ASIS International, the world’s largest association for security management professionals, celebrated Military and Law Enforcement Appreciation Day at Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2024 on 25 Wednesday. All law enforcement, military, and first responders received a free one-day pass to attend GSX.
To honor those who serve and protect, ASIS began the day with a special breakfast event. This gathering celebrated the dedication of active duty and retired professionals from law enforcement, military service, and emergency response fields. ASIS extends its gratitude to service members worldwide for their tireless efforts in safeguarding our communities.
Al Qaeda terrorists
Lippold was the commanding officer on the USS Cole in 2000 when Al Qaeda terrorists attacked it
Wednesday’s general session opened with a performance from the Central Florida First Responders Pipes & Drums, followed by Commander Kirk Lippold, U.S. Navy (Ret.)’s keynote address. Commander Lippold was the commanding officer on the USS Cole in 2000 when it was attacked by Al Qaeda terrorists in a suicide bombing.
In this session, Commander Lippold shared about the attack, its aftermath, and the many split-second decisions he had to make to manage the crisis. He highlighted the importance of not only making decisions but making those decisions with integrity. “Integrity really is making the right moral and ethical decision regardless of the consequences,” Commander Lippold said.
Military and law enforcement
In addition, Commander Lippold spoke to how being in the military taught him about leadership, and how to manage people. He discussed the importance of knowing the strengths of their people and trusting them to make the right decisions. “You, as pioneers, have to be able to trust.” He added, “Give your people that opportunity and you will be amazed at what they can accomplish.”
Also in the general session, U.S. Army veteran and ASIS Professional Certification Board (PCB) member Eric Kready, CPP, discussed the work he and the PCB have been doing to develop resources for military and law enforcement personnel transitioning to private security.
Private security sector
The crucial part of civilian life after a career in the military or law enforcement can translate the skills
“It’s no secret that military and law enforcement serve as a talent pipeline to our profession,” Kready said. “Veterans play a significant role in the world of security. Transition resources are vital for military and law enforcement personnel moving into civilian careers. These resources help veterans and officers leverage their unique skills—such as leadership, discipline, crisis management, and problem-solving—into new opportunities in security management.”
A number of Wednesday’s other sessions focused on the process of transitioning from military and law enforcement into the private security sector. A crucial part of transitioning to civilian life following a career in military or law enforcement is being able to effectively translate the skills acquired during service to private industry.
Transition to the civilian security sector
“Career Mapping: Plan Your Post-Military Journey,” hosted by Michael Reiner, CPP, and Mike Anderson, CPP, PSP, discussed the challenges that can arise when navigating the transition to the civilian security sector, and what resources are available to help.
The session highlighted the military-to-civilian career maps created by the PCB, which were developed in conjunction with security professionals who have successfully transitioned from various sectors of the military to private security.
Career in private security
The PCB has also developed a career transition map for federal law enforcement officers
The ASIS Law Enforcement Liaison Community hosted a session with speakers Justin Jackson and Karen Flowers titled “But How Does It Translate: Pivoting Law Enforcement Skills for Career Advancements and Transitions in Security.”
This session focused specifically on strategies for career advancement within law enforcement and transitioning to a career in private security, followed by a lively Q&A. The PCB has also developed a career transition map for federal law enforcement officers.
Metro Law Enforcement
ASIS International is committed to developing more tools and resources to assist with career transitioning for military and law enforcement across the world. Transition guides for Metro Law Enforcement and the U.S. Coast Guard are coming soon, with future guides for the U.S. Marines and international militaries planned.
In addition to the sessions on military and law enforcement, education at day three of GSX also covered a variety of topics such as cybersecurity, autonomous vehicles, cultural intelligence, disinformation, insider threats, professional development, and security architecture. ASIS International has announced that New Orleans, Louisiana will host GSX 2025 from 30 September to 1 October.
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