Skills for Security has pledged its support for the new Next Gen Network, a significant initiative launched as part of the Safety & Security Event Series.
This platform aims to amplify the voices of early-career professionals across the security, safety, workplace, and integration sectors, providing them with a stage to engage and shape industry developments.
Empowering Early-Career Professionals
The Next Gen Network is set to make its debut during the 2026 exhibition series scheduled for April 28-30.
This initiative strives to connect young professionals with industry discussions and networking opportunities. It encourages their active participation in conversations that could influence their future career paths.
Building a Capable Workforce
Nineteen Group's Senior Marketing Manager, Nathan Stovell, highlighted the critical nature of this initiative amid ongoing skills shortages.
He remarked, “As the industry continues to face well-documented skills shortages, the need to attract, retain and develop new entrants has become increasingly pressing. We launched the Next Gen Network to address this and create an environment to help young professionals reach their potential with dedicated industry support. Ambassadors such as Skills for Security are critical to this success and will play an important role in building a workforce that is resilient, capable, and prepared for the future.”
Fostering Industry Connections
Next Gen Network strengthens industry connections beyond personal developmentThe Next Gen Network goes beyond personal development by fostering stronger connections between the industry, educational institutions, and professional bodies. It serves as a bridge for young professionals, bringing them into closer dialogue with employers and their peers.
This engagement is crucial in enhancing their understanding of the sector's career pathways, expectations, and opportunities.
Adapting to New Generational Needs
The network facilitates industry leaders to adapt to the evolving priorities of the new generation by listening and responding to their needs.
Insights gathered through ambassador collaborations will help shape future event programming and content themes at the Safety & Security Event Series, ensuring alignment with the workforce's evolving demands.
Providing Opportunities
David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “It’s great to be involved in the Next Gen Network and to support an initiative that is focused on giving early-career professionals clear direction within our industry. Creating opportunities for a new way to champion talent and encouraging connection, learning, and better understanding of the wider sector at this stage of their career is essential. We’re looking forward to its launch and using our position to support and shape its future direction.”
