ISA created the Global Cybersecurity Alliance to advance cyber security readiness and awareness in manufacturing and critical infrastructure facilities and processes. The Alliance brings end-user companies, automation and control systems providers, IT infrastructure providers, services providers, and system integrators and other cyber security stakeholder organisations together to proactively address growing threats.

ISA is the developer of the ANSI/ISA 62443 series of automation and control systems cyber security standards, which have been adopted by the International Electrotechnical Commission as IEC 62443 and endorsed by the United Nations. The standards define requirements and procedures for implementing electronically secure automation and industrial control systems and security practices and assessing electronic security performance. The standards approach the cyber security challenge in a holistic way, bridging the gap between operations and information technology.

Leveraging the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, the Global Cybersecurity Alliance will work to increase awareness and expertise, openly share knowledge and information, and develop best practice tools to help companies navigate the entire life cycle of cyber security protection. The Alliance will work closely with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and stakeholder organizations around the world.

"Accelerating and expanding globally relevant standards, certification, and education programmes will increase workforce competence, and help end users identify gaps, reduce risks, and ensure they have the tools and systems they need to protect their facilities and installations," said Mary Ramsey, ISA Executive Director. "Through the proliferation of standards and compliance programmes, we will strengthen our global cyber culture and transform the way industry identifies and manages cyber security threats and vulnerabilities to their operations."

The first Founding Members of the Alliance are leading multi-national, industrial-technology providers with deep expertise in technology and applications, and they'll apply their experience and knowledge to accomplish the Alliance's priorities.