NY Power Authority Cyber Security Expert Wins Honor

The following announcement is from the New York Power Authority:

Lena Smart, vice president, information technology/chief information officer, New York Power Authority (NYPA), recently received the 2014 Energy Sector Leader of the Year award from EnergySEC at its 10th Anniversary Security Summit held in Austin, Texas.

Among Smart’s responsibilities is the protection of NYPA’s employees and cyber assets from hackers using cyber tools, social media and social engineering. She is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC). Smart is recognized as a global energy industry expert on matters related to computer security, vulnerability assessment and management, critical infrastructure protection and information management and is a frequent speaker and panelist advising on effective ways in which utilities can combat the threats posed by foreign and domestic hackers.

The annual Energy Sector Leader of the Year Award is determined by a panel of information technology industry experts. The individual must be a senior energy executive responsible for cyber security, demonstrate concern for the protection of critical infrastructure, engage in active participation in industry associations, and demonstrate innovation and creativity in their approach to security challenges.

EnergySEC is a not-for-profit organization that provides support and advice to its utility industry members for securing their critical technology infrastructure.

Photo: Lena Smart. Photo credit: New York Power Authority