Case Study: Building a Mature OT Cybersecurity Program for a Multi-Site Manufacturer
From Foundational Standards to Ongoing OT Cybersecurity as a Service
A large manufacturing client engaged UTSI, along with our partner, to strengthen the security, governance, and resilience of its operational technology (OT) environments. What began as an architecture standard for a single facility grew into a multi-year advisory partnership. Each phase built on the last, moving client from defining cybersecurity standards to making OT security part of everyday operational and strategic decisions.
Problem
Client needed a consistent, scalable way to secure OT across multiple facilities. Key challenges included:
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No standardized baseline: Client had no formal OT network architecture standard to guide secure design at its Arkansas facility or future sites.
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Inconsistent governance: Without a common framework, it was difficult to apply cybersecurity best practices consistently across divisions.
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New technology demands: Deploying OT security monitoring tools required expert validation that architecture and operational practices aligned with security objectives.
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Specialized expertise: Client needed ongoing access to OT cybersecurity knowledge as new initiatives and requirements emerged.
Solution
UTSI delivered a phased roadmap in which each engagement addressed a specific objective while building on previous work:
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OT architecture standard (January 2025): Developed a standardized OT network cybersecurity architecture for the Arkansas facility. It incorporates NIST, IEC 62443, and NERC CIP guidance into a repeatable design baseline.
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Enterprise best-practice advisory (June 2025): Expanded to security architecture reviews and expert guidance across divisions, helping put the standard into practice enterprise-wide.
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Technology-specific advisory (2026): Supported deployment of Nozomi and related OT security monitoring technologies, validating architecture, monitoring, and operational security practices.
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Ongoing advisory support: Provided recurring access to OT cybersecurity expertise for architecture reviews, technology deployments, and emerging security requirements.
Results
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A formal security foundation: A documented OT architecture standard now serves as the benchmark for future security improvements.
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Enterprise-wide consistency: Best practices are applied consistently across facilities, strengthening cybersecurity governance.
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Improved visibility: Expert-validated monitoring technology supports better operational visibility and risk management.
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Security as an ongoing function: OT cybersecurity moved from one-time projects to a sustained part of operational and strategic decision-making.