GSX 2024 attracts 16,000 registrants from 86 nations

ORLANDO, Fla., and ALEXANDRIA, Va.—ASIS International announced that attendance for Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2024 exceeded projections, with 16,000 registrants from 86 countries along with approximately 500 exhibiting companies demonstrating the latest security solutions. 

The event, which took place Sept. 23-25 at the Orange County Convention Center, offered discussion and idea exchanges for the global security community.

"GSX 2024 has once again proven to be an invaluable platform for security professionals worldwide to connect, collaborate, and innovate,” stated Cy A. Oatridge, CPP, 2024 president, ASIS International. “This event is not just about showcasing the latest technologies; it's about fostering relationships and sharing knowledge on a global scale. As we navigate a complex security landscape, it's these relationships that will drive innovation, enhance our collective knowledge, and ultimately strengthen our ability to protect and serve. GSX reminds us that in the field of security, we are indeed stronger together." 

A weekend of pre-conference events featured Secure Horizons: An Immersive Experience for Senior Security Executives, ASIS Volunteers’ Day, and the ASIS Awards of Excellence alongside the Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs).

GSX kicked off on Monday, Sept. 23, with a keynote presentation from former Prime Minister of Finland Sanna Marin. Prime Minister Marin discussed the intricacies of modern geopolitics, especially the recent Russian assault on Ukraine and Finland’s entry into NATO, calling for a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to global security challenges that maintains the benefits of global trade while reducing vulnerabilities to authoritarian regimes. 

Following Marin’s keynote presentation, the event’s exhibit hall opened showcasing 500 companies providing innovative security solutions. Monday also launched the start of more than 200 education sessions featuring presenters from 21 countries over the three-day event. 

In Tuesday’s general session, Dr. Rana el Kaliouby, an executive fellow at Harvard Business School, co-founder of Blue Tulip Ventures, and an investor in leading AI technology, discussed the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence in our lives, the opportunities that it presents, and the potential risks. She also highlighted the real-world effects and economic impact of artificial intelligence. 

The ASIS Professional Standards Board hosted a press briefing Tuesday morning featuring a panel of experts who detailed the proposed ASIS School Security Standard. The proposed standard is a comprehensive tool that includes information on program management, risk management, behavioral threat assessment management, and developing operational emergency plans, as well as effective approaches to managing physical security in K-12 settings. 

The second day of GSX concluded with ASIS Celebrates! at Universal Studios Florida. Thousands of attendees enjoyed food, performances, and rides with exclusive access to the park. 

Military and Law Enforcement Appreciation Day took place on the final day of GSX, Wednesday, Sept. 25. To honor those who serve and protect, ASIS began the day with a special breakfast event. celebrating the dedication of active duty and retired professionals from law enforcement, military service, and emergency response fields.

In Wednesday’s general session, Commander Kirk Lippold, U.S. Navy (Ret.), shared his personal experience as the commanding officer of the USS Cole in 2000, when it was attacked by Al Qaeda terrorists in a suicide bombing. Commander Lippold highlighted the importance of acting with integrity, and the importance as a leader of knowing the strengths of your people and trusting them to make the right decisions.

Among the learning opportunities at GSX were “game changer” sessions with industry experts speaking on resilience, trust and maintaining in crisis. There were “speed learning” sessions on the exhibit show floor, such as the X Stage, the Resilience Zone, and the Cybersecurity Pavilion, each of which offered cutting-edge solutions to keep businesses thriving. At Career HQ, security professionals were offered resume reviews, access to the headshot studio, and professional development sessions. 

"The sheer scope of this year's event – from our thought-provoking keynotes to over 200 specialized education sessions – demonstrates the dynamic nature of our industry,” said Bill Tenney, CEO, ASIS International. “GSX 2024 has not only been a showcase for cutting-edge security approaches and solutions but also a testament to the strength and unity of our professional community. Events of this caliber are vital in propelling our profession and industry forward, equipping us to meet future challenges head-on.”

GSX 2025 will take place from Sept. 29-Oct. 1 in New Orleans.