Several years ago, after attending my fourth or fifth (ASIS) GSX event I got wind of another opportunity called ASIS International. At that time, I thought it was another tradeshow. What I found was a meeting a worldwide group of security influencers

Viva la France

Several years ago, after attending my fourth or fifth (ASIS) GSX event I got wind of another opportunity called ASIS International. At that time, I thought it was another tradeshow. What I found was a meeting a worldwide group of security influencers.

Because I have never been afraid to ask, I powered into my boss’s office to plead my case to attend in some destination call Nice, France. I am sure you already know this, I did, Nice, and the surrounding area is a destination for the rich and famous. I am neither, but my boss agreed and sent me away to make the necessary travel arrangements.

Here was security on the grandest stage of all where security directors from all over the world would be attending and contributing to the narrative. I was way out of my league on this one, but I did not want to squander the opportunity

There were numerous opportunities to listen and learn.

As the three-day affair was nearly complete, the planning of evening events included a bus trip to Monte Carlo, at the Hotel de Paris at Monte-Carle, for a social gathering, and drinks. I am not a drinker, but more about that in a minute.

It is a stunning drive from Nice to Monte Carlo, passing Port Hercules, the only deep-water port in Monaco. In the 1970s the port underwent substantial improvement to provide anchorage for up to 700 vessels. No tugboats or shrimping boats in the marina.

Back to the security soiree at the hotel, a few of the people I met and have the opportunity to chat with included the director a security for ARAMCO, a well-known player in the oil business, especially Saudi Arabia. I really did hear some amazing security stories from the oil field.

vWhile passing through the crowd, I bumped in to the vice president of (Europe) security for Coca Cola. Worried about my welfare, he asked why I did not have a drink. I said I do not drink, but if I did, it would be a Coke, I would be happy. I thought it was something I said, but the man disappeared only to return with a member of the serving staff with several small bottles of Coca Cola. Upon his return, he replied “what kind of security professional would I be if I could not get you a Coke?”

J'ai répondu, ‘’j'espère que vous n'avez pas dû entrer par effraction dans une pièce fermée à clé pour cela, mais merci."

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

Featured

  • The Future is Happening Outside the Cloud

    For years, the cloud has captivated the physical security industry. And for good reason. Remote access, elastic scalability and simplified maintenance reshaped how we think about deploying and managing systems. But as the number of cameras grows and resolutions push from HD to 4K and beyond, the cloud’s limits are becoming unavoidable. Bandwidth bottlenecks. Latency lags. Rising storage costs. These are not abstract concerns. Read Now

  • The Impact of Convergence Between IT and Physical Security

    For years, the worlds of physical security and information technology (IT) remained separate. While they shared common goals and interests, they often worked in silos. Read Now

  • Unlocking Trustworthy AI: Building Transparency in Security Governance

    In situations where AI supports important security tasks like leading investigations and detecting threats and anomalies, transparency is essential. When an incident occurs, investigators must trace the logic behind each automated response to confirm its validity or spot errors. Demanding interpretable AI turns opaque “black boxes” into accountable partners that enhance, rather than compromise, organizational defense. Read Now

  • Seeking Innovative Solutions

    Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance. You may recognize these terms as the “5 Phases” of a grieving process, but they could easily describe the phases one goes through before adopting any new or emerging innovation or technology, especially in a highly risk-averse industry like security. However, the desire for convenience in all aspects of modern life is finally beginning to turn the tide from old school hardware as the go-to towards more user-friendly, yet still secure, door solutions. Read Now

  • Where AI Meets Human Judgment

    Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days. It is driving business growth, shaping consumer experiences, and showing up in places most of us never imagined just a few years ago. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.