ALA Event Planning and Management

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Cascadia College during PNW Climate Week, where we came together to advance climate action, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Guided by the leadership of Anquida A. Adams, CEO of A.L.A. Event Planning and Management and Eastside Lead, our track was more than a series of presentations—it was a catalyst for meaningful expertise, innovation, and lasting community impact.

One of our most compelling sessions featured Stephon X. Jones, whose timely presentation explored the evolving complexities at the crossroads of Information Technology (IT), Operational Technology (OT), and climate infrastructure. As climate solutions become increasingly digitized—through AI, smart grids, and environmental sensors—Stephon illuminated the opportunities and new vulnerabilities that accompany this technological transformation.

His session provided insight into real-world cybersecurity risks affecting climate systems, such as ransomware attacks on utilities and ports, vulnerabilities in distributed energy resources, and challenges posed by misunderstood sensor data. Participants examined how the drive for convenience can undermine resilience, why contextual understanding is critical for data use, and how modernization often expands digital threat surfaces. Rather than prescribing one-size-fits-all solutions, Stephon encouraged a thoughtful and philosophical approach, highlighting emergent patterns in automation, supply chain risk, and the crucial need for security-by-design.

Key Takeaways:

Recognize the complex boundaries created by IT/OT convergence.

Understand the limitations and risks of AI-driven climate technology.

Address operational blind spots from poorly contextualized sensor data.

Prioritize proactive, holistic digital security in climate infrastructure.

Embrace a reflective, systems-thinking perspective on innovation and resilience.

If you couldn’t attend in person, this video replay delivers an inspiring and actionable look at the digital dimensions of climate resilience. We invite climate advocates, community organizers, and allies to watch, share, and continue these vital conversations—because building secure and sustainable systems is foundational to a thriving Eastside and beyond.

The momentum continues beyond PNW Climate Week Eastside, with new opportunities for collaboration and progress. If you’d like to contribute or learn more, connect with 2025 Eastside Lead, Anquida A. Adams.

Thank you for your enduring commitment to climate innovation, security, and community resilience. Let’s keep moving forward, together.