The third annual Consult 2019 Technical Security Symposium is specifically focused on security specifier consultants. The members of this important security segment of our ecosystem had previously been underserved.

The brainchild of Ray Coulombe, managing director of Security Specifiers, is supported by a select group of supplier partners and attended by top global security consultants. It was quite a success with over 250 in attendance. The event also included a unique spouse program which included activities such as hot air balloon rides, jewelry making and more — pretty smart when you consider how much we consultants are away from hearth and home.

This event is unique for sharing lessons learned, compliance and business trends, building stronger trusting relationships, and providing new perspectives to help advance our professionalism.

The search for next generation talent is a challenge for our entire industry of consultants. I had the privilege of moderating a bright young panel of security consultants that included Chrissy McCutcheon, Michael Newsome, Chris Wiggins and Carl Will. Their unique perspectives helped attendees gain insights on attracting and hiring new talent in a very tight market.

Sessions were provocative and timely, and included subject matter such as cybersecurity, lessons learned when projects go wrong, the liability of workplace violence/active shooter, best practices in acceptance testing and working more effectively with system integrators.

A key takeaway? We consultants are only as effective as our ability to communicate, translate and educate to the value chain the client requirements and intended outcome of the security project we are charged with delivering.

I was particularly impressed with the level and depth of dialogue with the 26 suppliers that went far beyond features, function, and speeds and feeds. They truly wanted to understand how we look at the world and what product road maps should look like in the future. This is a refreshing change from standard trade show conversations that are often rushed and lack real communication.

Additional benefits for attending are certification credits for CPP, PSP, BISCI and CSPM. These provide continuing education requirements that all security professionals must pursue to stay relevant.

Consult 2020 will be held in Nashville, TN next October. We look forward to sharing and learning at this dynamic symposium.

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