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

  • Accelerating a Pathway

    There is a new trend touting the transformational qualities of AI’s ability to deliver actionable data and predictive analysis that in many instances, seems to be a bit of an overpromise. The reality is that very few solutions in the cyber-physical security (CPS) space live up to this high expectation with the one exception being the new generation of Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software – herein recategorized as PIAM+. Read Now

  • Protecting Your Zones

    It is game day. You can feel the crowd’s energy. In the parking lot. At the gate. In the stadium. On the concourse. Fans are eager to party. Food and merchandise vendors ready themselves for the rush. Read Now

  • Street Smarts

    The ongoing acceptance of AI and advanced data analytics has allowed surveillance camera technology to shift from being a tactical tool to a strategic business solution. Combining traditional surveillance technology with AI-based data-driven insights can streamline transportation systems, enhance traffic management, improve situational awareness, optimize resource allocation and streamline emergency response procedures. Read Now

  • The Progress of Biometrics

  • Next-Gen AI for Smart Cities

    The future of smart city technology is not being shaped in Silicon Valley — it is taking root in Dubuque, Iowa. With a population of about 60,000, this mid-sized city has become a live testbed for AI-driven traffic management thanks to a unique public-private collaboration led by Milestone Systems. Project Hafnia demonstrates how cities can transform urban mobility and safety through Responsible Technology—without costly infrastructure overhauls. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.