Cybersecurity Architecture for Innovative Advanced Manufacturing/Digital Engineering Hub

Phil Susmann

President, Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI)

Abstract:

Rowan University is launching an advanced manufacturing and digital engineering hub designed to serve as a collaborative space where industry, government, and academia converge to accelerate digital transformation. Central to this vision is the deliberate integration of cybersecurity architecture that protects intellectual property while enabling open innovation. As the DEHub welcomes its first partners and participants, attention will be given to establishing a cybersecurity foundation rooted in risk awareness, standards alignment, and layered defense strategies. The cybersecurity posture of the DEHub will support secure collaboration across disciplines and sectors, positioning the ecosystem to address the complexity of modern manufacturing environments and next-generation engineering solutions while safeguarding sensitive information from the outset.

Biography:

Phil Susmann is the President of Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI). During his time at NUARI, Phil has led NUARI's efforts in research, development, and education in the areas of cybersecurity, defense technologies, information advantage, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These activities supported the development of the DECIDE® Platform, an immersive exercise design and participation tool that simulates cyber-attacks for organizations and decision-makers in critical infrastructure sectors and the government, allowing them to exercise their abilities to prepare for and respond to cyber incidents effectively. Phil has served Norwich University as Chief Information Officer, Computer Information Systems Department Chair, and Norwich faculty. He developed cybersecurity programs for Norwich University, leading the university to be designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency in 2002. Phil also served as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and the senior leader responsible for the Senior Military Colleges Department of Defense Cyber Institutes in support of USCYBERCOMMAND. Phil has been a part of developing the Vermont Army National Guard Information Operations Schoolhouse and the Vermont Air National Guard 229th Cyber Operations Squadron. In December 2022, Phil was appointed by Vermont Governor Phil Scott to the State's new Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council. Phil graduated from Norwich University in Business and earned an MBA from Clarkson University.