Utilities Advisory Board represents a commitment to securing the infrastructure that modern society depends on. By blending experience with forward-looking innovation, we are building a foundation for lasting security excellence. The challenges are real, but with collaboration, education and innovation, we can prepare future leaders to protect our infrastructure. The SIA Utilities Advisory Board is ready — and we invite you to join us. About the Author: Joey St. Jacques has built a distinguished 30-plus-year career in the critical infrastructure sector, demonstrating deep expertise in electrical utility security and strategic leadership. As chair of the SIA Utilities Advisory Board and a member of multiple industry boards, he leads initiatives that drive innovation, improve protective practices and shape educational programs for emerging security professionals across global markets.  

Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My! – Dominic Dillon & Curtis Marquardt

In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions, such as advanced barriers and EMP-resistant materials, are evolving to meet these challenges. The conversation also covers the importance of fire-resistant materials and the role of integrated security systems in safeguarding critical utility assets. Listeners will gain insights into the latest te…
Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, government facilities and beyond. The symposium will bring together policymakers, federal agency personnel, architects, engineers and security solution providers for a full day of educational sessions and networking opportunities. In addition to covering protective design strategies from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Perimeter PREVENT will offer key insights into critical infrastructure security measures for data centers, with a focus on integrating physical and cyber strategies. Participants will also engage in interactive tabletop networking sessions designed to help forge connections and explore security strategies. For more information about this event, visit securityindustry.org/upcoming-events/perimeter-prevent.
Talking Utility Security Barrier Solutions With Dominic Dillon, CEO of 3B Protection, and Brent Warzocha, Business Development Manager at Convergint
Ahead of my interview with Dominic Dillon, I visited the 3B Protection website and clicked on the section detailing how its products support utility security. I scrolled down the page to read the list. Then I scrolled down again. It struck me: This is a company that understands the depth and variety of safety and security threats utilities must address. During our conversation, I learned more about the evolving technology that is making barriers, walls and gates even more secure. We also discussed how a joint effort with Convergint is helping utilities reduce the cost of installing additional security equipment by offering a more integrated solution. Curtis Marquardt Jr.: Substation shootings are more concerning than ever. Can you talk about how your products provide some solutions there? Dominic Dillon: Originally, when we started, we focused on anti-theft—providing barriers that prevented theft of materials that could bring value to an assailant. Now we’re looking at a whole different array of threats—from ballistic, to forced entry, to someone even crashing into a wall. We’ve seen a massive uptick recently in the potential use of explosives on utility walls. So, the threat landscape is totally changing week by week, and we’re addressing that with the solutions we bring to the client. Curtis Marquardt Jr.: Speaking of new threats, I was on your website earlier, and one thing that really stood out was a section that mentioned your products can provide protection from electromagnetic pulses (EMPs). Can you talk more about that danger? Dominic Dillon: Yes—EMP and high electromagnetic field (HEMP) are threats we’re seeing more of in the marketplace, particularly when it comes to scenarios like drones trying to listen through walls. We have a variety of different countermeasures. Some of it is actually built into the 3B mixture itself—different blends, copper-based compounds that go straight into our proprietary mix. That immediately provides signal-blocking protection in the walls. But that doesn’t necessarily protect things like doors. So, we have copper sprays we use inside doors to block those signals. And really, every single pipe, every single wire that goes into that building—internally and externally—needs a protective cover. You don’t want any signal leaks whatsoever. Curtis Marquardt Jr.: On the topic of protection—another increasingly critical issue is fire prevention. California recently suffered a devastating wildfire, and many of the state’s biggest fires have been sparked by utility equipment. Do your products offer any added value when it comes to fire protection? Dominic Dillon: The fire protection standard we use is the ASTM E119 test. It’s a recognized government test in the U.S. that involves placing a 10-by-10-foot wall sample in a frame, which is then rolled toward an 1,800-degree furnace. It peaks from zero to 1,800 degrees in just five minutes. The wall has to remain in place for the entire duration of the test—so, if it’s a four-hour test, it sits against that heat for four hours. After that, the wall is removed and then hit with a fire hose—50 PSI directly on it. There can’t be any leaks or other failures on the back side of the wall. Right now, we’re in the process of stepping our products up to meet the six-hour fire test. That will provide an even greater fire barrier—whether it’s around a transformer or a substation. Brent Warzocha: From a Convergint perspective, the joint technology solution we’ve partnered with 3B on [see sidebar below] offers the ability to act as the support infrastructure for both external and internal heat detection technology. So, if there’s an incident like Pacific Palisades or what happened in Hawaii a couple of years ago, our clients can use technology for condition monitoring and advanced heat warnings—specifically for substations and transformers. You can have a camera that acts as a security camera 95 percent of the time. But then, a few times a day, it can swivel to a predetermined location, zero in on a transformer, and take a heat reading. That reading can alert the security operations center if there’s an abnormality. Curtis Marquardt Jr.: Some really great fire solutions there! So, my final question is a future-looking one. Do you see any emerging security or threat trends related to utilities that you’re currently preparing solutions for—or anticipate needing to? Dominic Dillon: I know we’re always going to be leaders in terms of technology—whether it’s ballistic, forced entry, or whatever the threat may be. And we act very quickly. If a client has an issue, we do our best to come up with a solution. For example, the crash rating standard in the U.S. is a K12 product—50 miles per hour at 15,000 pounds. That’s the current benchmark. But we’re currently working on a test—based on multiple requests from U.S. clients—at 80 miles per hour with the same 15,000-pound payload. So, we don’t shy away from developing new products. We absolutely stay at the forefront of that. And what we’re seeing right now with utilities is that they’re planning three, four years out on project rollouts. They’re introducing heavier-duty protection systems around substations. That’s something we’re seeing more and more of. Brent Warzocha: When I do presentations on our joint solution with 3B, I usually start with a lighthearted comment. It’s funny that here we are in 2025, surrounded by IoT devices, AI, ChatGPT, and all this high-tech stuff—and the thing our customers are most interested in… is a wall. Over the last two or three years, we’ve started to field more and more requests for ballistic protection—whether it’s at the perimeter or at the asset level. So, we really are “back to the future.” Additionally, drones are top of mind for many organizations. The future of legislation is still unknown, and there are questions about what capabilities will be permitted. But right now, nothing is stopping clients from standing up ballistic barriers—and that’s top of mind for many of the clients we’re working with in the bulk energy space.

Convergint, 3B Team Up for Cost-Saving Wall Solution for Utilities

With the expense to install a pole near a substation often reaching six figures, installing security monitoring technology in this space is an expensive proposition. But a solution to reduce that cost was created through a partnership between Convergint and 3B. Watch the video below to see how a 3B wall is used to replace a pole installation and offers utilities a more cost-effective way to put cameras and other security devices up near high-voltage substation areas. 

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interv…
In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advoc…
In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions…
Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, gove…

Axis Communications has released its latest research report, The State of AI in Video Surveillance, which explores global industry perspectives on the use of artificial intelligence in the security industry and beyond. The report reveals current attitudes on AI technologies through in-depth interv…
In an era where utilities are facing unprecedented threats from both physical and cyber domains, the Security Industry Association (SIA) Utilities Advisory Board (UAB) is working diligently to prepare the next generation of security leaders. Through strategic education initiatives, practical guidance development and industry collaboration, the UAB is transforming how we approach utility security in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
The security landscape for utility professionals has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond incremental change. Today’s security professionals have evolved from reactive protectors to proactive strategic leaders, serving as thought leaders, change agents and technology advoc…
In this episode of the Utility Security Podcast, host Curtis Marquardt engages with Dominic Dillon of 3B Protection to delve into the escalating threats facing utility infrastructures, including theft, ballistic attacks, and explosive devices. They discuss how 3B Protection’s innovative solutions…
Security Professionals Will Gather in Washington D.C. to Share Knowledge & Insights Related to Perimeter Security Strategy
The Security Industry Association (SIA) will host its Perimeter PREVENT security event this June at the National Housing Center in Washington, D.C. The event will focus on providing insights into critical issues relating to physical perimeter defense for critical infrastructure, public events, gove…