Preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026

Description

This presentation will provide an overview of Washington State’s preparedness planning for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It will highlight Washington’s tournament footprint, outline key planning assumptions, and examine lessons learned from previous large-scale events. Special emphasis will be placed on cybersecurity considerations, showcasing strategies and best practices to safeguard critical infrastructure, protect information systems, and ensure operational resilience throughout the tournament.

Speakers

Tristan Allen
Infrastructure and Industry Section Manager
Washington Emergency Management Division

I lead the Infrastructure and Industry Section for the Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, where my work focuses on strengthening critical infrastructure resilience, advancing cybersecurity preparedness and response, and enhancing public–private collaboration before, during, and after disasters.

Since joining state service in 2016, I have worked to build strong partnerships and implement strategies that protect Washington’s most essential systems. Prior to my current role, I served in the federal government, focusing on technology research and development to improve national defense capabilities and enhance international humanitarian response operations.

Nicholas J Mesagno II, CISSP
Cyber Resilience Specialist
Washington Emergency Management Division

With over four decades of experience spanning medical imaging in Puerto Rico to start-up companies in Colorado and North Carolina, Nicholas Mesagno is an IT/ OT veteran who’s seen it all, from Apple 1 computers to modern AI driven threat landscapes. As Cyber Resilience Specialist for Emergency Management, his primary mission is to create a grass roots volunteer cyber incident response program (CIRT) to support the critical infrastructure of Washington State. He brings a people-first approach to building trust relationships while helping to secure systems, promoting collaboration and keeping cyber bad actors at bay.

Caroline Byrd
State FIFA World Cup Planner
Washington State Emergency Management Division

As Washington State’s lead planner for the FIFA World Cup 2026, I coordinate statewide preparedness efforts, ensuring seamless alignment across federal, state, tribal, and local partners for both planned events and disaster response. With more than a decade of experience in healthcare, spanning both the civilian and Department of Defense sectors, I bring a unique, mission-focused perspective to operational readiness. My background bridges tactical field operations, healthcare system coordination, and strategic emergency management, enabling me to navigate complex challenges with both precision and adaptability.

I am dedicated to building strong partnerships and driving actionable plans that strengthen community resilience and enhance Washington’s ability to respond effectively when it matters most.