Houston-based maritime IT network specialist BroCoTec is bringing space age tech expertise to its rapidly expanding team with the appointment of NASA engineer Corey Harris.
Harris, who has spent several years upgrading the most complex and state-of-the-art networks on board the International Space Station and mission control center, Houston, is transferring his knowledge and expertise of leading-edge networks and cybersecurity to the maritime industry.
Nathaniel Kemberling, BroCoTec President and CEO, said Harris is an extremely valuable addition to the company team. “I am keen to source the highest quality talent out there as we grow our business to work with the maritime industry on the incredible benefits 24/7 connectivity is bringing, as well as managing the cyber threats.”
Harris is one of several top-tier tech talent to recently join Houston-based start-up BroCoTec to deliver specialized IT and cybersecurity infrastructure services.
“It was an honor to work at NASA managing and updating networks on the space station,” said Harris.
“Now I and BroCoTec are heavily focused on the maritime sector where the opportunities are huge. Satcomms systems like Starlink and Inmarsat’s NexusWave are redefining maritime by providing 24-hour internet connectivity with all the infrastructure and functionality of a corporate office.”
Mr Harris said BroCoTec is leading the field in building IT infrastructure and networks for the maritime industry.
“Slowly but surely the maritime sector is embracing this technology as vessel operators come to realize what the possibilities are,” said Harris. “When we introduce the ideas and talk through the benefits and applications the light bulbs really go off.”
Mr Harris emphasized the safety, operational, economic and human benefits of highly networked ships with advanced systems and services that are transforming traditional maritime operations.
“Security is being significantly improved with connected, high-definition 4K night-vision cameras that provide 24/7 security around a ship,” he said. “Connectivity can provide 24/7 communication with everyone ashore, including high-definition video links with equipment manufacturers to deal with emergency repairs, and the ability of crews to call family and friends, which improves mental welfare.”
Mr Harris said there is further optimized efficiency with real-time weather routing to reduce journey times and fuel consumption, and the ability of sensors to send continuous engine performance, fuel burn and structural load data back to shore for analysis and predictive maintenance.
Harris, who spent more than a decade developing drone technology at aerospace giant Northrop Grumman before joining NASA, highlighted the need to build a secure network from day one to fully, and safely, leverage all of today’s global capability.
“At BroCoTec we are laser-focused on cybersecurity.,” he said. “There is no cookie-cutter solution as everyone’s needs are different. We sit down with each client to understand their specific needs and then provide unique solutions that are tailored to those needs.”
About BroCoTec
Founded in 2019 and based in Houston, Texas, BroCoTec delivers enterprise-grade IT infrastructure and cybersecurity services to small and medium-sized businesses, with a particular focus on the maritime sector. The company supports clients across U.S. waterways, providing secure network design, segmentation, and 24/7 IT support for vessels, workboats, and remote operational sites.