Here are 10 of the main take-aways from his article:

• Real Estate Cyber Consortium (RECC) was formed in 2016 to address rising cyber threats in commercial real estate.
• RECC is a leading force in driving cybersecurity standards for the built environment.
• RECC represents over 45 organizations responsible for 12.5 billion sq. ft. of property management worldwide.
• RECC’s leadership board meets monthly to share insights on best practices and industry trends.
• 2023’s hot topics include network monitoring tools, risk frameworks, incident response plans, and integrating cyber into construction.
• Focus on the effect of operational technology (OT) on managing and securing built environments.
• Goal is to achieve “Cyber Harmony” through collaboration and adoption of best practices and specifications.
• There is a need for thought leaders to come together from various disciplines in the industry.
• It is important to bridge the gap between facilities and IT departments and implementing internal OT teams.
• The industry need to collectively develop a commercial real estate OT playbook, with advancements in technology and industry protocols.

Read Full Article Here

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This year marked my first attendance at the RealComm | IBCon Conference, and I must say that describing it as exciting would be an understatement.

RealComm | IBcon 2023 commemorated its 25th anniversary from June 13-15 in Las Vegas. The 3-day commercial real estate technology conference commenced with a day of pre-conference programs, where I led the day off with The Real Estate Cyber Consortium’s CRE Cybersecurity Forum.

Beginning at 9:00 am Tuesday morning, the CRE Cybersecurity Forum was eagerly anticipated by industry experts, professionals, and thought leaders, with few seats left unfilled. The session fostered discussions on the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity in real estate and technology.

We covered a wide range of topics, from nation state threats to the integration of cyber measures into the construction process. With an engaged audience of approximately 300 people, the session generated valuable takeaways. It was both an honor to host and participate in the event’s discussions.

Check out some highlights from “Integrating Cyber into New Construction and Commissioning Across Asset Classes” with Thano Lambrinos of QuadReal Property Group and Fred Gordy of Michael Baker International.

Throughout the conference, the vendor showroom buzzed with activity, featuring special interviews on the RealComm Live stage. I was ecstatic with overall traffic the RECC booth attracted while I shared the exhibit floor with some of the top manufacturers in the building controls industry showing the latest automated business solutions and state-of-the-art enterprise technologies tailored for the commercial and corporate real estate industry.

On the third day, I had the pleasure of leading an OT Network Design and Configuration Workshop, as one of the final sessions of the entire conference. Despite my initial expectations of a lightly attended session, the room was packed with an enthusiastic audience, eager to ask questions and share their experiences. By the workshop’s conclusion, participants had gained practical knowledge and skills necessary to effectively configure and manage OT networks. This newfound expertise enables them to enhance operational efficiency, resilience, and cybersecurity within their respective real estate organizations.

RealComm 2023 was brimming with countless memorable moments, leaving a lasting impact on both myself and the attendees. The industry will undoubtedly continue buzzing until 2024, when we come together once again for another remarkable event!

Greg Fitzpatrick, CxA
Business Development Leader- IoT and Integration, Cochrane Supply and Engineering
Executive Director, Real Estate Cyber Consortium

The post Realcomm | IBcon 2023 Recap: Creating Cyber Harmony in Commercial Real Estate and Its Supply Chain appeared first on Smart Building Design.

Here are some key points mentioned during the conversation:

1. Greg’s role: Greg mentioned that he works with consulting engineers to help them understand and write specifications based on new technologies and network requirements in building automation controls.
2. New website for consulting engineers: Cochrane Supply is launching a new website specifically for consulting engineers. This website will provide resources and best practices for smart building and building automation controls and control networks.
3. Differences between IP controls and traditional controls: Greg talked about the shift towards IP controls and more IoT-type technologies. He discussed the differences between IP (Internet Protocol) and MSTP (Master-Slave/Token-Passing) and highlighted the importance of understanding IP network solutions for the facility world.
4. Basic design principles for IP networks: Greg mentioned the importance of following basic design principles when setting up an IP network for building automation. This ensures a reliable and secure network infrastructure.
5. Consultants as trusted advisors: Greg emphasized the role of consulting engineers as trusted advisors. They play a crucial role in guiding clients and helping them make informed decisions regarding open systems and new technologies.
6. Evolution of consulting engineering: The discussion touched upon the evolving nature of consulting engineering, moving from one-to-one interactions to a more comprehensive and consultative approach.
7. Importance of consulting engineers: Greg highlighted the significance of consulting engineers and their contributions to the industry. He shared his own experience working for a small firm in the early 90s and the value consultants bring to projects.
8. Greg’s roadshow and ICcon: Greg talked about his roadshow, which is different from the early days of building automation controls. He also mentioned his upcoming involvement at ICcon (presumably an industry conference) and the cyber forum scheduled for the event.
9. Cybersecurity and real estate industry: The concept of “cyber harmony” was discussed in relation to the real estate industry. Best practice groups and the Real Estate Cyber Consortium were mentioned as initiatives focused on promoting cybersecurity in the industry.
10. Continuous learning and expertise: Greg emphasized the importance of staying relevant and understanding what an expert looks like, even if one may not be an expert in every aspect. Continuous learning and awareness of industry trends are key.

We want to thank Eric for having Greg on his show to share his expertise and knowledge.

The post Interview: Greg Fitzpatrick joins Eric Stromquist of ControlTrends Podcast (6/9/2023) appeared first on Smart Building Design.