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
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!
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
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
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
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
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 […]
FLIR Live at Convergint Unite 2025
We met with Jen Hones of FLIR at Convergint Unite 2025 to learn all about their innovative products. To learn more about their security solutions, go to flir.com.
Motorola Solutions Live at Convergint Unite 2025
We stopped by the Motorola Solutions booth at Convergint Unite 2025 to learn about their latest solutions. To learn more about Motorola Solution’s security products, go to motorolasolutions.com.
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
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…
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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…
Convergint and Deloitte Partner to Build Holistic Utility Security Solutions
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. The goal: to deliver deeper security insights and help utilities adopt a stronger, risk-based approach to protection.
In our conversation, we explored the challenges of convergence, ransomware, drone threats and vulnerabilities w…
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 ha…
‘Data Is the New Oil’: Talking Utility Security With Axis Communications’ Scott Dunn and Convergint’s Steve Sinclair
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…
Upcoming Chicago Symposium Offers Utility Security Professionals Key IT-OT Security Strategies & Insights
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 Cybers…
FLIR Live at Convergint Unite 2025
We met with Jen Hones of FLIR at Convergint Unite 2025 to learn all about their innovative products. To learn more about their security solutions, go to flir.com.
Opinion
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My! – Dominic Dillon & Curtis Marquardt
Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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…
Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June
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…
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
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…
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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…
Convergint and Deloitte Partner to Build Holistic Utility Security Solutions
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…
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 ha…
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 technologies and strategies for enhancing the resilience of utility infrastructures.
Read the article: https://utilitysecurity.com/blog/theft-ballistic-threats-explosives-oh-my/Key Takeaways:
-
Evolving Threat Landscape: Utility infrastructures are increasingly targeted by sophisticated threats, necessitating advanced protective measures.
-
Advanced Barrier Solutions: 3B Protection offers barriers designed to withstand ballistic impacts, forced entries, and explosive forces, enhancing physical security.
-
EMP and HEMP Protection: Incorporating copper-based compounds into building materials can shield facilities from electromagnetic pulses and high electromagnetic fields.
-
Fire Resistance Standards: Adhering to ASTM E119 standards ensures that materials can withstand extreme temperatures and direct water exposure, crucial for fire-prone areas.
-
Integrated Security Systems: Collaborations, like that between 3B Protection and Convergint, aim to provide comprehensive and cost-effective security solutions for utilities.
5 Questions & Answers:
-
Q: What types of threats are modern utility infrastructures facing?
A: Utilities are confronting a range of threats, including theft, ballistic attacks, forced entries, and the use of explosives, all of which require robust and adaptive security measures.
-
Q: How does 3B Protection’s technology address these threats?
A: 3B Protection develops specialized barriers and materials that provide resistance against ballistic impacts, forced entries, and explosive forces, enhancing the physical security of utility sites.
-
Q: Why is EMP protection important for utilities?
A: Electromagnetic pulses can disrupt or damage electronic systems. Incorporating EMP-resistant materials helps ensure the continued operation of critical infrastructure during such events.
-
Q: What is the significance of the ASTM E119 fire resistance standard?
A: ASTM E119 sets the benchmark for fire resistance, ensuring that materials can endure high temperatures and direct water exposure, which is vital for preventing fire-related damages in utility infrastructures.
-
Q: How do integrated security solutions benefit utility companies?
A: Integrated solutions, like those from 3B Protection and Convergint, offer comprehensive security by combining various protective measures, leading to enhanced safety and potential cost savings for utility companies.
#UtilitySecurity #InfrastructureProtection #EMPProtection #FireResistance #CriticalInfrastructure #UtilitySecurity
Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June
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
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
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…
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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 other indicators of malfunction.
At Convergint’s annual Unite event, I had the chance to speak with Jen Hones and Steve Sinclair about how thermal camera technology can help prevent wildfires, reduce maintenance costs and make remote locations more secure.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
So, let’s get into an operational solution. Fire detection—especially in areas like California—is exceptionally important. Can you talk about how your solutions are being used to detect fires, to make things safer, and also enhance security at the same time?
Jennifer Hones:
In the security industry, there are thermal cameras made just for general surveillance—looking for heat differences but without the need to measure specific temperatures. What FLIR has really been known for is our radiometric capabilities, which provide temperature monitoring.
But our products go beyond even that—we also offer trend analysis and alarming. They’re able to look at a situation and say, “Hey, this thing’s getting too hot. Let’s do something.”
When we think about the utility space, we can point our solutions at critical assets like substations or transformers and monitor them. When it comes to wildfire risks, this is critical in catching heat before it sparks.
There are so many FLIR technologies that can be used. We have handhelds, but we also have wide-angle security cameras. We also have teams that work with drones and cameras mounted to the underside of helicopters. So, we cover a lot of critical monitoring areas.
Steve Sinclair:
And to her point, FLIR has had a strong partnership with a lot of utilities for handheld devices—used in thermography and from a maintenance and service perspective. Maintenance employees have been using these devices to look at temperature fluctuations for a long time.
But there’s an opportunity now to use fixed-mounted cameras—which FLIR is expanding on— to enhance the operational side or the maintenance side. It allows us to be more proactive in terms of how we dispatch or leverage those maintenance or service technicians.
This presents a cost-efficiency opportunity—enhancing manpower through the use of technology. And when you start to look at security devices in an operational setting—or vice versa—there’s an opportunity to drive cost-effectiveness on both ends.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
So, from a security perspective, why is this technology important to utilities? Can you talk more about the value it brings to utilities looking to protect some pretty critical areas?
Jennifer Hones:
There are a number of utilities that have remote locations. That’s often what we’re talking with them about—how do they monitor these remote sites that are in more rural areas, or in challenging weather or low-light conditions? In those cases, thermal is almost your only option.
That’s where we’ve seen big success with perimeter intrusion detection systems that use thermal. Additionally, utilities like the inclusion of our analytics, especially being able to reduce nuisance alarms—like those triggered by animals. You don’t want to be alerted every time a fox runs by, but you do want an alert if a vehicle is pulling up that shouldn’t be, or if a person is approaching.
Steve Sinclair:
Depending on the density of the smoke, FLIR devices can actually see through what can’t be seen with the naked eye. Thermal provides the ability to see through certain levels of depth and density. It’s an enhancement in detection—not just assessment—but detection. Again, it’s all about driving the efficiency of the technology.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
I had a chance to get my hands on some of the products, and it’s pretty cool and innovative stuff. Where do you see the technology evolving in the future?
Jennifer Hones:
I think the focus will be on improving sensitivity and resolution—and evolving the analytics. The better those areas get, the more AI will be able to do.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
So why is it important for FLIR and Convergint to have a partnership?
Jennifer Hones:
It’s important to have a partner that is able to help the end user get to the right budget and the right design—and Convergint has been that partner for us. They’ve always been at the forefront of innovative technologies they want to introduce to their clients. Being a leader in that aspect means the customer gets the best service provider.
We have solutions that provide condition monitoring of critical assets and early fire detection, and Convergint has helped utilities best utilize these solutions.
Steve Sinclair:
That’s the exact reason why we’ve had this partnership for a long time. FLIR is a staple when it comes to thermal cameras and has been in the industry—specifically in utilities—forever. They’re the industry standard.
With their capabilities, and some of the acquisitions they’ve made into thermography and the automation side, it’s the future for sure in this industry. They have great products that not only provide security solutions but also solutions in operational settings.
Convergint and Deloitte Partner to Build Holistic Utility Security Solutions
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. The goal: to deliver deeper security insights and help utilities adopt a stronger, risk-based approach to protection.
In our conversation, we explored the challenges of convergence, ransomware, drone threats and vulnerabilities within industrial control systems — all pressing issues facing today’s utility security professionals.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
Recently, Convergint and Deloitte forged an alliance to work together. Can you talk about what inspired that and how it’s mutually beneficial to both organizations?
David Nowak:
From both sides, we saw a unique opportunity in the marketplace. Deloitte is focused on enterprise risk security, with an emphasis on cyber. We know that physical security is part of the enterprise, and we are always looking to combine physical security with cybersecurity — especially in the utility sector.
Steven Sinclair:
We saw an opportunity to take the physical and cyber conversation to the next level and have a holistic discussion. The alliance exists not only in the utility space, but universally across all of Convergint. We see this as a strong opportunity to drive additional value in the marketplace and to leverage both of our strengths as powerhouses in the industry.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
Convergence is a big topic among utility security professionals right now. How will this alliance help provide a better experience for utility customers?
David Nowak:
By approaching things with a physical security risk management posture — from deep experts like Convergint and its vendor partnerships — along with Deloitte’s cybersecurity perspective on enterprise risk management, we can combine these areas of expertise to solve the challenges of protecting utilities.
Steven Sinclair:
In the past, security was purely physical, right? Back in the day, it was guards, gates and guns — very much a defense-in-depth approach. But now, with evolving sensors and new capabilities, this is the next chapter.
When we say “holistic,” we’re talking about achieving positive business outcomes. It’s not just about safety and security anymore — it’s about IT, operations and every part of the business portfolio. This convergence allows us to apply enterprise risk management strategies across the entire organization.
That’s the value we’re bringing to the market — not a single-focus view, but a full enterprise perspective. We’re solving problems and driving value and efficiency across the board.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
What are some trends or areas of concern that utilities should start prioritizing?
David Nowak:
On the physical side, we remember the Metcalf incident — shooters conducting reconnaissance on substations. That’s still a real threat. And the drone threat is escalating, especially as we watch drones being weaponized in international conflicts — often cheaply and effectively. That concern is growing here in the U.S.
That said, drones can also serve beneficial purposes, such as performing reconnaissance on your own substations or remote plants — for both security and operational purposes. The advancements in sensors support asset conditioning, vegetation management and much more.
On the cyber side, the top concern is ransomware — or any cyber event that disrupts operations or impacts corporate systems. The Colonial Pipeline attack is a prime example.
In the past, if you asked me whether to pay a ransom, the answer was always “no.” Now, it’s become a business decision. Executives are asking: “Should we pay? What are the consequences to operations, safety, personnel, or customers? Can we trust the integrity of our data?”
Ransomware is now targeting industrial control systems. It’s happening more frequently, and we have to manage that threat.
When we talk about convergence, we must clearly define the physical segmentation between operational and corporate networks. As the number of interconnected digital devices increases, so does the physical threat footprint.
Steven Sinclair:
It can be as simple as improving software and patch management. We need a defense-in-depth strategy with a risk-based approach.
As threats evolve, so must our strategies. We need to think creatively about how we harden our security posture — both physically and digitally.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
David, you mentioned ransomware. We know adversarial nation-states are involved. Can you elaborate on that threat and potential mitigations?
David Nowak:
It’s real. It’s happening. And it’s complex. At the end of the day, you need defense in depth. You need to understand which assets are connected, how your systems are networked, and what your critical systems are. And most importantly, you need to know how to protect and recover them quickly. Managing this risk is essential.
Curtis Marquardt Jr.:
Final question — looking ahead, where is utility security headed in a positive direction that professionals might not yet be thinking about?
David Nowak:
I think the focus will be on breaking down traditional silos — physical security being only physical, and cyber being only cyber. We’ll start building shared use cases and playbooks to ensure those teams are not just in the same room, but also collaborating at the system level.
Legacy analog physical security — like door alarms and camera alerts — is becoming digitized. These are data points that need to feed into a common platform, just like we’ve done in cybersecurity. It’s about correlating digital, event-driven data in real time.
Steven Sinclair:
I completely agree. What Dave said is exactly why this alliance makes sense. There’s so much value in combining our capabilities.
Convergint brings over 20 years of experience as a systems integrator with a massive utility footprint and a specialized team. Deloitte brings the same caliber of expertise on the cyber side. Together, we can deliver a holistic strategy that serves the industry better than ever before.
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…
Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June
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…
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
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…
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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…
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…
Security Industry Association to Host Perimeter PREVENT Event This June
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…
Theft, Ballistic Threats & Explosives, Oh My!
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…
Beyond Security: How Thermal Camera Technology Is Being Used to Monitor Critical Utility Components
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…