Professional Summary
Professional Overview
James Brake is the Director of Operational Technology Cybersecurity Services at the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) in Austin, Texas. With over 20 years of experience in the energy and utilities industry, he specializes in operational technology (OT) cybersecurity, identity and access management, and enterprise information technology management.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Operational Technology Cybersecurity Services at LCRA, James is responsible for leading a team of cybersecurity professionals in securing the organization's critical infrastructure and operational technology systems. He oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive cybersecurity strategies, policies, and protocols to protect LCRA's assets and ensure regulatory compliance. Under his leadership, the OT Cybersecurity Services team has achieved significant milestones in enhancing the overall security posture of the organization.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, James served as the Identity and Access Management Lead at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), where he was instrumental in designing and deploying robust identity management solutions to secure the state's electricity grid. He also held positions as a Security Administrator at CPS Energy and in various IT management roles at Associated Electric Cooperative, including Database Administrator, Energy Management Systems Manager, and Information Technologies Manager.
Throughout his career, James has demonstrated a strong track record of driving process improvements, implementing innovative technology solutions, and leading high-performing teams to achieve organizational objectives.
Academic Background
James holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he graduated with distinction.
Areas of Expertise
- Operational Technology (OT) Cybersecurity
- Identity and Access Management
- Enterprise IT Management
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management
- Project Management and Team Leadership
Professional Impact
As a recognized subject matter expert in OT cybersecurity, James has been actively involved in industry associations and initiatives. He has presented at several conferences, sharing his insights and best practices on securing critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. Additionally, James has contributed to the development of industry standards and guidelines, further strengthening the overall resilience of the energy and utilities sector.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, technical expertise, and proven leadership skills, James Brake is well-positioned to continue driving innovation and excellence in the field of operational technology cybersecurity. He remains committed to empowering organizations to navigate the complex landscape of cyber threats and safeguard their critical systems and assets.
