Building your security game plan for GSX 2021

John Petruzzi, ASIS International

Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2021 will be perhaps the most ambitious GSX in the history of ASIS International.

ASIS has taken the most comprehensive event for security professionals and evolved it to the most inclusive event the industry has seen.

Thousands of security professionals from across the globe will be participating at this year’s GSX on Sept. 27-29, 2021 in Orlando, Fla., or through the GSX online digital platform.

Beginning with our digital kick-off event on Sept. 15, GSX 2021 will serve to support, nurture, connect and inform a diverse group of global security professionals with robust digital and in-person programming.

This year’s GSX means a little bit more for many of us and, as the first in-person GSX in a little over two years, will serve as the first opportunity in that time for us to reconnect in-person with many valued colleagues and friends.

GSX is community-building at its finest for the individuals who make our world a safer place to live and work. At the core of building a best-in-class online and in-person experience was a deep commitment to inclusivity, so that if someone was unable to travel to our live venue, they would still have access to this industry-leading event.

The GSX education program addresses the biggest trends, issues and challenges facing the security profession, including access control, artificial intelligence, asset protection, crisis management and business continuity, cybersecurity, drone technology, workplace violence prevention, and more.

The GSX All-Access Pass unlocks six learning theatres and more than 90 live sessions — including inspiring education sessions, expert-led tracks, exhibitor presentations, timely insights from Game Changers, and pre- and post-GSX sessions — and the ability to earn 21 CPEs. You can view the entire GSX lineup via the GSX website.

Keynote presentations will begin on Sept. 15 and will feature the following celebrated authors and experts.

Wednesday, Sept. 15 (GSX Preview Event): Erik Qualman (Security 2030: Crossroads of Innovation and Transformation)

Monday, Sept. 27: Dan Pink (How to Make Time Your Ally, Not Your Enemy)

Tuesday, Sept. 28: Amanda Ripley (Breaking the Spell of High Conflict)

Wednesday, Sept. 29: Nadja West (Leading Through Uncertainty)

During Military & Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (MLEAD) on Sept. 29, all military, law enforcement and first responders receive free one-day admission to GSX. To learn more about MLEAD, please visit www.GSX.org/MLEAD.

ASIS has also recently revealed their GSX 2021 Game Changer sessions, taking place each day of the event. Game Changer sessions, which will also be broadcast live for the digital audience, provide multiple perspectives from thought leaders to help attendees stay informed about new and forward-looking strategies, maintain a competitive edge, and elevate expertise across their organizations.

Monday, Sept. 27: Keeping Pace with Cyber Threats: Developing a Future Focused Risk Posture

Tuesday, Sept. 28: Post-Pandemic Workplace: The Mental Health and Wellness of Employees

Wednesday, Sept. 29: From the Battle to the Board: Management Lessons from Female Military Leaders

Additionally, the in-person format of GSX 2021 will feature nearly 300 exhibitors with cutting-edge innovations, technologies, and services. GSX’s in-person host is the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., which received the Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) Star™ accreditation on outbreak prevention, response, and recovery. Rest assured that we are taking every precaution to safeguard your health and safety.

If you can’t join us in-person in Orlando, every attendee is valued through the GSX digital experience. From the digital kickoff event on Sept. 15, you’ll have access to on-demand content through the end of the year.

You can tune in to live-streamed events from two learning theatres during Sept. 27-29. Engage in live Q&As and speaker interviews during pre- and post- encore events through the GSX platform. Access to on-demand content is available through Dec. 31.

Lastly, it is important to note that involvement in GSX directly supports the funding of scholarships for security professionals and the administration of essential industry certifications, standards, and guidelines.

So, whether you can attend in-person or remotely, GSX is the place where global security professionals convene to develop their security game plans, network and conduct commerce. For more information about GSX, please visit GSX.org. See you all at #GSX2021!

John Petruzzi is the 66th president of ASIS International.