This presentation explores the critical decision students face after completing their undergraduate degrees: pursuing a career in industry or continuing with academic research. Featuring Owen Stenstadvolden, a master's student working at the Smart Grid and Energy Research Lab at South Dakota Mines, the session provides insights into both career paths. In this presentation, Owen will share his experiences navigating both academia and industry, offering valuable insights to help undergraduate students make informed career decisions, particularly in the power industry. Speaker(s): Owen Stenstadvolden Room: 254, Bldg: EEP, South Dakota Mines, Rapid City, South Dakota, United States, 57701

Executive Panel: The Future of Colorado Energy and Markets The IEEE Denver PES/IAS Chapter is pleased to sponsor an exciting and exclusive panel session! This executive panel consists of people who are shaping the future of energy and markets in Colorado, including industry executives, experts, and a Colorado State Senator. This panel will discuss key transitions of the energy landscape, including Colorado utilities joining a Regional Transmission Operator (RTO) in the coming years and what wholesale markets may mean in the state. A networking reception sponsored by NEI Engineering will follow the panel session. The cost to attend this event will be $15 for IEEE members and $30 for non-members. This is an exclusive event, and space will be strictly limited. --------------------------------------------------------------- This event is brought to you by the IEEE Denver PES/IAS Chapter with IEEE PES High Plains as a co-sponsor, and with financial support from (https://ieee-pes.org/membership-chapters/member-driven-initiatives/). ***** Please contact jongrooters@gmail.com for more information. ***** Speaker(s): Chris Hansen, Colorado State Senator, Mark Gabriel, President & CEO of United Power, Robin Lunt, Chief Commercial Officer of Guzman Energy, Zach Pollock, Director of Grid Strategy & Emerging Technologies Bldg: Marriott Park Meadows, 10345 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree, Colorado, United States, 80124

Meeting for general administration and operation of the Black Hills Subsection. Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/434618

Abstract: As engineering systems become increasingly interconnected and reliant on digital technologies, cybersecurity is emerging as a critical concern across various fields. This presentation explores the role of cybersecurity in safeguarding innovations in industrial control systems, IoT devices, biomedical systems, and critical infrastructure. Key topics include the vulnerabilities associated with SCADA systems, the risks posed by poorly secured IoT networks, and the challenges of protecting connected medical devices. Real-world case studies, such as the Stuxnet worm, Mirai botnet, and WannaCry ransomware attacks, illustrate the devastating consequences of cyberattacks on essential systems. The presentation also covers best practices for engineers, such as secure coding and security-by-design principles, and highlights emerging trends like AI-driven cybersecurity and quantum encryption. Emphasizing the engineer’s responsibility in integrating security at every stage of development, this talk provides actionable insights for building resilient, future-proof systems. Speaker(s): Claudio Gallo Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/436144