5 Compelling Reasons to Attend the Close Protection Conference

Welcome to the International Protective Security blog!

In this, our first post, our six prominent industry board members invite you to attend the Close Protection Conference December 2-3, 2016 at Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino – with five compelling reasons why you should attend.

You’ve heard about the Close Protection Conference in Las Vegas. You’ve noted the dates. But you’re probably still mulling over whether you’ll actually go or not. We’re here to help you to climb off the fence and be part of something big. And, we’ve got five good reasons why you should register today and book that plane ticket.

#1: The scope of this year’s conference is broader than ever

One of the highlights of this year’s conference is the comprehensive nature of the program and participants: It’s specifically designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of professionals across all five slices of the protective services pie.

Chuck Randolph wrote an important blog back in 2014 in which he delineated the protective industry’s five key sectors – and this year’s conference includes all of them:

• Entertainment
• High net-worth
• Protective security details (PSD)
• Executive/corporate protection
• Law enforcement/government

As Chuck points out, protective professionals in all of these five sectors are doing the same thing – protecting people. But they’re doing it in slightly and sometimes significantly different ways.

“In the current security context,” says Chuck, “these distinctions are important. At the same time, it’s more critical than ever that professionals in one sector learn from those in others. This year’s conference will move beyond a ‘one size fits all’ approach that characterizes the old-school way of doing things, and embraces a cross-sectoral perspective that will be helpful to all.”

Read Chuck’s blog here.

#2: You will learn something new, true and useful

No matter what your background or what part of the protective industry you work in, you can count on an exceptional learning experience at this year’s conference.

One of the key questions we’ll ask and answer, explains Filippo Merino, focuses on the industry’s readiness to confront the current threat levels. “Given the changing nature of terrorist and other violent attacks, is the protective industry keeping pace – and how do we up our game? We want people to think about readiness, and be sure that we all are aware of relevant threats and suitable mitigation.”

This year’s conference is all about enabling participants to expand their skill sets. According to Kristin Lenardson, “The 2016 conference will be an interactive forum where we will share strategic and tactical perspectives and investigate emerging trends in the protective industry. The presenters are as passionate as they are knowledgeable, and the conference’s breakout sessions and newly-minted ‘tac talks’ are a great way to get up to speed on critical issues quickly.”

#3: Networking, networking, networking

With more participants from more sectors and locations than ever before, the 2016 conference is the ideal way to refresh old industry contacts and make new ones.

“Social media is great, but nothing beats face-to-face meetings with people,” says Jerry Heying. “If you’re serious about working in the protective industry, attending this year’s conference is a fantastic investment in your career. Developing contacts throughout the industry boosts your social capital, and that’s invaluable to both seasoned and budding professionals.”

Bob Duggan concurs: “One of the great things about the Close Protection Conference is the opportunity to meet so many people in one place. There are folks from all sectors, all levels and with many different areas of expertise. If you’ve been in the game for many years, it’s the ideal way to catch up with a lot of people you won’t see elsewhere. If you’re new to the industry, there is no better way to initiate and cultivate relationships that can be career changers.”

#4: You will help build and professionalize the protective industry

As the biggest gathering of protective professionals anywhere, the Close Protection Conference is uniquely positioned to gather and showcase an industry that is rapidly changing.

“Many things have changed in the protective industry over the last 20 years,” says Christian West. “But, the most significant development is without a doubt the professionalization of the entire industry. Standards are improving. Best practices are getting honed and shared. We need to continue to take responsibility for and ownership of our own destiny. Bringing together everyone in the industry to learn and grow together is an important step in the right direction.”

#5: You will have fun

Learning and networking are enjoyable enough. But if you’re up for more, well, this is Vegas.

The conference venue is right on the Strip. So, you’re a stone’s throw from great hotels and great meals – all at great prices.

We look forward to seeing you there for the best Close Protection Conference ever!

Register now for this year’s conference.

Sign up for more information on this year’s conference.

When

Friday, December 2, 2016 at 8:00 AM – Saturday, December 3, 2016 at 4:30 AM (PST)

Where

Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino – 3645 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States – View Map