Rupesh Shirke
Visionary in Critical Infrastructure Security
With over 17 years of expertise in safeguarding essential systems, I specialize in Critical Infrastructure Protection, ICS/OT Cybersecurity, and Security Leadership. As a dedicated mentor, engaging speaker, and global advisor, I'm committed to advancing cybersecurity standards worldwide while actively volunteering with industry-leading organizations.
Contact Me
About me
I'm Rupesh Shirke, a dedicated professional with over 16 years of experience in Critical Infrastructure Security, based in Bakersfield, California. My extensive background in operational technology (OT) security has given me profound insight into protecting essential services and infrastructure. Throughout my career, I've excelled both as an individual contributor and as a leader managing international teams, driven by my unwavering commitment to defending critical systems against evolving security threats.
As a passionate mentor, I guide the next generation of cybersecurity professionals by sharing knowledge and experiences that inspire growth in this vital field. My mentorship extends beyond the workplace through active engagement with aspiring experts. As a sought-after speaker and writer, I regularly participate in conferences and workshops, breaking down complex cybersecurity concepts into accessible information for both newcomers and industry veterans.
My leadership extends to co-founding an ISC2 chapter, where I lead a vibrant community focused on continuous professional development and staying current with rapidly evolving cybersecurity practices. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in cybersecurity, I aim to develop innovative solutions for complex industry challenges while serving as a global advisor on critical security matters.
My contributions to the field include collaborating with industry leaders on the ISC2 Standards & Practice Unified Body of Knowledge Technical Advisory Panel, helping shape cybersecurity standards with worldwide impact. I'm equally passionate about nurturing emerging talent, serving as a scholarship reviewer and judge for prestigious organizations like ISACA, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), and the Center for Cyber Safety and Education.
Community engagement remains central to my identity. I actively volunteer with numerous nonprofit organizations including the United Nations Association (USA), American Red Cross, Chevron Humankind, Code.org, Belief in Me, Houchin Blood Bank, Thriving Elements, and Upchieve, dedicating my expertise to empower others.
As an IEEE Senior member, I contribute extensively to the IEEE Computer Society, Control Systems Society, Security and Privacy groups, and other technical communities. My IEEE involvement spans from participating in Women in Engineering podcasts to reviewing STEM grant applications, engaging with NextGenCyberSec initiatives, and developing standards for AI and reliable power systems. Through these diverse roles, I remain committed to advancing cybersecurity excellence while promoting innovation and diversity in STEM fields.
Professional Expertise
OT Security Specialist
Providing comprehensive security consulting to organizations on implementing robust protection frameworks for operational technology environments that align with international security standards and industry best practices.
System Design
Architecting and implementing secure infrastructure systems with a focus on resilience, scalability, and strict compliance with regulatory requirements and industry-specific cybersecurity frameworks.
Global Impact
Serving as an influential member of ISC2 chapters worldwide, championing diversity initiatives in the technology sector, and mentoring underrepresented professionals to advance in cybersecurity careers.
Industry Involvement
ISA99 Committee Member
Contributing to international cybersecurity standards development for industrial automation and control systems
Young Professional Committee
Driving initiatives and mentoring emerging talent within the International Society of Automation (USA)
Awareness Campaigns
Spearheading public education programs on emerging cybersecurity threats and protective measures for organizations
Scholarship reviews
Evaluating international scholarship applications to support promising students in cybersecurity and automation fields
Create and update standard
Developing and refining comprehensive security protocols for critical infrastructure protection across multiple industries
Review articles
Providing expert technical assessment and feedback for peer-reviewed publications in cybersecurity and industrial automation
Volunteer Leadership & Community Contributions
Organizational Partnerships & Mentorship
  • United Nations Associations (USA) - Supporting global initiatives
  • Department of Energy's (DOE) Cyberforce - Enhancing national cybersecurity capabilities
  • American Red Cross - Serving on Project Management Competency team and as certified Instructor
  • Microsoft TEALS - Bringing computer science education to high schools
  • ISC² - Advancing information security excellence
  • International Society of Automation (ISA) - Promoting industrial automation standards
  • Women in Cyber Security (WiCyS) - Championing gender diversity in cybersecurity
  • Cyberpeace - Advocating for digital safety and security
  • Times Group "Teach India Initiative" - Improving English literacy
  • Chevron Humankind - Supporting community development programs
  • Codepath.org - Mentoring aspiring technology professionals
  • Believe in Me - Leading cybersecurity education efforts
  • Thriving Elements - Providing career guidance and professional development
  • UPchieve - Coaching students in academic subjects
Competition & Scholarship Evaluation
  • International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) - Evaluating global youth innovation
  • Kern County Science Fair - Assessing regional student research projects
  • California Science & Engineering Fair - Reviewing statewide technical achievements
  • Kern County Decathlon - Judging academic competitions
  • ISC² Cybersecurity Scholarships - Selecting promising security professionals
  • ISACA Cybersecurity Scholarships - Identifying emerging talent in information systems
Professional Experience
1
LTIMindtree (13+ years)
Advanced from Systems Engineer to Associate Principal and Cyber Security Architect, leading strategic security initiatives and architecting enterprise-wide cybersecurity solutions
2
Capgemini
Expert security consultant delivering comprehensive cybersecurity services for major European enterprise clients, focusing on risk assessment and security implementation
3
Capgemini
Skilled IT professional managing technical projects and implementing security best practices across diverse business environments
4
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL)
Project trainee contributing to IT infrastructure and security initiatives for one of India's leading oil and gas companies
5
Sulzer
Project trainee developing technical skills while supporting engineering projects for this global industrial engineering and manufacturing firm
6
Hito
Computer Security Specialist implementing robust security protocols and conducting vulnerability assessments to protect organizational assets
7
CodePath
Resume review volunteer providing career guidance and document optimization for students pursuing technical careers in cybersecurity and software development
8
American Red Cross
Volunteer consultant providing project management expertise and technical support for humanitarian initiatives and disaster response programs
Skills and Certifications
Technical Expertise
  • Operational Technology (OT) Security Architecture
  • Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment & Management
  • Enterprise Infrastructure Design & Implementation
  • Strategic Project Leadership & Delivery
Professional Certifications
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
  • EC-Council Accredited Chief Information Security Officer (ACISO)
  • Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Practitioner
  • Information Technology Infrastructure Library v4 (ITIL 4)
  • AWS Technical Professional Accreditation
  • Splunk 7.x Fundamentals Part 1
  • DevSecOps: The Big Picture
Language Proficiency
  • Marathi (Native Fluency)
  • English (Professional Working Proficiency)
  • Hindi (Professional Working Proficiency)
  • French (Conversational Competence)
Education
1
2
3
1
Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
University of Mumbai, 2004-2007
Specialized in Advanced Information Security and Systems Architecture. Graduated with distinction, completing thesis on network vulnerability assessment methodologies.
2
B.Sc. in Information Technology
University of Mumbai, 2001-2004
Core focus on programming fundamentals, database management, and systems analysis. Participated in university-wide technical symposiums and coding competitions.
3
Continuous Professional Development
Committed to ongoing education through industry-recognized certifications, specialized training programs, and advanced workshops in cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and emerging technologies.
Connect with Rupesh
Let's collaborate to transform your organization's security posture. Together, we can strengthen cybersecurity defenses, protect critical assets, and build a resilient digital future.
With extensive experience in critical infrastructure protection and OT security, I offer specialized expertise to organizations facing complex security challenges. My approach combines technical knowledge with strategic thinking to deliver solutions that address both immediate threats and long-term security objectives.
I believe in the power of knowledge sharing and community building within the cybersecurity ecosystem. By fostering strong professional relationships and mentoring emerging talent, we collectively enhance our industry's capability to combat evolving threats.
Connect with me for:
  • Strategic security consulting and risk assessment
  • Critical infrastructure and OT security expertise
  • Executive-level security awareness training
  • Industry conference presentations and workshops
  • Collaborative research on emerging security challenges
Your security challenges deserve personalized attention and proven solutions. Reach out today to discuss how my expertise can help safeguard your most valuable digital assets and strengthen your organization's security foundation.