Fundamentals of Critical Infrastructure Operations Training by Tonex
The “Fundamentals of Critical Infrastructure Operations” course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the operational aspects, challenges, and technologies involved in managing critical infrastructure systems. Covering a broad spectrum of sectors including power grids, water and wastewater plants, and cybersecurity for facilities, this course aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand, operate, and protect the essential services that support our society and economy.
Through a combination of theoretical concepts and practical insights,participants will explore the design, operation, and maintenance of critical infrastructure, along with the cybersecurity measures required to safeguard them against emerging threats. The course emphasizes a non-technical approach, making it accessible to a wide range of professionals while ensuring a deep understanding of each sector’s unique challenges and solutions.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the Fundamentals of Critical Infrastructure: Gain a solid foundation in the principles and importance of critical infrastructure operations, including power grids, water distribution, and wastewater treatment.
- Identify Infrastructure Components and Technologies: Recognize various pieces of equipment, facilities, and technologies associated with the operation and maintenance of critical infrastructure systems.
- Grasp Design and Operational Considerations: Understand the design considerations, operational strategies, and maintenance practices essential for the efficient and reliable functioning of critical infrastructure.
- Recognize Cybersecurity Threats and Vulnerabilities: Develop an awareness of the cyber threats and vulnerabilities facing critical infrastructure and the strategies to mitigate these risks, including compliance with NERC CIP standards.
- Apply Knowledge to Real-world Scenarios: Through case studies and example applications, learn how to apply theoretical knowledge to address practical challenges in the management and protection of critical infrastructure.
Target Audience:
This course is ideally suited for:
- Emerging Professionals: Individuals starting their careers in critical infrastructure sectors looking for a foundational understanding of operations and challenges.
- Non-Technical Staff: Employees in non-engineering roles within critical infrastructure organizations who wish to gain insights into the operational aspects of their industry.
- Policy Makers and Regulators: Government and regulatory agency staff involved in the oversight, regulation, and policy-making for critical infrastructure sectors.
- Security Professionals: Cybersecurity and physical security professionals looking to broaden their understanding of critical infrastructure to better protect these essential systems.
- Educators and Academics: Academics in fields related to public policy, environmental science, and emergency management seeking to understand the complexities of critical infrastructure operations.
This course offers a unique opportunity for a diverse range of participants to deepen their understanding of critical infrastructure, enhancing their ability to contribute to the resilience, efficiency, and security of these vital systems.
Course Modules:
Module 1: Power Grid Operations
Objective: Provide a foundational understanding of the electrical power grid, including key components, design principles, and operational strategies.
- Content Outline:
Introduction to the power grid: history and evolution. - Key components of the power grid: generation facilities, transmission and distribution networks.
- Overview of grid operations: balancing supply and demand, grid reliability and resilience.
- Maintenance and safety protocols.
- Future trends: smart grids and renewable energy integration.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants will recognize power grid components, understand grid operations, and appreciate the challenges in modern electrical power systems.
Module 2: Facility Cybersecurity
Objective: Introduce participants to the principles of cybersecurity as they apply to industrial and utility facilities.
Content Outline:
- Basics of cybersecurity: concepts and terminology.
- Cyber threats and vulnerabilities in industrial settings.
- Overview of NERC CIP (North American Electric Reliability Corporation Critical Infrastructure Protection) standards.
- Best practices for cybersecurity in utility operations.
- Case studies of cybersecurity incidents in critical infrastructure.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants will identify cyber threats, understand NERC CIP standards, and recognize best practices in facility cybersecurity.
Module 3: Water Plant Operations
Objective: Provide insights into the operations of water treatment and distribution systems.
Content Outline:
- Introduction to water systems: sources, treatment, and distribution.
- Key components of water treatment plants.
- Operations and maintenance of water systems.
- Regulatory and environmental considerations.
- Water quality and public health.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants will recognize components of water systems and understand the principles of water treatment and distribution.
Module 4: Wastewater Plant Operations
Objective: Offer an overview of wastewater treatment processes, regulatory guidelines, and operational considerations.
Content Outline:
- Basics of wastewater management: collection, treatment, and discharge.
- Key equipment and facilities in wastewater treatment.
- Wastewater treatment processes and technologies.
- Regulations governing wastewater treatment.
- Challenges in wastewater management and innovations.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants will identify the components of wastewater systems and understand treatment processes and regulatory frameworks.
Module 5: Steam Plant Operations
Objective: Explore the design, operation, and maintenance of steam plants.
Content Outline:
- Introduction to steam power: principles and applications.
- Components of steam plants: boilers, turbines, and condensers.
- Operation of steam plants: efficiency, safety, and control systems.
- Maintenance practices for reliability and longevity.
- Environmental impact and efficiency improvements.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants will recognize steam plant components and understand operational and maintenance strategies.