Summer 2011 Newsletter

Will Electronics Hosts Second
Annual Security Conference
and Technology Expo

A decade has passed since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. In the ten years that followed, security measures and protocols have been elevated to a level never before seen in the history of the United States. As the tenth anniversary of 9/11 approaches, Will Electronics set out to bring together experts and professionals from throughout the security industry to convene in St. Louis. The goal: to avert similar tragedies from ever taking place again on American soil.

On Tuesday, May 3, 2011, Will Electronics hosted the Second Annual Security Conference and Technology Expo. The event brought together well over 100 attendees to the conference center at Lumiére Place Hotel & Casino in downtown St. Louis. Events included guest speakers, breakout sessions with security industry experts, a panel discussion and a viewing area full of product displays by vendors from throughout the security industry.

This year’s keynote presentation, “Threat Recognition and Response,” was delivered by Bob Henrich, Explosives Specialist Field Liaison with the Department of Homeland Security/Transportation Security Administration. Mr. Henrich’s presentation included authentic video footage of explosive detonations recorded by agents in the field, as well as actual explosive materials recovered by DHS agents during their investigations. He impressed upon the audience the importance of establishing procedures and protocols not only for what to look for when screening potential explosives, but also what to do when a suspicious package or container is encountered on a property or public space.

Later, attendees split up to participate in one of three breakout sessions hosted by event sponsors. The three breakout groups were:
• “Unification of IP Security Solutions” hosted by Genetec
• “High-Definition Video Technology” hosted by Panasonic
• “Controlling the Door 101” hosted by R2S Technology and Assa Abloy.

The afternoon was highlighted by an interactive panel discussion and Q&A session. Raymond Lauer, Business Developer with Will Electronics, served as moderator, while audience members offered questions to a diverse panel comprised of security executives from throughout the St. Louis area. The panel featured Chuck Mansell, Director of Security at Commerce Bank of St. Louis; Gabe Zwilling, Physical Security Manager at Scottrade; Richard Cunningham, Director of Security Services South Region for SSM Healthcare; Jerry Hartman, Manager of Administrative Services with the Sho-Me Power Electric Cooperative; and Rob Loseman, Manager of Security at Boone Hospital Center/BJC.

“Last year’s Security Conference and Technology Expo was a huge success, so we expected great things from this year’s event. Indeed, it surpassed all our expectations,” said Will Electronics President Kurt Will. “It’s exciting to be able to bring so many industry professionals together to network, share insights and explore new innovations that benefit both the security industry as well as the clients we serve.”

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