CAREER ZONE
The Career Zone at ISC East host’s a range of informative workshops focused on career growth and workforce development. Gain valuable insights from our expert speakers who will provide practical advice on how to advance your career, build your personal brand and stand out in a crowded job market. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take the next step, the Career Zone at ISC East is the place to make meaningful connections and gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.
Headshot Studio
Visit our free headshot studio, located in the Career Zone, Booth #761. Our experienced photographer will work with you to capture a high-quality headshot that showcases your confidence, professionalism, and expertise.
- Wednesday, November 20
- 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Thursday, November 21
- 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Sponsored by:
2025 Sessions at The Career Zone
Impacting Workforce Development in the Security Industry
Wednesday, November 20 | 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
In the evolving landscape of skilled trades, the security industry faces unique challenges in hiring and retaining talent. This session will provide an overview of the current state of the skilled trades workforce, highlighting specific obstacles that the security sector encounters. We will discuss the critical issues impacting workforce development, including the shortage of skilled professionals and the high turnover rates. Additionally, we will explore the proactive measures FAST is implementing to address these challenges, such as targeted outreach programs, partnerships with educational institutions, and innovative recruitment strategies. Join us to learn about the comprehensive efforts being made to strengthen and grow the talent pipeline in the security industry.
Speaker:
Aiden O'Brien
Executive Director of the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST)
Hiring & Retaining Young Talent Within The Security Industry
Wednesday, November 20 | 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
This session will walk attendees through an overview of the current state of hiring within the security industry where we'll explain challenges, opportunities, the importance of attracting younger talent, misconceptions, and highlight their potential and unique strengths. Next, they will learn about effective hiring strategies that they can use to attract young professionals. Then, we will discuss strategies for retaining young talent. After that we will discuss case studies and success stories before moving to the conclusion and key takeaways. Then finally, we will wrap up with a Q&A session.
Speakers:
Spencer Hall
Business Success Specialist
Miranda Gaines
VP, Talent & Culture
Elaine Palome
Head of Human Resources, Americas
Alejandra Palacios
Data Scientist
How to Develop and Enhance Employee Resource Groups: Insights from Women in Security
Thursday, November 21 | 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM
In an industry where women are underrepresented, finding a support system of fellow females can pose challenges. This panel will feature women representing Allegion's Network of Empowered Women, Dormakaba's Women's Network and Assa Abloy or HID's women's group. We will discuss the importance for women in the security field to support and empower one another by actively engaging in recruiting, mentoring, training, and leadership roles. Through our actions, we hold the power to generate positive impacts, ranging from simple gestures like facilitating networking among female colleagues to dedicating time from busy schedules to mentor other women in the security industry. Join this session to hear about shared experiences and learn how we all can contribute to making a difference.
Speaker:
Beth Anderson
Senior Channel Marketing Manager at Allegion US
Your Career, Your Journey
Thursday, November 21 | 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, taking control of your career has never been more vital. Whether you are just starting your journey or seeking to advance to the next level, proactively managing your career path can open a multitude of opportunities for personal and professional growth. This session will explore the strategies and mindsets needed to navigate and thrive in the dynamic world of work, providing you with the confidence and tools necessary to shape a successful career journey on your terms. You will also gain practical insights and actionable advice to enhance your career trajectory, overcome obstacles, and achieve sustained long-term success.
Speaker:
Kerri Sutherland
Board Chair
Complimentary Education Sessions at the Career Zone:
Sessions on Wednesday, November 19
Paradigm Shift Your Career into High Gear: 5 Keys to Success
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Ready to take control of your career journey? In this interactive and motivational session, attendees will gain practical strategies to accelerate their professional growth. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, Ms. Wilson shares powerful stories and lessons learned that led to a thriving, purpose-driven career.
Speaker:
Sabrina Wilson
Founder, Spill the T Consulting, LLC
Advocate or Advisor? Mentorship vs. Sponsorship in Action
Sponsored by:
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
Mentorship helps you grow. Sponsorship gets you promoted. In this workshop, participants will unpack the differences between these two career accelerators and learn how to engage in or build programs that create tangible impact—especially for underrepresented or early-career professionals. Through interactive discussion and guided mapping activities, attendees will examine sponsorship structures that work, clarify personal career goals, and walk away with a network-building strategy that includes both advisors and advocates. Ideal participants include those building talent pipelines, managing development programs, or navigating career advancement.
Speakers:
Lori Hudnall
Vice President, Human Resources, Sage Integration
Dawna Payne
Executive Vice President, Texadia Systems
Elliot Gabriel
Sales & Design Professional, Preferred Technologies, LLC
Sarah Webel
Human Resources Generalist, Sage Integration
Sessions on Thursday, November 20
Diversity Without Divisiveness: The New Allyship
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Allyship is evolving—are you keeping up? In today’s shifting landscape, DEI efforts are being dismantled, but real inclusion doesn’t disappear—it adapts. The new allyship isn’t about calling people out—it’s about calling them in. This 60-minute session is a candid conversation on how to show up as an ally, create impact without division, and drive real change in the workplace. This isn’t another DEI lecture—it’s a practical, powerful discussion on making allyship work in today’s workplace. Join us and be part of the solution!
Speakers:
Beth Anderson
Director, Digital Marketing, Allegion
Danielle Unger
Vertical Business Development Manager, HID Global
Yazmina Rawji
Relationship Manager, Dormakaba
Future of the Work: Trends, Technology, and Talent
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
As Heraclitus, the ancient Greek philosopher, noted over 2,500 years ago, “There is nothing permanent except change.” This timeless insight is more relevant in today’s rapidly evolving workforce landscape. In this session, we will explore the transformative trends reshaping the world of work and delve into the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities fundamentally changing the nature of employment and organizational dynamics. We will also examine the impact of technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, automation, and remote work, and how these innovations are creating new paradigms in the workplace. Participants will gain valuable insights into the essential skills and competencies required to thrive in an era characterized by constant change and uncertainty.
Speaker:
Kerri Sutherland Manager, HR Business Partnerships, Foundation for Advancing Security Talent |