Our team of PFAS experts are taking on a new challenge! Together with VEI Contracting, Inc. (VEI), a Canadian small-business remediation solutions provider, we are working to demonstrate technology that is capable of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction in contaminated media.

The Environmental Challenge Of PFAS

PFAS are widely detected in soil, groundwater, and surface water, and have become one of todayтАЩs most significant environmental issues. Known as тАЬforever chemicalsтАЭ because they are highly resistant to breakdown and can be found in the environment for decades. Parsons has been working on technologies to destroy PFAS, rather than cleaning it up and storing the chemicals.

Government Support For PFAS Destruction Innovation

VEI has received advisory services and funding support from the Government of Canada to undertake this PFAS destruction testing as part of the тАЬDestruction of PFAS compounds in contaminated mediaтАЭ challenge through the Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) program. The Phase 1 ISC funding will allow the VEI and Parsons team to develop a proof of concept to demonstrate the feasibility of ParsonsтАЩ proprietary PFAS destruction technology in the aqueous phase including water, wastewater and groundwater. 

Advancing PFAS Destruction Technology With Parsons’ Photochemical Solution

ParsonsтАЩ Photochemical PFAS destruction technology is patent-pending developed through internal research and development. This ISC project will allow Parsons and VEI to complete a desktop demonstration of the technologyтАЩs ability to destroy 99 percent of the PFAS in water or wastewater. Future phases of the challenge will look to demonstrate success in field applications.  

The post тАЬForever ChemicalsтАЭ No More: Delivering Innovative PFAS Destruction Solutions appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Fixed fire suppression systems are designed to control or extinguish fires. They include┬аwater-based systems like sprinklers, deluge, water mist, and standpipe systems, gas-based and clean agent systems, and foam and dry chemical systems. To extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, the systems often contain aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Unfortunately, these compounds persist in the environment, bioaccumulate, and are linked to potential health risks.

What Problems Are Caused By Aging AFFF?

Over time, AFFF can degrade, causing clogging, corrosion, or residue buildup in piping, pumps, and nozzles. A thorough cleanout ensures optimal system performance and longevity. When switching to fluorine-free foam (F3) or other alternatives, it is critical to clean out the system. This helps avoid cross-contamination, which could compromise fire suppression effectiveness or cause chemical incompatibility issues. Some AFFF formulations contain hazardous chemicals that could pose risks to firefighters and maintenance personnel during system use and servicing. Therefore, proper decontamination helps mitigate exposure risks.

Decontaminating and reusing the fixed fire suppression system is often far less expensive than system replacement. Also, decontamination can reduce the liability associated with disposing of PFAS-impacted system components. Transitioning to F3 requires thorough cleaning of the system to remove AFFF and PFAS residues.

Many governmental agencies including the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state and local regulatory organizations, and the European Union are enforcing restrictions or implementing outright bans of PFAS-containing foams and other products. As of January 1, 2022, with some exceptions, EPA has prohibited the manufacturing or distributing of AFFF in the United States.  

Testing And Certification

It is important to work with a licensed and experienced fire protection professional engineering firm when performing testing and certification of fixed fire suppression systems. There are regulatory compliance standards that must be adhered to during system testing and certification. Key agency standards include the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards, Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) Regulations, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) Approval, Local Fire Codes, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) Requirements.

AFFF Removal And Rinsate Treatment

TRS Group (TRS), a Parsons company, uses specialized equipment and a decontamination solution, PerfluorAd, invented by Martin Cornelsen, the managing director of Cornelsen Umwelttechnologie GmbH.

PerfluorAd is a biodegradable, plant-based oleic acid that ionically binds to and removes PFAS from the wetted surfaces of fire suppression systems, including sprinklers, deluge valves, pipes, tanks, cannons, and proportioners. TRSтАЩs approach uses concentration, sedimentation, and filtration to remove and separate PFAS compounds from the generated rinsate. This process allows discharge, with regulatory approval, to the sanitary sewer.

TRSтАЩs method removes far more PFAS than rinsing with water. Typically, our approach achieves PFAS concentration reductions greater than 99%. Furthermore, we have conducted extensive testing more than two years after implementing our process with results demonstrating virtually no rebound.

The post A Breakthrough For AFFF Decontamination In Fire Suppression appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Firefighters have practiced extinguishing fuel-based fires at fire training areas (FTAs) by applying aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), which contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These compounds can persist in the environment for centuries. FTAs have become a significant source of PFAS to groundwater. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated some PFAS compounds as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Therefore, there is great interest in remediating PFAS-impacted soil and groundwater.

Remediating FTAs can be challenging, as they often are paved with concrete or asphalt. Besides contaminating those materials, PFAS usually impacts the surrounding soils and underlying vadose zone. Also, runoff may result in PFAS spreading to the surrounding areas, such as swales or lowlands.

The TRS Group Solution

TRS Group (TRS), a Parsons company, has patented a robust solution. The method allows TRS to treat all soil types, including clay, asphalt, concrete and other debris. These materials are often found at FTAs and construction sites. TRS heats the soil and debris, either in situ or ex situ, using thermal conduction heating (TCH). This process can achieve soil temperatures greater than 400 degrees Celsius (┬░C), volatilizing and desorbing PFAS off the impacted materials. Vapor treatment occurs at the surface.

Suggested Remediation Approach

After a consulting engineering firm determines the depths and areal extent of impacted soils, debris, concrete and asphalt requiring treatment, a contractor would excavate the nearby impacted areas. The contractor would then place the soil on top of the FTA, building a treatment cell. TRS then would install its TCH heaters and vapor extraction screens in the constructed cell. Additionally, it would insulate the cell to minimize heat losses. Thereafter, TRS would connect the heaters and vapor collection system to the power and surface treatment equipment.

TRS estimates that typical remediation duration to be three to six months. This duration includes the thermal desorption, capture and treatment of the PFAS.

PFAS Remediation Experience: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) In Anchorage, Alaska

Funded by the Department of WarтАЩs (DOW) Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP), TRS has applied its method at three sites. The first two were small demonstration projects. However, the third involved remediating a 2,000 cubic yard soil pile at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage, Alaska.

At JBER, TRS heated the soil pile for 89 days and achieved an average temperature of 638┬░C. The independent laboratory, using EPA Method 1633, reported non-detects for all 40 method analytes in the composite sample.

Adopting such an approach, property owners can minimize groundwater impacts and reduce their long-term liability.

The post PFAS Removal In Fire Training Areas: A Guide appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Learn more about Jeff Gibson, PerfluorAd Market Solutions Manager at TRS, A Parsons Company.

Title: PerfluorAd Market Solutions Manager
Location: Michigan
Year Started at TRS: 2025
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Grand Valley State University
Associations: Member of American Fire Association & National Fire Association
Focus: Business development; relationship building

TRS: Tell us about your background and what brought you to TRS Group.

Jeff: While in college, I worked part time for a fire protection contractor. After graduating, I became a full-time employee installing systems and then moved to business development. I started hearing about PFAS about 10 years ago. Joining a foam manufacturer, I became involved in transitioning fire suppression systems from AFFF to F3.

When I heard TRS had technology for cleaning out systems, I reached out to them. Being here allows me to stay in the fire protection industry, help protect firefighters and clean-up the environment.

TRS: What does your day-to-day look like with your role in the PerfluorAd business?

Jeff: There is no typical day. I could be traveling to a conference or working remotely to wrap up a proposal. TRS people are client focused, which is a great fit for me and rewarding.

TRS: Tell us about a recent project that was particularly satisfying.

Jeff: A multi-national manufacturer just awarded us a project to clean a fire suppression system at one of its facilities, which could lead to cleaning out systems throughout the United States.  

TRS: Tell us about your aspirations at TRS.

Jeff: When you consider our technologies, people and opportunities, TRSтАЩs growth potential is huge. My goal is to become the point of contact for our clients in the fire protection industry who are developing strategies to deal with their PFAS challenges.

The post Employee Spotlight: Jeff Gibson appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

The Arrowhead Associates, Inc./Scovill Corp. Superfund Site (the Site) is in VirginiaтАЩs Northern Neck region between the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers. Historical manufacturing activities, including degreasing and electroplating, resulted in chlorinated volatile organic compound (CVOC) and 1,4-dioxane impacts to soil and groundwater.  In 2011, a company purchased the property for tactical training activities, including comprehensive anti-terrorism and force protection for United States and international militaries and law enforcement agencies. In a settlement agreement with the owner, a sub-slab depressurization system and modified heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units were installed to reduce trichloroethene (TCE) concentrations in indoor air to below regulatory standards. 

Added to the National Priorities List in 1990, the SiteтАЩs early remedial actions included soil capping, soil vapor extraction, and installation of a zero-valent iron permeable reactive barrier. Despite these efforts, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determined in its 2016 Five Year Review that the remedial actions were neither protective of human health and the environment in the short nor long term.

In 2020, EPA amended the Record of Decision (ROD), having determined that the primary groundwater contaminants, tetrachloroethene (PCE) and TCE, were most likely to pose a threat of vapor intrusion. Further, the TCE concentrations in groundwater were indicative of the presence of dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL). EPA concluded the contamination represented a continuing source to groundwater and vapor intrusion and that in situ thermal remediation (ISTR) and in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) would be the final remedial measures for the source zone and downgradient groundwater plume, respectively.

EPA selected TRS Group, Inc. (now a Parsons company) and Jacobs Engineering (Jacobs) to implement ISTR via electrical resistance heating (ERH) in the defined 1.3-acre treatment area, which was entirely below the building. EPA, TRS and Jacobs worked with the property owner to minimize impacts of the remedial activities to the ownerтАЩs operations and to coordinate drill rig and field transformers ingress and egress, as well as delivery and placement of the thermal treatment equipment via cranes. 

Constructing the ISTR system in the occupied building presented some unique challenges. Relocating the ammunition and weapons in rooms within the building required coordination among the property owner, TRS, Jacobs, EPA, and the US Army Corps of Engineers prior to commencing intrusive work. Additionally, the building contained obstructions, including tactical training areas, large pieces of equipment, walls, structural elements, and low ceilings. After locating subsurface utilities and surveying subsurface infrastructure locations and building features, TRS and Jacobs developed a demolition plan to allow drill rig access, removal of some training areas, removal of drop ceilings, and wall penetrations for cables and piping.

The ISTR design includes 226 dual-element electrodes, 52 temperature monitoring points, and 16 vacuum monitoring points. The ERH system conveys the extracted vapors to three condenser/cooling tower units, where TRS/Jacobs cools and condenses the vapors. Thereafter, the system conveys any remaining vapors via vacuum blowers to vapor-phase granular activated carbon vessels for treatment and pumps the condensate through liquid-phase granular activated carbon. The treatment compound is located inside a fenced area outside of the building.

Prior to ERH startup, Jacobs installed temporary fences around the perimeter of the electrode field and treatment equipment compound. We placed signs on the fences and locked and secured access doors from the inside to prevent the property ownerтАЩs employees and visitors from inadvertently entering the electrode field. We held meetings with the property ownerтАЩs employees and local emergency responders to explain the ERH remediation process, locations of emergency stop buttons, emergency access points, and notification procedures.

During startup, our personnel conducted voltage safety testing within the electrode field and outside of the treatment area where workers and visitors had access. Where we identified voltages exceeding our internal voltage limits, which are lower than OSHA standards, we mitigated the voltage risk by application of a surface coating, installation of grounding grids, or placement of rubber mats.

TRS has operated the ERH system since September 2025 and has input 70 percent of the design energy. Using a photoionization detector (PID) to measure the concentration of the vapors prior to treatment, TRS estimates removing 3,340 pounds of CVOCs from the subsurface. Collecting vapor samples for laboratory analysis and monthly groundwater samples, Jacobs has verified a declining trend in CVOC concentrations.

Defining success is an integral part of a thermal remediation solution. Meeting weekly, TRS, Jacobs, EPA, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and EPAтАЩs oversight contractor review data with respect to the multiple lines of evidence approach to achieving the remedial goals. Indicators used to determine when to terminate heating include subsurface temperatures, asymptotic mass removal, energy input, and declining concentrations of PCE, TCE, and 1,4-dioxane in groundwater. The team expects to complete the project in the first few months of 2026.

The post ERH In An Active Facility appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Cybersecurity threats facing the water sector arenтАЩt some far-off concernтАФtheyтАЩre here, theyтАЩre persistent, and theyтАЩre only getting smarter. Domain name system (DNS) vulnerabilities, phishing attempts, lateral movement inside your networkтАФthese arenтАЩt just buzzwords; theyтАЩre the daily reality that the water sector can no longer afford to ignore. Ransomware, for example, can bring operations to a screeching halt. But the more sophisticated attacks? Those are the ones that keep people up at night. 

In this blog, weтАЩre going to dig into the trends and incidents that are happening at our client water utilities across the country. WeтАЩre here to shine a light on whatтАЩs going on behind the scenes and why every utilityтАФno matter the sizeтАФneeds to take cybersecurity seriously before itтАЩs too late. 

Key Cybersecurity Concerns Found By Cyberzcape┬а

Our Security Operations Center (SOC) has had a front-row seat to the evolving threats facing water utilities across the country. While every system is different, weтАЩve identified several key vulnerabilities and recurring issues that have popped up time and time again in the water sector over the last few months. Spoiler: the hackers arenтАЩt playing around.┬а

OpenDNS DNSCrypt Communications

One of the more commonтАФand concerningтАФfindings is not inherently malicious but can be used by attackers to obfuscate DNS traffic and bypass detection mechanisms. In one instance, our SOC team detected suspicious OpenDNS DNSCrypt communications at a water utility. DNS, often referred to as the тАЬphonebook of the internet,тАЭ is a crucial part of how all systems communicate. When attackers manipulate or hijack DNS, they can intercept or redirect network traffic, putting the integrity of the entire system at risk. ItтАЩs like someone secretly rerouting your mail to an entirely different addressтАФonly, in this case, the stakes involve essential water services.

Lateral Movement Is The New Break-In Playbook┬а

Another red flag weтАЩve seen involves WinRM/WMI traffic, which can signal not only lateral movement but also enable remote code execution, data exfiltration, and system compromise. This is the digital equivalent of a burglar creeping from room to room, looking for anything valuable. If not detected early, lateral movement allows attackers to dig deeper into the network, gaining access to critical systems and data. Beyond just network exploration, the use of WinRM/WMI can lead to executing commands that control the entire system and extract sensitive data. At one client site, we saw signs of this very behavior, suggesting that attackers could have been probing for weaknesses to exploit. In the water sector, such weaknesses could lead to major disruptions, from altered chemical levels to halted operations. 

Passwords In Plain Sight, Yet Again…┬а

LetтАЩs not forget about cleartext credentialsтАФthose old-school, unencrypted usernames and passwords floating around on the network like itтАЩs 1995. Exposed credentials remain a significant vulnerability that requires immediate attention to avoid unauthorized access. Our team recently flagged this issue at another utility, where cleartext credentials were detected in the network traffic. Leaving credentials exposed is like handing an intruder your house keys, and yet, itтАЩs still something we encounter in environments that should know better, and we encounter it A LOT. 

Convenience With Risks Using Remote Access┬а

Remote access is another common weak point. WeтАЩve identified Citrix/GoToMyPC activity at a number of facilities. While remote desktop software can be convenient, itтАЩs also a glaring vulnerability if not properly secured. In critical infrastructure environments like water utilities, access through remote tools can lead to operational control by malicious actors. This type of vulnerability came to light in 2021 with the Oldsmar, Florida incident, where a hacker used TeamViewer to try and poison the water supply. If attackers gain access, they could control everything from water flow to chemical treatments, making it a critical area for vigilance. 

Phishing For Trouble┬а

While network vulnerabilities can bring attackers inside, weтАЩre also seeing more traditional attack vectors like phishing continue to evolve. Cyberzcape, our real-time threat detection and response platform, is seeing more instances of phishing attempts and malicious DNS queries, targeting everything from email accounts to network servers. ItтАЩs not just the IT systems at risk; the operational technology (OT) networksтАФthe ones that control the actual water treatment processesтАФare also being probed. As the lines between IT and OT blur, these threats make it more challenging to defend infrastructure comprehensively. This means utilities need stronger, integrated defenses that span both environments.┬а

Preparing For WhatтАЩs Next In Water┬а

The cybersecurity threats weтАЩve outlinedтАФwhether DNS vulnerabilities, lateral movement, or phishingтАФare just the beginning. The truth is, the water sector canтАЩt afford to wait. As these threats evolve and become more sophisticated, utilities of all sizes need to strengthen their defenses. Ignoring the risks will only lead to more incidents, greater disruptions, and potentially devastating consequences.┬а

But hereтАЩs the good news: we are here to help. WeтАЩre not just flagging vulnerabilitiesтАФweтАЩre giving water utilities the tools they need to proactively protect their systems. Cyberzcape monitors, detects, and stops threats in real-time to keep water facilities secure 24/7, ensuring youтАЩre never caught off guard. And for those looking to stay ahead of the curve, our Cybersecurity Playbook for the Water Sector offers a comprehensive guide to building stronger, more resilient defensesтАФstep by step.┬а

The risks are here, but so are the solutions. Take action now, secure your infrastructure, and ensure the safety and reliability of your water systems for years to come. At Parsons, weтАЩre not just your partner in cybersecurityтАФweтАЩre your partner in safeguarding the future. 

The post Behind The Scenes Of The Water SectorтАЩs Cybersecurity CrisisтАФAnd What You Need To Know┬а appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Our Drinking Water Is Under Attack

The United States’ critical infrastructures, such as our safe drinking water systems, are more vulnerable to cyberattacks than ever before. Water utilities have become an increased target for hackers, with the potential consequences extending far beyond the financial damage caused by ransomware attacks. A successful cyberattack can disrupt essential operations, steal sensitive information, and even endanger public health by manipulating the treatment processes to poison drinking water. This stark reality underscores the importance of safeguarding our water systems to protect not just infrastructure but also the lives of the people who depend on them.

Cyberattacks on water utilities can have catastrophic outcomes. For instance, hackers could remotely access systems to open and close valves, override alarms, disable pumps, or tamper with chemical dosing. Such actions can lead to untreated or improperly treated water being distributed to the public, posing serious health risks. These threats highlight the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to ensure the safety and reliability of our water supply.

The Environmental Protection Agency has been tracking these issues, and itтАЩs not pretty. Inspections have identified significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities in water systems. Over 70% of the systems inspected since September 2023 were found to be in violation of basic Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. These violations included missing sections of the Risk and Resilience Assessments (RRAs) and Emergency Response Plans (ERPs). Inspectors discovered alarming deficiencies, such as failure to change default passwords, using single logins for all staff, and not curtailing access for former employees.

Our dedication to protecting vital systems has allowed us to assist over 600 utilities across the nation in maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses. With the introduction of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), we’re excited to continue expanding our support, helping even more utilities get ahead of cyber threats with enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Understanding The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)

Recognizing the increasing threat of cyberattacks, the EPA has implemented the CWSRF to bolster cybersecurity efforts across the country. The CWSRF operates much like a bank, offering low-interest loans to public, private, and non-profit entities for water quality projects, including cybersecurity enhancements. These funds are repaid and then recycled to fund additional projects, ensuring continuous improvement and protection of our water infrastructure.

The significance of the CWSRF cannot be overstated. By providing financial assistance, it enables utilities to implement crucial cybersecurity measures that might otherwise be out of reach. This not only helps in protecting the infrastructure but also in building resilience against potential cyber threats.

Eligibility For The CWSRF Program

Each state’s CWSRF program comes with its own set of criteria and priorities, but generally, it offers assistance to a wide range of entities involved in water infrastructure projects. Eligible projects might include:

• Risk and Resilience Assessments: Evaluating the security of electronic, computer, or other automated systems used by utilities.
• Cybersecurity Training: Workshops, seminars, and other training events aimed at enhancing cybersecurity awareness and response capabilities.
• Technology Upgrades: Updating outdated computers and software, enhancing the security of IT and OT systems, installing or updating SCADA systems, and more.
• Physical Security Enhancements: Implementing measures such as locking doors and cabinets, installing intrusion alarms, and protecting network cables.

The flexibility of the CWSRF allows states to strategically focus their programs using Intended Use Plans (IUPs). These plans outline the goals, operations, and compliance measures of each state’s CWSRF program, making it possible to prioritize cybersecurity projects that are most needed.

For instance, the CWSRF can fund the development of contingency and emergency response plans, ensuring that utilities are prepared to handle cyber incidents efficiently. Additionally, it supports the procurement of cybersecurity tools and technologies, such as advanced threat detection systems (like Cyberzcape), upgrading legacy control systems, and secure network backups, which are essential in mitigating cyber risks.

How We Can Help

At Parsons, we’re not just about identifying problems; we’re about providing solutions. We understand the complexities and challenges that utilities face in the realm of cybersecurity. That’s why we’re committed to helping you put together a comprehensive, long-term cybersecurity strategy that addresses your specific needs. We also are here to help any utility craft their Intended Use Plans for the CWSRF.

Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the process, from conducting initial risk assessments to implementing advanced cybersecurity measures. We’re dedicated to ensuring that your water systems are not only protected against current threats but also resilient against future ones. Our clients consistently praise our comprehensive approach and deep understanding of their unique challenges. By working closely with each utility, we’ve been able to tailor solutions that provide maximum protection and peace of mind.

Partner With Us For A Secure Future

As cyber threats continue to evolve, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. At Parsons, we’re ready to help you navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and ensure the safety and resilience of your water systems. Don’t wait for a cyber incident to occurтАФtake proactive steps to protect your infrastructure today.

The post Enhancing Water Security With Parsons And EPA’s Low-Interest Loans appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

AmericaтАЩs drinking water infrastructure has a big problem right now: extremely loose cybersecurity policies and mandates. This isnтАЩt a new thing. In December 2023, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) announced that hackers had breached several US water facilities by exploiting systems with default set passwords. In another December 2023 attack, hacker groups breached the equipment of a Pittsburgh-area water utility that manages water pressure through other social engineering schemes. In 2021, a hacker took things to an even more malicious level in Tampa, Florida by exploiting weak cyber practices to increase the level of toxicity in the drinking water by a factor of 100. The common factor in all three instances: extremely loose cybersecurity policies and mandates. CISAтАЩs response to the recent hacks was a bare minimum suggestion: тАЬUse strong, unique passwordsтАЭ. This is far from the only problem going on here.

I remember learning in my Computer Science 101 class that computer-generated random numbers are not actually random. Shocking, right? The system uses an algorithm, or set of instructions, to build a random number that can be reverse engineered. In the utility space, we utilize random number generation for several important purposes like secure password generation, encryption codes, security protocols, anomaly detection, and simulation. A classic example is password generation. A twelve-digit password takes 62 trillion times longer than a six-digit password to hack. That extra time is important in intercepting unauthorized users or programs тАУ the longer they take to get in, the higher the chance of being found out and stopped.

But, what on Earth does this have to do with lava lamps?

Some businesses are taking the idea of password generation to a whole new level by leveraging lava lamps. Made popular in the 1960s, fitting perfectly with shag carpeting, conversation pits, and a big sound system playing Pink Floyd, lava lamps are a piece of moving sculpture that offers an endless array of shapes and patterns, making each viewing experience unique. The lamp’s fluid dynamics, where blobs of wax heat up, rise, and then cool down to fall back to the bottom, offer a hypnotic, calming effect that has captivated people for decades.

Now in the 21^st century, the movement and patterns of the lava lamps are captured by cameras and turned into a stream of random numbers. These random numbers are then used to create encryption keys to secure systems. This randomness is important in encryption and security applications because predictability can lead to vulnerabilities.

It’s a fascinating approach to make encryption and cybersecurity more secure. But cybersecurity, especially for water facilities, is a multi-faceted beast and thinking the problem is as simple as тАЬWe need a better lock on this one thingтАЭ is far from the only action an organization needs to take. This is not groovy at all. An organization, especially utilities providing essential services like drinking water, needs to make their IT and OT systems painful to hack with as small an attack surface as possible. Systems need to be regularly updated, strong policies for authentication and access need to be addressed regularly, and of course, since threats and hacker attack tactics change daily, the IT department needs to be aware 24/7 of what new defenses they need in place as fast as possible.

Parsons is helping utilities around the country address the critical problem of how an IT team can leverage technology to secure their networks on all fronts. Our solution, Cyberzcape, is a powerful and comprehensive tool that helps water utilities monitor, detect, and respond to cyber threats in real time. Cyberzcape integrates with existing IT and OT systems, providing a unified dashboard that displays the network status, alerts, and incidents. It also uses advanced analytics and machine learning to identify anomalies, vulnerabilities, and attack patterns, and provides actionable recommendations and automated responses. With Cyberzcape, water utilities can secure their networks from end-to-end, ensuring the safety and reliability of their critical infrastructure beyond just тАЬupdating your password.тАЭ

If you want to learn more about how Cyberzcape can keep your network тАЬGood Vibes OnlyтАЭ and help you protect your water systems from cyberattacks, contact us today and request a free demo. We are ready to assist you with our expertise and experience in cybersecurity and water management.

Stay safe, stay groovy.

The post Are Lava Lamps The Secret To Safe Drinking Water? appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Title: Corporate Safety Manager
Years at TRS: 1.5

TRS: Please tell us a bit about your background and how you became our Corporate Safety Manager.

Matt: I spent 21 years in the US Air Force as a Loadmaster on the C-130 and an In-flight refueler on the KC-135. While I spent most of my time flying and deploying around the world, I managed multiple safety and training departments when I was in the office. I also attended a variety of safety courses and schools throughout my career and enjoyed that expanded duty. When I retired from the military, I took a position with a waste and recycle company as a Safety Supervisor.

While I really enjoyed the job, I was seeking a higher-level management position, one that could help to have more of an impact on day-to-day safety on-site. I saw TRS was hiring for a Safety Manager and the job description seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. I applied and after a few interviews here we are.

TRS: Why do you believe safety is so important within the workplace, specifically in our industry?

Matt: In our line of work, environmental hazards can leave an employee with lifelong health issues. A commitment to safety protects employees from injuries, illnesses and fatalities, creating a secure environment. Implementing safety protocols helps to prevent accidents and long-term health issues.

TRS: What are some common safety hazards in our industry and how do you address them?

Matt: Some common safety hazards are Electrical, Chemical, and Slips, Trips and Falls.   

We have a very robust training program that not only teaches our field staff how to identify hazards but also how to mitigate hazards.

TRS: Please share some of the safety initiatives you have implemented or continue to encourage.

Matt:

• Regular Safety Training Sessions
• Hazard Identification and Reporting Programs – Encouraging employees to actively participate in hazard identification and reporting fosters a collaborative safety culture. Establishing a user-friendly reporting system empowers employees to promptly report unsafe conditions, enabling swift corrective action and prevention of accidents.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Programs
• Open Communication Channels – Promoting safety in the workplace thrives on open communication. Encouraging employees to voice their safety concerns, suggestions, and observations establishes a culture of transparency.

TRS: How do you stay updated on the latest safety regulations and practices?

Matt: Continuing education. I take courses, read the latest regulations and develop training courses to not only grow professionally but also to make sure our employees are getting the most up to date information.  

TRS: What do you enjoy most about working with TRS?

Matt: The people. I really enjoy getting to know each person, talking with them on project sites or virtually.

The post Employee Spotlight: Matt Pockette┬а appeared first on Parsons Corporation.

Position: PerfluorAd System Specialist I
Location: New Jersey
Specialties: PerfluorAd operations and site supervision
Education: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Stockton University in Galloway, NJ
Certification: OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER Certified, OSHA Eight-Hour Site Supervisor, OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety and Health Certified, Forklift Certified

TRS: How long have you been working in the environmental industry and what initially attracted you to it?

Ed: About three years. Thinking about what I wanted to do, I took a general environmental course in college, and it brought me back to my time in the Boy Scouts. I decided then to follow the environmental route.

TRS: How did you end up at TRS?

Ed: I applied for the job and got an interview. The people were nice. The company seemed like a good fit.

TRS: What do you enjoy most about working in the field and working with PerfluorAd specifically?

Ed: It is a good feeling knowing you are helping firefighters. I also enjoy the travel and seeing different places.

TRS: You do get to travel around a ton with the job, what has been your favorite city to work in so far?

Ed: That is a tough one, IтАЩve been all over the place. Probably Los Angeles. It was the most fun and we had a great client.

TRS: The LA project has some of our strongest PFAS reductions.

Ed: Yeah. All my cleanouts have at least 99% concentration reductions. It has been going great.

TRS: You had previously mentioned that you enjoy the satisfaction of helping firefighters. Please expand on that.

Ed: It is such a good feeling. You go in there and know you are making a difference. Working with firefighters is nice too, as they are friendly people.

TRS: Where do you see our cleanout process going?

Ed: We continuously try to improve our systems and processes. The PerfluorAd team gets together after our projects to discuss how we can be more efficient. WeтАЩre excited about taking our knowhow to clean fixed systems.

The post Employee Spotlight: Edward Dolton appeared first on Parsons Corporation.