ASIS International - Experts & Thought Leaders

Security LeadHER, the premier event dedicated to advancing women in the global security industry, welcomed 500 security leaders to the Hilton Minneapolis on June 15–16, 2026, for two days of connection, learning and community impact. Presented by ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA), this year’s gathering marked a roughly 10% increase in registrations over 2025—a clear signal of the event’s growing momentum and the expanding community it serves. Inclusive security community From the Midwest to the Middle East, attendees travelled from 40 U.S. states and 11 nations to be part of the experience with a shared commitment to advancing, connecting and empowering women across the profession. “The conversations, mentorship, sponsorship and meaningful connections fostered this week are not only shaping individual careers—they are helping shape the future of the security profession,” said Rachael Paskvan, chair of the ASIS Women in Security community and head of protective services at Ecolab. “We are proud to partner with SIA to create a space where leaders, allies and emerging professionals can learn from one another, share experiences and drive meaningful change across our industry. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive security community where everyone has the opportunity to grow, lead and succeed.” Advanced analytics and automation “Security LeadHER 2026 demonstrates the incredible momentum behind the advancement of women in the security industry. What makes this event so powerful is that it goes beyond inspiration: it creates meaningful connections, actionable insights and opportunities that continue long after the event ends,” said Candice Aragon, chair of the SIA Women in Security Forum and chief experience officer at PSA. “We are proud to see this community growing and grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year’s conference our most impactful yet.” Attendees enjoyed exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at two of Minnesota’s most iconic destinations. At the Target Corporate Command Center—the 24/7 hub that monitors business, safety and security issues across nearly 2,000 stores and more than 60 supply chain facilities—attendees toured the center and saw a live demonstration of Target’s advanced analytics and automation. Next-generation technology At the Mall of America Security Operations and the Axis Experience Center, they went inside the day-to-day management of the largest mall in America, learning how the team keeps more than 100,000 daily patrons safe and the next-generation technology that makes it possible. Together, the tours offered a rare, insider look at security operations at scale. The result is an event that brings women leaders in the security profession together with allies who champion the mission—creating space to advance, connect and empower women in the industry, present and future. Powerful keynote addresses The program was anchored by two powerful keynote addresses. Organisational psychologist, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill professor and status-and-negotiation expert Alison Fragale, Ph.D., opened the conference with “Likeable Badass: The Science of Winning the Status Game,” unpacking why women are so often forced to choose between being seen as competent and being seen as likeable and how a science-based understanding of status can change that dynamic. On Day 2, author and workplace equity expert Minda Harts delivered “Your Voice Is Your Value,” blending her self-advocacy strategies with her “Seven Trust Languages” framework to help attendees strengthen self-trust and communicate their worth with confidence, even amid difficult power dynamics. Difficult power dynamics The conference closed with a leadership panel, “The Power of Sponsorship and Allyship,” in which women security leaders shared candid career stories about the advocates who opened doors, amplified their voices, and helped break down barriers. Karen Frank, managing director and head of firm safety and security services at KPMG, moderated the discussion featuring panelists Kimberly Fearno, regional vice president at Convergint; Emy Johnson, vice president and chief security officer at Allina Health; Alaina Meyer, president of scDataCom; and Dawanna S. Witt, sheriff of Hennepin County, Minnesota. Global security career Beyond the keynotes, attendees chose from a unique and robust slate of breakouts, roundtables and sessions spanning the challenges and opportunities facing women in security today. Topics ranged from executive presence, confident communication and mastering hard conversations to navigating nonlinear career paths, personal branding and strategic networking for a global security career. Sessions also tackled the field’s most pressing issues and challenges, including leading across generations in the age of artificial intelligence, recognising bias in data-driven decision making, the role of psychological safety in high-performing security teams, women in executive protection and building the next-generation pipeline of women leaders. The breadth reflected Security LeadHER’s commitment to meeting professionals wherever they are on their leadership journey, from entry and mid-level roles to the C-suite. Security LeadHER 2026 was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors across every tier: Premier Sponsors: Amazon Worldwide Operations Security, Apple and HID Executive Sponsors: Allegion, Axis Communications, Boon Edam, Circadian Risk, M.C. Dean, Salto, Securitas, Securitas Technology and Wesco Partner Sponsors: Genetec, GSA, Hanwha Vision, Inter-Con Security, Johnson Controls, Resolver, Sage Integration, Verkada and ZBeta Their partnership powers not only an exceptional attendee experience, but also the community investment that defines what Security LeadHER stands for. More resilient communities Security LeadHER is more than a conference—it’s a way the security industry contributes to building stronger, more resilient communities. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Axis Communications, Security LeadHER is proud to go beyond the event itself and invest directly in the cities that welcome it. This year, that city is Minneapolis. By partnering with women-owned businesses already making a difference in their local communities, Security LeadHER puts its values of advancing, connecting and empowering women into action. The event is proud to stand alongside Tameka Jones, founder and CEO of Lip Esteem, in her mission of empowering women and in recognition of her local impact. This year’s conference also hosted a clothing drive benefiting Dress for Success Twin Cities, an organisation supporting individuals ages 18+ with career advancement services including coaching, classes and workplace attire. Save the date for next year’s Security LeadHER event, taking place June 14–15, 2027, in Austin, Texas.

ASIS International, the world’s largest association for security management professionals, has announced its programming lineup for Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2026 with in-person and digital experiences taking place 14 – 16 September at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA, and via the online GSX event platform. “It has been an honour and a joy to chair the GSX 2026 Education Selection Committee and work alongside a dedicated group of security professionals,” said Jamie Ridenhour, CPP, Chair, GSX 2026 Proposal Selection Committee. Forward-looking education “Our volunteers brought diverse perspectives and real-world experience to a rigorous review process, with a shared focus on delivering relevant, practical, and forward-looking education. We believe the result is a strong program that reflects today’s security challenges and creates meaningful value for the global security community.” Encompassing 200+ sessions addressing key security challenges and emerging trends, the newly announced GSX session lineup includes in-depth looks at timely issues within the following nine areas of focus: Intelligence, Organisational Resilience, Information Security, Site Security, Supply Chain Security, Personnel Security, Investigations, Executive Protection, and Governance. Increasingly complex landscape “GSX is where transformation in our profession truly comes to life,” said Eddie Sorrells CPP, PSP, PCI, 2026 President of ASIS International. “It brings together bold ideas, diverse voices, and forward-thinking education that challenges how we see risk, leadership, and the future of security. Through meaningful collaboration and continuous learning, GSX empowers professionals to not only adapt to change, but to lead it, shaping what’s next for our industry with confidence, purpose, and vision.” This year’s keynotes include: Peter Diamandis, MD, a visionary entrepreneur and futurist who has spent his career pushing the boundaries of what's possible through exponential technologies and moonshot thinking. In his GSX keynote, Diamandis will explore how exponential thinking and emerging technologies are reshaping security challenges and creating new possibilities for protection, resilience, and organisational transformation. General Session Sponsored by Allied Universal. Cassie Kozyrkov, one of the most influential voices in AI and data science, and Google’s former Chief Decision Scientist. In her GSX keynote, she will provide security leaders with practical frameworks for leveraging AI and data-driven decision-making to enhance threat detection, risk assessment, and organisational resilience in an increasingly complex landscape. Travis Mills, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and quadruple amputee. In his GSX keynote, Mills will share powerful lessons on resilience, adaptability, and leading in the face of extreme adversity—insights that resonate deeply with security professionals who face high-stakes decisions and complex crises. General Session Sponsored by Protos Security. Dynamic learning experience These three thought leaders will provide the backdrop to a dynamic learning experience. This year's GSX raises the bar for professional development with an expanded educational experience that meets attendees where they are including, on the exhibit floor. Four dedicated exhibit floor learning stages — Career HQ, X Stage, Threat Intelligence Zone, and School Security Zone — will bring expert-led programming into the heart of the action, blurring the line between discovery and education in a format uniquely designed for the GSX experience. Full session details are available in the event programming. For those ready to roll up their sleeves, GSX 2026 introduces three Interactive Workshops built for deep, real-time engagement: Monday: Learning as a Strategic Advantage: Successfully Training Your Organisation's Security Teams and Executives Tuesday: Hands-On LLM Security Lab: Building Threat Intelligence and Malware Analysis Workflows Tuesday: From Surveys to Strategy: Accelerating Risk and Resilience Through Value Stream Mapping AI-powered captions These workshops are designed for practitioners who want more than a presentation — they want to leave with tools they can use immediately. Interactive Workshop registration is free, but spaces are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Please don't wait until you arrive in Atlanta to secure the spot. Those registering for these workshops can do so when registering online. All digital education sessions will be identified. Additionally, select education sessions will feature real-time translation via Wordly, allowing attendees to participate in their preferred language. No special equipment is needed—participants simply bring their device and headphones to access live AI-powered captions and translations. Pre-conference programming In addition to the conference’s primary programming, GSX 2026 will feature multiple pre-conference programming on Saturday and Sunday (12 -13 September) including APP Certification Review, CPP Certification Review, PSP Certification Review, Facility Security Design Workshop, ESRM Workshop, Implementing the ANSI/ASIS School Security Standard Workshop and Crime Prevention Workshop. The pre-conference programming delivers expert-led, one- or two-day sessions where you’ll build skills, earn CPEs, and solve today’s security management challenges.   All-Access Pass and Digital registrants can earn up to 22 CPEs toward recertification — whether participating in-person in Atlanta or online. On 16 September, GSX 2026 turns its attention to those who serve. Military & Law Enforcement Appreciation Day — A Global Salute to Service — offers all active duty and retired military, law enforcement, and first responders a complimentary One-Day Pass as a gesture of gratitude from a profession that understands, perhaps better than most, the sacrifice that public safety requires.

Building on the success of Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2025, which welcomed participants from 95 countries, GSX 2026 is set to deliver another exceptional lineup of thought leadership and innovation. Taking place 14-16 September at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, the event will feature 200+ education sessions, 500+ exhibitors, and three transformational keynote speakers who will challenge security professionals to think differently about leadership, technology, and resilience in an evolving threat landscape. Evolving threat landscape "Our members face complex, high stakes challenges every day, and they deserve a stage that matches that reality,” stated Eddie Sorrells, CPP, PSP, PCI, 2026 President, ASIS International. “This year's keynote speakers, a pioneer in exponential technology, a leader in AI and decision science, and a true embodiment of resilience, were chosen to do exactly that. To challenge, inspire, and equip our global community for what lies ahead." Rapid technological change Monday, 14 September - Peter Diamandis, MD | Founder and Executive Chairman, XPRIZE Foundation and Executive Founder and Director, Singularity University. Peter Diamandis is a visionary entrepreneur and futurist who has spent his career pushing the boundaries of what's possible through exponential technologies and moonshot thinking. As founder of the XPRIZE Foundation and co-founder of Singularity University, Diamandis has inspired global innovation in fields ranging from space exploration to healthcare. A New York Times bestselling author of four books, Diamandis helps leaders understand how rapid technological change creates both disruption and opportunity. In his GSX keynote, Diamandis will explore how exponential thinking and emerging technologies are reshaping security challenges and creating new possibilities for protection, resilience, and organisational transformation. Sponsored by Allied Universal. Avoiding common pitfalls Tuesday, 15 September - Cassie Kozyrkov | CEO, Kozyr; Fmr. Chief Decision Scientist, Google. Cassie Kozyrkov is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in making AI and data science accessible, practical, and strategically valuable. As Google's former Chief Decision Scientist, she has helped organisations around the world apply AI and machine learning to real-world challenges while avoiding common pitfalls. Known for her ability to demystify complex technical concepts, Kozyrkov bridges the gap between technical possibility and business reality. In her GSX keynote, she will provide security leaders with practical frameworks for leveraging AI and data-driven decision-making to enhance threat detection, risk assessment, and organisational resilience in an increasingly complex landscape. High-stakes decisions Wednesday, 16 September - Travis Mills | Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and Quadruple Amputee. Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills is one of only five quadruple amputees to survive injuries sustained from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. After being wounded by an IED (improvised explosive device) in Afghanistan in 2012, Mills embarked on a journey of recovery that exemplifies extraordinary resilience, determination, and leadership. He founded the Travis Mills Foundation, which provides critical support to injured veterans and their families, and has become a sought-after speaker on overcoming adversity, mental toughness, and never giving up. In his GSX keynote, Mills will share powerful lessons on resilience, adaptability, and leading in the face of extreme adversity—insights that resonate deeply with security professionals who face high-stakes decisions and complex crises.

There was high-level energy at GSX 2025, befitting an industry undergoing massive change. Artificial intelligence (AI) was everywhere, but not so much in the booth signage. Rather, AI has made its way beyond marketing claims and solidly into the core of the products themselves. There were hundreds of examples of how AI is changing how security systems operate, all for the better. Clearly on display at GSX 2025 was an industry in the midst of metamorphosis.  Deep integration of AI My conversations with companies across the security ecosystem revealed an industry heavily focused on leveraging advanced technologies like AI and the cloud to address increasingly complex global and localised threats. Several key themes emerged at the Global Security Exchange (GSX), sponsored by ASIS International, held Sept. 29–Oct. 1 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Centre in New Orleans, La. Themes I heard repeated throughout the show floor included deep integration of AI, the ongoing shift toward cloud-based and hybrid architectures, and a sharp focus on modernising security systems to meet current challenges. AI and intelligent automation transform security The use of GenAI is moving beyond simple search functions into real-time decision support Companies are integrating AI and intelligent technologies to enhance analytics, streamline incident response, and improve internal efficiency. The use of Generative AI (GenAI) is moving beyond simple search functions into real-time decision support. For example, Bosch Video Systems introduced a "second tier" to its video analytics capabilities by combining highly sensitive edge detection with GenAI models in the cloud. For example, in visual gun detection, edge analytics might flag a potential gun (yellow), but the cloud-based GenAI then quickly reviews and confirms the threat (red), helping to filter out false alarms. Bosch is also using GenAI for more open-ended searches, such as a "Where's Waldo" application demonstrated at their booth. GenAI-powered system  Eagle Eye Networks says they are focused on helping integrators "organise the AI chaos” through their cloud-based video platform. Their precision person and vehicle detection capabilities work across multiple cameras. Motorola Solutions introduced Inform, an AI-assisted incident response solution designed to bring clarity to the "noise" and help security teams respond to complex threats. They also offer Avigilon Visual Alerts, an on-prem GenAI-powered system that expands the natural language interface. AI internally to improve processes The Body Workforce Mini protects frontline workers and businesses "amid rising violence and theft." The Axon Body Workforce Mini, a small “computer with a lens” for non-police applications, is AI-capable and can perform real-time translations, automated report writing, and summarisation, and can even act as a personal assistant by incorporating company policies. All those functions are built into a lightweight body-worn camera designed to safeguard frontline workers in retail and healthcare verticals. The Body Workforce Mini protects frontline workers and businesses "amid rising violence and theft." Beyond products, integration company Everon is using AI internally to improve processes, such as handling commoditised tasks, which they expect will result in better customer satisfaction. Everon wants to be known as a premier service provider and will be introducing new services in the video realm. AI-powered search and continuous system upgrades Genetec prefers the term Intelligent Automation (IA), instead of AI, to describe its empathetic interface, which can "know" what additional information a security professional needs when they click on an image, for example. Genetec says the advantages of the cloud include AI-powered search and continuous system upgrades. Their Security Centre SaaS has had a fast and successful launch. It enables cloud-based systems with local storage.  Genetec also highlighted the Cloudlink 210, a cloud-managed appliance designed to unify physical security operations that can be simply plugged in without involving IT staff. They call it a “headless appliance.” Cloud migration and the push for hybrid systems Hanwha debuted OnCAFE (Cloud Access for Everyone), a new cloud-based access control product The industry continues its strategic march toward the cloud, often through hybrid applications that blend on-prem strength with cloud flexibility. Acre's access control is described as "cloud-first technology," and they continue to focus on cloud solutions, incorporating AI. To help customers transition, they offer the "Bridge," a migration tool that allows systems to communicate throughout the move. At the same time, they are continuing to develop and enhance their core on-prem products – DNA Fusion and AccessIt!. Adding access control to supplement their video product line, Hanwha debuted OnCAFE (Cloud Access for Everyone), a new cloud-based access control product. The goal is to provide “access control that is easy;” It works alongside their OnCloud direct-to-cloud VMS as a Service platform. Future of video management The future of video management is increasingly hybrid. Milestone recently completed a three-year process of updating XProtect and building for the future of hybrid applications. At GSX, they showcased how their XProtect Evidence Manager seeks to "democratise evidence management" by collecting video, cell phone data, notes, and other metadata related to a case for easy sharing and prosecution. Also, Milestone’s “app centre” enables additional features to enhance XProtect without involving integration.  Milestone is also focusing on "Metadata Ingest," which collects and aggregates data from various manufacturers (including Genetec, Motorola, and Exacq) for use by AI. Strategic modernisation and open integration Convergint and Genetec collaborated on a "2026 Technology Modernisation Outlook" white paper A key theme for the future is the shift toward open systems and strategic modernisation, enabling security professionals to better utilise new technology. Convergint and Genetec collaborated on a "2026 Technology Modernisation Outlook" white paper, arguing that dealers and end-users need to think more strategically when buying technology. They predict that "2026 will be the year of modernisation," with tangible results including unified intelligence, flexible deployment, and lower total cost of ownership. The call for open standards and architecture was also strong. What AI needs from open systems Johnson Controls noted that cloud, AI, and open standards are its three big focus areas. Their C-CURE IQ 3.10 is gaining adoption as it unifies access and video. OpenEye is seeking to address the "AI disruption anxiety" in the industry, focusing on what AI needs from open systems. The emphasis is on the value of a Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard and framework to enable AI systems to integrate and share data with external tools and sources. Addressing shifting global and local threats Allied Universal's "World Security Report 2025" highlights a risen focus on executive protection Companies unveiled solutions targeted at new security concerns, particularly the rising threat of violence, theft, and misinformation. Allied Universal's "World Security Report 2025" highlights an increased focus on executive protection and cites the rise of misinformation and disinformation as the number two threat. They noted that macro trends around instability and the political and social environment are driving security threats globally. To combat physical threats, Shooter Detection Systems introduced a new outdoor sensor, which is now generally available after a favourable feedback period that included an apprehension in one municipality. The company notes the unique challenge of developing technology for a "non-cooperative" threat like a person with a gun, in contrast to most security technologies that are "cooperative" and depend on user compliance. Implementation of integrated security Flock Safety is expanding its focus beyond licence plate readers into solutions for retail, with a new initiative to automate and streamline investigative processes, which are often manual. The company also showcased "drones as automated security guards," which can be deployed within 90 seconds to provide "eyes" on a site and enhance safety. The system works on its own network and is firewalled away from the city system A tour of the City of New Orleans' Real Time Crime Centre (RTCC), hosted by Axis Communications, demonstrated a mature implementation of integrated security. The RTCC uses Axis cameras, Genetec VMS, and is tied to a Motorola Solutions Command Centre to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, operating independently of the police department. They measure success in terms of valuable hours saved in an investigation or even when an event is happening. The system works on its own network and is firewalled away from the city system. Rapidly changing industry on display The GSX 2025 highlights an industry that is moving toward more intelligent and integrated solutions. The investment in AI is shifting security from reactive monitoring to proactive, automated assistance. Throughout the show floor, the continued embrace of hybrid cloud architectures, coupled with an emphasis on open standards and modernisation roadmaps, suggests a security ecosystem built for agility and future growth.  These trends, and the GSX show itself, collectively underscore the industry's commitment to delivering scalable, next-generation solutions for a changing threat landscape.

As the world’s security landscape grows ever more complex, the need for a dynamic, comprehensive, and globally minded gathering of thought pioneers and practitioners has never been more pronounced. Enter the Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2025, hosted by ASIS International, a signature event representing seven decades of commitment to advancing the security profession. This year marks a historic milestone, as GSX and ASIS International both celebrate 70 years of shaping the future of security, with New Orleans serving as the perfect host city for this anniversary celebration; making the 2025 conference not only a convergence of expertise but a tribute to the security profession’s evolution and resilience.  Setting the stage: A global gathering with a rich legacy GSX has established itself as a premier international forum, bringing together security professionals Since its inception, GSX has established itself as a premier international forum, bringing together security professionals from nearly 100 countries across the globe. This diversity is both a testament to the universal importance of security and a reflection of GSX’s core objective—unifying security and business professionals under a shared mission: to elevate the industry through education, collaboration, and innovation.  GSX’s member-driven approach GSX’s programming is carefully curated each year through a rigorous speaker proposal submission process by security professionals for security professionals. ASIS International consults extensively with its global membership and prior attendees to assess shifting educational needs and emerging industry priorities. This member-driven approach ensures that GSX continually evolves, remaining attuned to the rapidly changing security environment and the real-world concerns of professionals in every corner of the globe. Programming highlights: Education at the core The agenda features more than 200 sessions, giving a masterclass in the most pressing and transformative topics The heart of GSX 2025 lies in its robust educational offerings. This year, the agenda features more than 200 sessions, presenting a masterclass in the most pressing and transformative topics facing the security sector today.  Three standout speakers Ian Bremmer, Sol Rashidi, and General Paul Nakasone - luminaries in geopolitics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity respectively—will headline the event, offering insights that bridge current realities with future opportunities. These keynote presentations promise to set the tone for an event dedicated to thought leadership and actionable intelligence. GSX 2025’s challenges and emerging trends GSX 2025’s educational framework is structured around nine distinct track themes. Each track addresses a critical area of security management, capturing both enduring challenges and emerging trends: Crime: Delving into the latest strategies for preventing, detecting, and responding to criminal activity in a world where threats are increasingly complex and transnational. Digital Transformation: Exploring the integration of cutting-edge technologies into traditional security operations, including automation, analytics, and the digitalisation of security infrastructure. Information Security/Digital Risk: Addressing the ever-expanding need to protect data, intellectual property, and privacy against cyber threats and breaches. Law/Ethics: Focusing on the legal and ethical dilemmas that security professionals navigate, from compliance to responsible innovation. Managing Organisations: Providing strategies for effective leadership, organisational change, and operational excellence within security teams and entities. National Security: Examining the intersection of corporate, governmental, and civic security with a global lens on terrorism, conflict, and cross-border risks. Physical/Operational Security: Reinforcing the foundations of asset protection, site security, and crisis response through practical case studies and new methodologies. Professional Development: Empowering attendees to advance their careers through skills training, certifications, and leadership development. Risk Management: Mapping techniques to assess, mitigate, and manage risks in a broad array of operational contexts. Together, these tracks create a comprehensive curriculum spanning the complete landscape of contemporary security—from foundational principles to emerging innovations, from physical infrastructure to digital domains, all viewed through an authentically international lens. Innovation in action: Beyond the classroom One of the hallmarks of GSX 2025 is its commitment to making education not just informative, but immersive and accessible. Attendees will find a wealth of learning opportunities woven directly into the Exhibit Hall itself. No longer confined to traditional classrooms, education pulses throughout the venue, with exhibitors invited to showcase their latest insights and real-world solutions to the industry’s most urgent trends. With approximately 500 exhibitors represented, this expansion transforms the Exhibit Hall into a vibrant nexus of exchange, discovery, and hands-on engagement. GSX’s broader ethos No special gear needed, just bring your device and headphones to access live AI-powered captions To further enhance inclusivity and participation, GSX 2025 is pioneering the use of real-time translations through Wordly, for 35 select sessions over the course of this three-day event. This feature ensures that language barriers do not hinder the sharing of ideas, enabling attendees from around the world to fully engage with content and collaborate across borders. This digital transformation is emblematic of GSX’s broader ethos: embracing innovation and experimentation to create greater access to professional development tools within the security profession. No special gear needed, just bring your device and headphones to access live AI-powered captions and translations. Specialised zones and rapid learning GSX 2025's Exhibit Hall transforms into a vibrant ecosystem of discovery, where dedicated learning stages create immersive worlds of specialised knowledge. Journey through the School Security Zone to unlock cutting-edge solutions protecting our educational communities; experience the Organisational Resilience Zone where tomorrow's adaptive strategies come to life; and energise at the X Stage, where security pioneers and integrators accelerate their expertise through lightning-fast, game-changing insights that drive real-world impact. Signature events and unique experiences No GSX experience would be complete without opportunities to connect, celebrate, and unwind No GSX experience would be complete without opportunities to connect, celebrate, and unwind. This year, “ASIS Celebrates!” will take place at the historic National WWII Museum, providing a unique backdrop for networking, reflection, and community building. Beyond formal programming, GSX 2025 pays attention to the “little touches” that make a big difference—such as the Security SyncUP Lounge, where attendees can relax, recharge, and reconnect in a welcoming setting that fosters meaningful exchanges and new friendships. The future of security, united GSX 2025 stands as a testament to seventy years of progress, learning, and community in the global security profession. As participants converge from every corner of the world, the event offers not just a forum for knowledge-sharing, but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and progress. With an agenda shaped by its members, a program rich in content and diversity, and a spirit of experimentation and inclusion, GSX 2025 is poised to once again set the standard for what it means to protect, connect, and inspire in a rapidly changing world.

March is Women in Security Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and promoting the contributions of women in the security field—particularly in cybersecurity. This observance aligns with Women’s History Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work still needed to advance gender equity in security. Evolving role of women in security The security industry has witnessed a steady increase in women's participation. According to ISC2 Research in its “Women’s Role in Filling the Workforce Gap” report, women make up an estimated 20 to 25 percent of the security industry. Promisingly, younger generations are entering the profession at higher rates, with 26 percent of working professionals under 30 identifying as women. The security industry has witnessed a steady increase in women's participation The research tells us that women are thriving in a variety of roles, from engineering and system administration to sales, marketing, and project leadership. Key factors driving this transformation include mentorship programs, male allies advocating for gender equality, and cultural shifts recognising the unique perspectives and strengths women bring to security challenges. These efforts are fostering more inclusive environments and ultimately strengthening the industry. The value of diverse perspectives in security Security is not a one-size-fits-all industry—each organisation and facility has unique needs that require varied perspectives. Greater representation of women has introduced fresh approaches to problem-solving, fostering collaboration and driving innovation. By integrating diverse viewpoints, security professionals can create more effective solutions that better address end-user needs. Industry support for women’s professional growth SIA's WISF offers subcommittees such as NavigateHER, SupportHER, and UpLiftHER Organisations like the Security Industry Association (SIA) and ASIS International have established networking platforms and initiatives to support women in security. Events such as the Security LeadHER Conference provide valuable professional development and networking opportunities. Companies are also investing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) initiatives, hands-on training, and recruitment programs to attract more women into the field. Additionally, SIA's Women in Security Forum (WISF) offers subcommittees such as NavigateHER, SupportHER, and UpLiftHER, which provide pathways for engagement and growth. Challenges women in security face Despite progress, challenges remain. Many women still feel it necessary to repeatedly prove their expertise, take on additional informal responsibilities, or carefully navigate workplace dynamics. Imposter syndrome can be another hurdle, even for accomplished professionals. However, women in security are addressing these challenges by setting boundaries, advocating for themselves, and supporting one another through mentorship. By excelling in leadership and technical roles, women are reshaping outdated perceptions and advocating for more inclusive workplace policies. Steps industry pioneers can take To further support women in security, industry pioneers could: Provide targeted professional development and career advancement opportunities. Foster strong, supportive communities that recognise and mentor women. Implement structured mentorship programs that connect experienced professionals with newcomers. Promote workplace flexibility to help employees balance personal and career commitments. Actively challenge biases and advocate for meaningful change within organisations. Advice for women entering the security field Here are key pieces of advice for women considering a career in security: Own Your Expertise – Have confidence in your knowledge and skills. Seek Out Mentors & Allies – Connect with supportive professionals who can guide your career. Build a Strong Network – Join organisations like ASIS Women in Security, SIA Women in Security Forum, or Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), and attend industry events to expand your connections. Speak Up & Take Space – Confidently share your ideas and challenge outdated norms. Develop Resilience & Advocate for Yourself – Push past biases, demand the respect you deserve, and negotiate for fair salaries and promotions. Keep Learning & Stay Ahead – Continually build your expertise to stay competitive in the evolving security industry. The future of women in security As the security industry evolves with technological advancements and global changes, opportunities for women will continue to expand. Women are not just participating in the industry’s growth—they are shaping its future. With growing mentorship programs, male allies advocating for gender equality, and ongoing cultural shifts, the focus is no longer just on breaking barriers but on building bridges to new opportunities.