Four Top Workforce Development Sessions at ISC East 2024

SIA Education at ISC East logo on top of workforce concept image

ISC East 2024 is coming up Nov. 19-21 in New York City, and the Security Industry Association (SIA) and ISC East recently revealed full conference details for the SIA Education at ISC East program, including keynote presentations from top luminaries and over 70 sessions from top industry expert speakers on the most current business trends, technologies and industry developments.

Among the robust lineup of conference sessions are several dynamic presentations on key topics in workforce development. At ISC East, you’ll discover expert insights on hiring and retaining young talent, combating labor shortages and more. Here are four sessions you won’t want to miss; make sure to add them to your ISC East calendar!

All Times EST

Impacting Workforce Development in the Security Industry

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

In the evolving landscape of skilled trades, the security industry faces unique challenges in hiring and retaining talent. This session will provide an overview of the current state of the skilled trades workforce, highlighting specific obstacles that the security sector encounters. Experts will discuss the critical issues impacting workforce development, including the shortage of skilled professionals and the high turnover rates, and explore the proactive measures the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is implementing to address these challenges, such as targeted outreach programs, partnerships with educational institutions and innovative recruitment strategies.

“The most critical challenge facing the security industry is a shortage of skilled professionals. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to invest in workforce development. This session will dive into the challenges we face and showcase how FAST is taking proactive steps—through targeted outreach, training development and partnerships with schools—to build a stronger, more resilient talent pipeline. By working together through FAST, we can build the workforce of tomorrow, today.”

– Aiden O’Brien, executive director, FAST

Presenter:

  • Aiden O’Brien, executive director, FAST

Hiring and Retaining Young Talent Within the Security Industry

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 3:15-4:00 p.m.

This session will provide an overview of the current state of hiring within the security industry where we’ll explain challenges, opportunities, the importance of attracting younger talent, misconceptions and their potential and unique strengths. You’ll learn about effective hiring strategies you can use to attract young professionals. We will discuss strategies for retaining young talent, as well as case studies and success stories.

“For the first time in many years, we have four generations in the workplace – this can be a challenge but is also a huge asset. I’m looking forward to discussing how we can attract and retain young professionals by tapping into the skills and institutional knowledge from all four generations.”

– Elaine Palome, head of human resources, Americas, Axis Communications

Speakers:

  • Miranda Gaines, vice president, talent and culture, Advanced Data Risk Management (ADRM)
  • Spencer Hall, business sales specialist, ADRM
  • Alejandra Palacios, data scientist, ADRM
  • Elaine Palome, head of human resources, Americas, Axis Communications

Combating Labor Shortages in Physical Security: Attraction, Selection and Engagement

Thursday, Nov. 21, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

Join our panel discussion to explore strategies for addressing labor shortages in the physical security sector. Our experts will share insights on attracting, selecting and engaging top talent to bolster organizational security. Gain valuable perspectives on current labor market trends, innovative recruitment techniques, effective onboarding practices and strategies for retaining skilled personnel. This session offers practical tools and knowledge to optimize workforce planning and management in the dynamic security industry landscape.

Speakers:

  • Brooke Erickson, director, learning and development, PSA Network
  • Victoria Hayes, vice president, People Partnering
  • Aiden O’Brien, executive director, Foundation for Advancing Security Talent
  • Chris Staniforth, president, ALC Consulting

How to Develop and Enhance Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Insights From Women in Security

Thursday, Nov. 21, 11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

In an industry where women are underrepresented, finding a support system of fellow females can pose challenges. This panel will discuss the importance for women in the security field to support and empower one another by actively engaging in recruiting, mentoring, training and leadership roles. Join this session to hear about shared experiences and learn how we all can contribute to making a difference.

“Delve into best practices from female security leaders at Allegion, dormakaba and HID Global. Learn how these organizations are successfully fostering female empowerment, leadership opportunities and managing their ERGs in the security industry. Join us to garner valuable insights and tangible lessons to deploy in your organizations.”

– Beth Anderson, senior channel marketing manager, Allegion

Speakers:

  • Beth Anderson, senior channel marketing manager, Allegion
  • Yazmina Rawji, relationship manager and Women’s Network chair, dormakaba
  • Danielle Unger, vertical business development manager, secure issuance, HID Global

SIA thanks the distinguished members of the SIA Education at ISC Advisory Board for the significant amount of time they spend reviewing conference sessions proposals. This year alone, nearly 500 total session proposals were received and reviewed. They have contributed immensely to shaping the premier educational content for ISC West and ISC East! Thank you to Laurie Anderson of TSG Advisors, Anthony Berticelli of Allegion, Jim Black of Microsoft, Peter Bonitatibus of Butchko Inc., Ross Bourgeois of the City of New Orleans, Nathan Brown of the University of Kentucky Police Department, Brooke Erickson of PSA, Guy Grace of ASSA ABLOY, Scott Gross of Con Edison of New York, Ray Gerwitz of the MD Anderson Cancer Center, Jon Harris of HiveWatch, Sam Joseph of Hakimo, Adi Karisik of Jacobs, Antoinette King of i-PRO, David LaRose of Everon, John Lineweaver of Meta, Rachelle Loyear of Allied Universal, John Maffey of M3T Corporation, James Marcella of Axis Communications, John Nemerofsky of SAGE Integration, Bhavesh Patel of Sanofi, Amanda Payne of Northland Controls, Chris Peckham of Ollivier, Rene Rieder Jr. of Burns Engineering, Christopher Riley of the Columbus Division of Police, James Robles of HID, Jason Shimpf of HID, Joey St. Jacques, Jarod Stockdale of Faith Group LLC and Rachel Wyatt Swanson of Siemens for your support!

You can access the full SIA Education at ISC conference program for only $130 by registering for a SIA Education at ISC Passport. Even better, use SIA’s free registration link to sign up for the ISC East trade show and save 20% on your conference pass!

The views and opinions expressed in guest posts and/or profiles are those of the authors or sources and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Security Industry Association (SIA).