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security profession. Currently ASIS International has around 38,000 members world-wide. The exhibit hall was filled with the most innovative technologies, new products and services in the security market. Attendees were able to engage with companies showcasing technology that will shape the security industry going forward. There was a large presence of video manufactures, displaying new thermal security technology capabilities, security management systems and access control systems. While roaming the exhibit room floor, attendees were able sit in on a series of poster sessions to learn about security research, practice and innovative applications. More than 35 subject matter experts presented a wide range of topics from across the security spectrum. Throughout the week, there were various informative education sessions one could attend, which included Security Master Planning. This session explored how a master plan should work in conjunction with a corporation’s objectives and mission. There were also sessions on how to gain business value from risk, threat, and vulnerability assessments which gave an informative opinion on how to optimise the intelligence and information gained from assessments undertaken. There were also discussions about the evolving threat environment in the Middle East and the various operational challenges faced in that region. On Monday evening a network event was conducted in the immediate area outside the convention centre and well attended by many hundreds of delegates. The area was transformed for the President’s Reception into a festival of lights and music and lined with over 20 food trucks to sample various delicacies. Delegates moved between the food vans and bars until late in the evening whilst being entertained with live music provided by local groups. A key presentation during the event was provided by Raymond W. Kelly, former Commissioner of the New York Police Department. Commissioner Kelly explained the efforts taken to rebuild the safety and security of New York after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, his resourcing requirements and re-building culture and resilience through his organisation. He also explained the challenges faced by the City generally and its extensive community. Kelly oversaw the creation of a specialist counterterrorism unit with the NYPD. This unit not only trains personnel on how to respond in the event of an attack, but also has operatives around the globe that gathers intelligence about plots targeting the City. On Wednesday a keynote address was provided by General Michael Hayden, the former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency and a former Director of the National Security Agency. General Hayden spoke of the growing dangers of terrorism and cyber-attacks. Within the event there were a number of presentations where outstanding performance, dedication and achievements were recognised. A number of members received awards including the Victoria Australia Chapter that received an award for best website. Three members of the Chapter Dr Tony Zalewski (Chair), Rachaell Saunders (Secretary) and myself were present at the event and accepted the Award. On Wednesday evening the ASIS Foundation provided a festive evening at The House of Blues in Downtown Disney.
This function also allowed for the making of more contacts and catching up with acquaintances and friends. Again, a late but enjoyable evening took delegates on a blues journey with live local entertainers. Thursday morning started the day with Galina Antova, Co-Founder of Team8 Industrial Security addressing delegates with a keynote address “Security Critical Infrastructure: Closing the Gaps.” This session highlighted the issues of integration between information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) and the challenges that come with that convergence. This session was followed by a panel of senior security executives from the entertainment and high-tech sectors and their perspectives about “Lessons Learned from the Sony Hack.” Prior to lunch Zak Ebrahim gave an inside look into his new book “The Terrorist’s Son.” Zak told about his long journey to comprehend his past as the son of a declared jihadist who was responsible for the 1993 terror attack on the World Trade Centre. The conclusion to the 61st Annual Seminar and Exhibits involved a presentation by General James Mattis, former Commander of the United States Joint Forces Command. General Mattis gave an insight about his experiences and the lessons learned in leading troops within the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. His presentation was well received and highlighted the impact of practical experience as part of life-long learning. Overall, attending ASIS 2015 was a great experience. I was able to learn a lot from the education sessions and keynote speakers as well as making valuable connections in the security industry. I recommend to anyone who is wishing to advance their career in security to become a member of ASIS International and attend the Annual Seminar and Exhibits.
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