organisations underestimating the risks associated with physical security, supply chains and outdated infrastructure. As digital technologies reshape the sector, these vulnerabilities demand urgent attention.
The unique contribution of chemical engineers
Chemical engineers design, operate and optimise a wide range of critical infrastructure where cybersecurity is paramount, ranging from nuclear power plants to biochemical reactors. The continued security and safe operation of these facilities is critical both to public confidence and to wider environmental and public wellbeing. Chemical engineers’ deep knowledge of OT environments means they can bridge the divide between IT and engineering operations, identifying vulnerabilities others might miss.
IChemE highlighted the importance of embedding this skillset into cybersecurity strategies in a recent roundtable, and this has been reinforced by a variety of recent incidents( such as on M & S and the Co-op).
From risk awareness to action
Chemical engineers can drive change by embedding cybersecurity into everyday operations. This includes identifying weak points in legacy systems, strengthening physical and supply chain security and promoting a culture of vigilance. As part of this transformation, engineers must also take an active role in training initiatives, ensuring that cybersecurity is understood and prioritised across all levels of operation.
Key challenges and skills gaps
Despite growing involvement, chemical operations still face significant cybersecurity gaps in some organisations. IChemE points to a lack of knowledge at senior levels, complacency around risk, and a shortage of skilled professionals, all of which hinder progress. Chemical and process engineers successfully drove a culture change to embed safety within their profession and we need to see a similar shift to prioritise cybersecurity. Bridging this divide requires upskilling chemical engineers, improving crossfunctional collaboration and ensuring cybersecurity becomes a core component of engineering education and professional development.
To support this shift, IChemE is promoting cybersecurity awareness and embedding it into its training and development pathways. Initiatives include incorporating cybersecurity into HAZOPs, fostering a proactive safety culture and collaborating with industry partners to share best practice. This work is aligned with a broader commitment to protect critical national infrastructure, ensuring that chemical engineers are prepared to tackle 21st-century risks head-on.
As AI-driven IoT continues to transform the chemical sector, the role of chemical engineers in cybersecurity will only grow. Their expertise will be essential in identifying vulnerabilities, designing resilient systems and fostering a culture of risk awareness from the control room to the boardroom. With the right training, tools, and institutional support, chemical engineers can become leaders in securing our most vital infrastructure, ensuring that innovation and safety go hand in hand in the digital age.
Learn more about the roundtable discussion around AI and machine learning or cybersecurity. Find out more about IChemE’ s training opportunities.
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