Cyber Security Today Profile Series: Dr. Priscilla Johnson on Environmental Engineering, Water Strategy, and Cyber Intelligence

Podcast Information:

• Title: Cybersecurity Today
• Host: Jim Love
• Episode: Cyber Security Today Profile Series: Dr. Priscilla Johnson on Environmental Engineering, Water Strategy, and Cyber Intelligence
• Release Date: March 29, 2025

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Cybersecurity Today, host Jim Love embarks on a new initiative—profiling individuals with remarkable careers in the cybersecurity landscape. The spotlight falls on Dr. Priscilla Johnson, a pioneering figure straddling the realms of environmental engineering and cyber intelligence. Jim teases compelling insights and untold stories, especially highlighting Dr. Johnson’s experience with building a data center in South Africa amidst a severe drought.

2. Dr. Priscilla Johnson's Background

[00:01 - 02:10]

Dr. Priscilla Johnson introduces herself as an "Earth advocate" passionate about balancing technological advancement with environmental protection. Her academic credentials include a master's and Ph.D. from Purdue University in Environmental Engineering. Currently, she is completing a graduate certificate in Cyber Intelligence from James Madison University, focusing on the intelligence aspects of cyber warfare.

Notable Quote:

"I could be introduced as someone who is Earth advocate, who lives in the space between advancing technology and protecting the planet."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [01:16]

3. Data Center in South Africa and Water Strategy

[02:32 - 18:55]

Dr. Johnson discusses her role as the Director of Water Strategy at Microsoft, overseeing global data centers. A significant project was establishing Microsoft's first hyperscale data center in South Africa during a debilitating drought. Recognizing the immense water consumption of data centers, Dr. Johnson spearheaded initiatives to mitigate environmental impact.

She partnered with Microsoft Philanthropy and local agencies to install smart water meters developed by Itron, enabling leak detection and efficient water management. This approach ensured the data center operated without depleting the local water supply, earning accolades from local government officials.

Notable Quotes:

"Data centers should not be run on potable water... there needs to be a very responsible reuse strategy in place."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [06:34]

"There’s a way to do things that aren’t necessarily the most expensive way. There’s a way to do things that aren’t necessarily the most elaborate things. Simplicity is so beautiful."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [17:30]

4. Career Journey: From Environmental Engineering to Environmental Sustainability

[18:55 - 24:25]

Dr. Johnson delves into her transition from environmental engineering to environmental sustainability, highlighting her tenure at Dow Chemicals in Texas. She recounts the environmental challenges faced at Dow, particularly contamination issues related to Agent Orange manufacturing. This experience deepened her understanding of industrial environmental impact and reinforced her commitment to sustainable practices.

5. Challenges at Dow Chemicals and Moral Compass

[24:25 - 34:00]

While managing sustainability projects at Dow Chemicals, Dr. Johnson encountered significant ethical dilemmas, especially concerning data integrity and environmental compliance. After returning from maternity leave, she discovered discrepancies in data handling related to contamination reports. Despite managerial resistance, she took decisive action to ensure accurate reporting, underscoring her unwavering moral compass.

Notable Quote:

"I say that my work being the nexus between advancing technology and respecting the limits of what we have in the environment or what we don’t have."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [18:55]

6. Transition to Cyber Intelligence and Cybersecurity

[34:00 - 40:10]

Motivated by a deeper understanding of critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, Dr. Johnson transitioned into cyber intelligence. Inspired by witnessing the potential for cyber threats to disrupt essential services, she pursued a graduate certificate in Cyber Intelligence. Her focus shifted to analyzing and mitigating cyber threats targeting infrastructure, recognizing the intersection between environmental systems and cybersecurity.

Notable Quote:

"The intelligence piece is fascinating. You’re talking about using analytical methods to find out the who, the when, and the tactics, the techniques, the procedures of these cyber threat actors."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [35:11]

7. Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities and Preparedness

[40:10 - 48:25]

Dr. Johnson emphasizes the fragility of civil infrastructure in the face of cyber attacks. She shares her upcoming workshop on simulating a cyber attack on the Hoover Dam, highlighting the necessity of situational awareness and proactive defense measures. Both she and Jim Love agree on the underestimated risks posed by nation-state actors and the existing vulnerabilities within critical systems.

Notable Quotes:

"There are business email compromises, there are social engineering techniques to be able to extract information from people."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [43:45]

"The infrastructure we have is so old and so brittle that it could be taken out by anybody."
– Jim Love [45:07]

8. Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals

[48:25 - 53:19]

Dr. Johnson offers invaluable advice to individuals, especially women and minorities, aspiring to enter cybersecurity. She underscores the importance of self-awareness, continuous education, and networking. By engaging with resources like podcasts (e.g., Cybersecurity Today) and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, newcomers can stay informed and build essential connections. She encourages asking questions and embracing mentorship to navigate the complexities of the field.

Notable Quotes:

"Educating yourself and finding a vehicle that will give you whatever you need, wherever you are."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [48:25]

"Cybersecurity is very much a profession that wants you. We want you as a person to come in and grapple with some of these things."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [52:10]

9. Conclusion and Notable Quotes

Jim Love wraps up the episode, expressing gratitude for Dr. Johnson’s insights and highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in cybersecurity.

Final Notable Quote:

"I'm breaking into the profession. I'm on the cyber intelligence side. I'm not doing the IT part, although I understand it. Come, there's plenty of work to do."
– Dr. Priscilla Johnson [53:19]

Key Takeaways:

• Interdisciplinary Expertise: Dr. Johnson exemplifies the synergy between environmental engineering and cybersecurity, emphasizing the protection of critical infrastructure.
• Ethical Leadership: Her steadfast moral compass guided her through challenging professional environments, advocating for integrity and sustainability.
• Proactive Defense: The episode highlights the pressing need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard essential services against evolving threats.
• Mentorship and Education: Aspiring professionals are encouraged to seek continuous learning, mentorship, and active networking to thrive in the cybersecurity landscape.

This episode of Cybersecurity Today offers a profound exploration of the intricate connections between environmental sustainability and cybersecurity, championed by the inspiring journey of Dr. Priscilla Johnson. Her narrative serves as a beacon for professionals striving to make impactful contributions in safeguarding both our planet and digital infrastructure.