The Cyberstar Certificate Program was launched in May by the Texas DIR to recognize public and private organizations in the state that voluntarily meet specific criteria for cybersecurity best practices.

The designation is the latest milestone in the Port of Corpus Christi’s ongoing efforts to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure.

“We remain committed to our CyberSecurity program at the Port of Corpus Christi. Our cyber team consistently strives to reach new milestones and protect against an ever-changing threat landscape,” said Brooks Lobingier II, Director of Information Technology for the Port of Corpus Christi.

“By achieving these milestones, we highlight our commitment to stakeholders, as well as our dedication and leadership to the protection of critical U.S. infrastructure.”

An organization must meet several criteria to obtain a Texas Cyberstar Certificate, including: adopt a cybersecurity risk management program; provide appropriate training and information for employees; maintain consistency with National Institute of Standards and Technology standards for cybersecurity; incorporate public service announcements to encourage cybersecurity awareness; and coordinate with local and state governmental entities.

“In today’s digital age, ensuring the strength of our cybersecurity framework is crucial not only to the safety and success of the Port of Corpus Christi, but to the customers who rely on us to facilitate navigable maritime commerce,” said Sean Strawbridge, Chief Executive Officer for the Port of Corpus Christi.

“Receiving this Texas Cyberstar certification is testament of our commitment to this vital piece of our organization’s digital infrastructure.”

About Port Corpus Christi

As a leader in U.S. energy export ports and a major economic engine of Texas and the nation, Port Corpus Christi is the largest port in the United States in total revenue tonnage.

Strategically located on the western Gulf of Mexico with a 36-mile, soon to be 54-foot (MLLW) deep channel, Port Corpus Christi is a major gateway to international and domestic maritime commerce.

The Port has excellent railroad and highway network connectivity via three North American Class-1 railroads and two major interstate highways. With an outstanding staff overseen by its seven-member commission, Port Corpus Christi is “Moving America’s Energy.”

Texas Government Code Section 2054.5181 Cyberstar Program; Certificate of Approval requires the state cybersecurity coordinator to establish a Cyberstar certificate program to recognize public and private entities in Texas that implement the best practices for cybersecurity.

The sections that follow explain the requirements for receiving a Texas Cyberstar Certificate, the process for requesting a certificate, and a listing of awarded certificates

Cyberstar Certificate Requirements

In alignment with Government Code section 2054.5181, the state cybersecurity coordinator, in consultation with the Texas Cybersecurity Council, selected the following five criteria for entities seeking to obtain a Texas Cyberstar Certificate. An entity must:

Adopt a cybersecurity risk management program;
Provide appropriate training and information for employees;

Maintain consistency with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for cybersecurity;

Incorporate public service announcements to encourage cybersecurity awareness; and
Coordinate with local and state governmental entities.

There are 12 subcriteria for entities to be awarded a Texas Cyberstar Certificate. Refer to the Texas Cyberstar Certificate Program Manual for details.