Evolution of NC-CIPSeR by Perry Steckly

Twenty years after IPIS was formed, in 2023, NC-CIPSeR became a reality.  Here’s the beginning of that next chapter: By Perry Steckly

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in various sectors of critical infrastructure, from healthcare systems to supply chains, transportation networks, and public safety. These weaknesses led to widespread conversations about the need for greater resilience, better coordination, and robust contingency planning.

The Freedom Convoy, which brought parts of Canada to a standstill, further underscored the fragility of certain infrastructure elements, particularly in urban centers and along key transportation routes. The incident highlighted the potential for social movements and protests to disrupt not just daily life but also essential services, prompting a reassessment of how critical infrastructure is protected and managed.  Many folks working in this space recognized opportunities for improvement.

*Enter Bill Ulicny, Tyson Macaulay, Yves Poirier

Bill Ulicny, from the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) and with his background and interest in critical infrastructure, emerged as a key figure in these discussions. Ulicny began asking questions and exploring opportunities to collaborate with Carleton University, and specifically within the IPIS program. His goal was to further develop partnerships to help CNL move into the broader critical infrastructure protection space.  CNL has set the gold standard in security in the nuclear space for many years and were ready to share insight for CIP in general. The details of that partnership would evolve over time.

Tyson Macaulay, a subject expert in critical infrastructure interdependencies was looking at reconnecting with Carleton University and possibly publishing a few papers together.  We met, looked at his previous published material (he’s a prolific researcher) his work, his book and we connected. I’ve discovered that is what happens when ‘doers’ get together. Tyson has become a key member of our team, and I learn from him all of the time.

Yves Poirier and I officially worked on a national threat and risk assessment project together while he was at CNSC. Several years later, we faithfully continue our weekly meetings while exploring a variety of topics – both personal and professional.  Yves has been supporting and presenting in the IPIS Critical Infrastructure Risk Assessment Course I teach at Carleton for the past 4-5 years. Yves and I had been discussing options to help make Canada more secure – training, innovative products and businesses, new courses, etc. A need and an idea had been percolating for quite some time.

I have separate weekly and bi-weekly meetings with Bill, Tyson and Yves (and a host of others) – always strategizing and planning. And catching up. These sessions have been instrumental in building the foundation and moving the needle. I guard these sessions carefully and have developed meaningful friendships. (Note my plug here for one of my principles: Meaningful Work & Meaningful Relationships.) I’ve learned firsthand that each has an interest and passion for this work. They are innovative thinkers and doers. Shortly after Bill and I met, I rediscovered CIPSeR, an IPIS  ‘research centre’ with a solid foundation that needed an energetic refresh. I also explored a variety of other research centres and funding mechanisms to identify successful recipes. I started to explore the option of a not-for-profit and partnership models.

*Enter Carleton’s Alex Wilner, Teddy Sammy, Sandra Crocker and Chris Lannon

The conversations and meetings with Bill, Tyson and Yves sparked innovative ideas and potential collaborative approaches with Carleton University – who have been instrumental in their in-kind support.

Dr. Alex Wilner, Dean of IPIS and I had many conversations and brainstorming/strategy sessions.  Dr. Teddy Sammy, Dean of NPSIA always asked great questions and showed a great amount of support as we weaved this idea together.

Sandra Crocker, Chris Lannon and their team from Industry and Partnership Services have been extremely patient, helpful and supportive throughout MOU’s, and questions relating to funding and legal issues.

*Enter Chris Piercey – a game changer.

A happenstance lunch opportunity at Carleton’s Kanata North’s Hub350, where Chris Piercey (NRCan) and I connected and discussed Critical Infrastructure protection strategies.  I introduced the concept of NC-CIPSeR including Carleton University and Canadian Nuclear Labs as partners and before long, Chris and his NRCan team were all in.  The work Chris and his team are doing in cyber and energy space is incredible. A team of ‘doers.’  Bi-weekly strategy sessions with Chris Piercey are never long enough!  His understanding of NRCan, the breadth and depth of their work is outstanding and his ability and willingness to connect other teams, and add support in meaningful way is so helpful.  After every meeting, I feel thankful that Chris sat at my table for lunch – and that he is on our team. A great leader at NRCan and proud to call him a friend.

*Enter James Peck – an accelerator and amplifier

LCol James Peck (Ret.| Senior Advisor to CAF/DND) reached out to learn more about NC-CIPSeR. He was interested in the work we are doing.  But the real matter-of-fact truth is that the CI work his team has been doing far outweighs any work we’ve been able to accomplish. It’s impressive. After our first 3 hour meeting, we both knew a ‘doer’ when we saw one – and we knew that collaboration was a definite win/win.  Working with James and his team at CAF/DND is exciting and has the potential to accelerate and amplify our work. We are diving into the Energy Sector together with a task force comprised of our partners. Stay tuned for a more detailed update.  Over the past 6-7 weeks, James and I have spent approximately 20+ hours together, strategizing, planning and working toward making Canada’s critical infrastructure safer. James and I have set up our own weekly meetings, head-down and focused. And making time for great conversations and friendship.

NC-CIPSeR, a nimble and independent NFP, with proud partnerships.