CompTIA, a global leader in vendor-neutral IT training and certifications, announced on May 13, 2025, the development of its new SecOT+ certification. This program targets critical cybersecurity skills for operational technology (OT), addressing the growing security demands of tech-infused manufacturing and critical infrastructure environments.
CompTIA’s SecOT+ certification focuses on OT cybersecurity skills.
Bridges knowledge gaps between OT and IT professionals.
Targets roles like floor technicians and cybersecurity engineers.
Covers risk assessment, compliance, and secure configurations.
Addresses rising AI-powered cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.
Development begins later in 2025 with hands-on training emphasis.
The SecOT+ certification aims to equip OT professionals, such as floor technicians and industrial engineers, alongside IT roles like cybersecurity engineers and network architects, with a unified skill set. This initiative responds to the increasing integration of technology in manufacturing plants, power grids, and other critical infrastructure, which face growing threats from malware, ransomware, and denial-of-service attacks.
The certification will cover essential areas to strengthen OT security. These include risk assessment-driven cybersecurity approaches, compliance with regulatory frameworks, hardening techniques for secure configurations, managing third-party and supply chain risks, and securing legacy systems. This comprehensive focus ensures professionals can mitigate and remediate security risks effectively in industrial environments.
As James Stanger, chief technology evangelist at CompTIA, stated, “Governments, industry leaders and cybersecurity techs are struggling to address the human and economic impact of critical infrastructure attacks. It's time to streamline these efforts by creating a scalable, cutting-edge and cost-effective program. That's the best way to counter the emergence of AI-powered cyberattacks on our global infrastructure.” SecOT+ is designed to address these challenges with practical, hands-on training.
CompTIA’s analysis of 2024 Lightcast job posting data reveals over 180,000 OT job openings in the US, highlighting the demand for skilled professionals in this field. The SecOT+ certification will provide a standardized, ISO-accredited training pathway, ensuring professionals are equipped to protect critical infrastructure. As Katie Hoenicke, senior vice president of product development at CompTIA, noted, “With technology continuing to expand across physical environments, it presents both opportunities and challenges.”
CompTIA Inc. is the leading global provider of vendor-neutral information technology (IT) training and certification products. CompTIA unlocks potential in millions of aspiring technology professionals and careers changers. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions and training providers, CompTIA helps students build career-ready skills through best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources.
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