There’s just something about tradeshows that excites me…gets my blood pumping! Maybe it’s because I get to mingle with friends and acquaintances in the security industry, new and old, or maybe it has to do with learning about all the new technology that is available, or maybe it’s the “energy” that’s on the tradeshow floor. I tend to think it’s a mixture of all, plus the coffee consumption doesn’t hurt either.
Gearing up for the ASIS International 61st Annual Seminar and Exhibits, in Anaheim, Cali., I have prepared my schedule to allow the most time possible to mingle about the 20,000 security professionals as well as the approximate 600 exhibitors in attendance. From physical security to cyber security products to investigative technologies and more, this year’s theme, “Evolve 2 Advance” promises to demonstrate security stepping up its game.
Many educational sessions will be offered to address challenges facing security management and cyber security professionals, addressing hot topics and providing industry best practices, information and various hints, tricks and tools to effectively solve issues. In addition, learn from the following three keynote speakers:
On September 29th, from 8am to 9am, Raymond W. Kelly, former commissioner of the New York Police Department, will present his insights on cyber security and counter terrorism by discussing the latest advancements in homeland security and law enforcement, identify threats, and talk about strategic defenses.
The following day, General Michael Hayden, former director of the CIA and National Security Agency will take the stage from 8am to 9am to dissect political situations in hot spots around the world, analyze the global environment and what all this means for the American people.
Closing out the keynote speaker series on Thursday, October 1st, from noon to 2pm will be General James Mattis, former commander of the United States Joint Forces Command. Mattis will rely on his 40 years of experience in leading our troops to share lessons on leadership and guidance.
Some other highlights of this year’s show include:
Mobile App: This little beauty helps attendees stay organized with up-to-the-minute exhibitor, speaker and event information as well as allows users to build personalized show schedules. Users can also rate as well as comment on sessions attended, find attendees and connect with colleagues with the “Friends” feature and find local places in Anaheim.
Spouse Program: This program allows your significant other to visit some of Orange County’s most fascinating points of interest. On Monday, September 28th, from 9:30am to 1pm, spouses will be whisked away to Balboa Island Boutiques and Beauty with more than 70 gift shops, galleries and restaurants. Want bonus points with your spouse? Send your credit card!
On Tuesday, September 29th, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, spouses can enjoy an outing to Bowers Museum, ending with a lunch cruise on John Wayne’s private yacht, the “Wild Goose” with three decks of woodwork, paintings and carvings.
Wednesday, September 30th, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, brings a guided tour of Orange County while spouses have the opportunity to “Jazz it up” on Thursday, October 1st, from 9am until 11:45 with beignets at Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney. Spouses won’t want to miss this private baking demo following by a tasting!
VIP Alumni: ASIS International is rewarding those who make this tradeshow a yearly affair with their exclusive ASIS 2015 VIP Alumni Program. Have you attended three years in a row as a full or single-day registrant, making this year your fourth? Be sure to sign up as a Seminar registrant to automatically be recognized as a VIP Alumnus.
Law Enforcement and Military Appreciation Day: As a longstanding tradition of honoring active duty law enforcement, military and first responders worldwide, admission to ASIS 2015 is FREE on Wednesday, September 30th to those individuals who work to make the world a safer place. (Be sure to have your official government or military photo ID to take advantage of this offer.)
Be sure to follow me on Twitter @GingerHill13 and @SecProds and if you don’t have Periscope, I suggest you get it as I will be showing live coverage of the show!