ASIS Update: Representation and support for women in the security industry

Terri Govang

Owning its vision of “being the recognized leader advancing security worldwide,” the ASIS International 2020-2024 Strategic Plan promises an exciting future for the industry.

This year proves to be picking up traction and gaining ground in support of the plan’s objectives, which include a focus on:

• Achieving recognition for the profession
• Accelerating digital transformation
• Elevating the security function to influence organizational success
• Serving global needs

ASIS Women in Security Canada’s first meeting introduced a strong line-up of chapter liaisons, generating exciting ideas for the year ahead. Participation and involvement with WIS provides participants experiences for career growth; networking amongst a supportive, collaborative community; and sharing ideas and challenges to augment career advancement.

Still, there is work to be done. ASIS Canada includes more than 1,800 security professionals, yet only 12 per cent identify as women.

Women in Security aims to support and assist women in the security industry, motivating participation. Fundamentally, WIS champions its members by providing tailored programming and mentoring, building upon skills and talents to strengthen leadership abilities.

The chapter liaison is a single point of contact for local membership and acts as the conduit to Women in Security globally. A vital part of the overall chapter structure, their primary goal is to support the local WIS network by coordinating communication and events throughout the chapter.

Women benefit from having direct access to professional development by networking with security professionals.

Education programs and resources, such as virtual, in-person or hybrid events, enhance career growth and transition. Moreover, women in our field have avenues to become involved, and contribute experiences and best practices with their WIS chapter cohort.

In 2022, the ASIS Women in Security community will focus on aligning with the association’s strategic initiatives, generating inspiration through:

• Support: Online engagement and communication among community members
• Promote: Expand the Global Women in Security Speaker Series — an available roster for speaking engagements, panels or topics
• Educate: Develop content and resources accessible to community members
• Build: Engage and serve the community through various events over multiple time zones

Our community exists to build membership and provide tools, programs and mentoring to enable women to attain leadership positions.

Programs are tailored to women, although all ASIS allies dedicated to supporting women in the industry are encouraged and welcome.

Participation opportunities benefit all members. Beyond attending events or occasions, contributing to positive change can be as simple as connecting with your chapter WIS liaison, providing input, or joining or forming a local committee.

As life continues to transition from virtual to personal, volunteers play a significant role in creating and delivering inclusive events. Connect with your Women in Security liaison or chapter executive to learn more or become involved.

Our contact information is available via your local chapter or by visiting www.asiscanada.ca.

ASIS Canada 2022 WIS liaisons:
• Atlantic Chapter 202 – Heather McDonald
• Quebec City Chapter 281 – Position open
• Manitoba Chapter 198 – Kendra Rodewald
• Montreal Chapter 196 – Ann-Marie Olivera
• Ottawa Chapter 140 – Nicole Ouellet, CPP
• Southwest Ontario Chapter 241 – Position open
• Toronto Chapter 193 – Ceres Silva, APP
• Saskatchewan Chapter 275 – Helen Perry-Raycraft
• Edmonton Chapter 156 – Pam Brown
• Calgary Chapter 162 – Lindsay Nicholson
• Vancouver Chapter 190 – Lorna Clamp
• Canada Region 6 – Terri Govang, CPP

Terri Govang, CPP, is the assistant regional vice-president (ARVP), ASIS Women in Security, Canada (www.asiscanada.ca).