Industry Updates

The Seventh Annual Tribal Security and Surveillance Conference took place October 28–29, 2025, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. Over two dynamic days, tribal leaders, security professionals, and industry experts came together to explore the latest strategies, technologies, and best practices shaping the future of tribal security and surveillance.

Day One: Foundations and Forward-Thinking Strategies

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Dan O’Connor, Director of Sales at Native Nation Events, and Chase Martin, Director of Business Development at Relay, who served as a conference co-chair. They thanked sponsors and attendees for their support and set the stage for two days of conversation around the evolving landscape of tribal security and surveillance.

The first session, “Building Better Security: Lessons from the Evolution of Assessment Practices,” moderated by Andy Sperpoulos, NORAM Sales Manager at Cognitec Systems Corp, examined how risk and vulnerability assessments have evolved—from traditional methods to advanced, data-driven approaches. Panelists shared practical strategies tailored to tribal reservations and casino operations, giving attendees actionable insights to strengthen protection for assets, guests, and communities.

Following the session, attendees continued the conversation during a morning networking break, exchanging ideas, discussing key takeaways, and forming new professional connections.

Next, “Responding to Crisis: Managing Combative Patrons, Medical Emergencies, and Coordinated Security,” moderated by Tim Rogers, Business Development Manager at Relay, focused on critical crisis response strategies in tribal and casino settings. The session highlighted how advanced first responder technologies and proven best practices can be adapted to unique environments to enhance safety and ensure rapid, effective response.

After lunch, attendees chose between two sessions: “Evolving Threats, Smarter Solutions: The Future of Safety Tech,” moderated by Matt Welch, Chief Marketing Officer at Relay, or “Strengthening Casino Physical Security to Counter Rising Access Threats,” moderated by Andy Sperpoulos, NORAM Sales Manager at Cognitec Systems Corp. Both sessions offered engaging discussions and practical insights, keeping attendees actively involved and informed.

Participants then reunited for a product demonstration from ZeroEyes, “ZeroEyes Gun Detection Platform – Proactive Security for Casinos,” led by Jon Norton, Regional Vice President at ZeroEyes. The demonstration offered attendees hands-on insight into the platform, showcasing its capabilities in an engaging and informative way.

Following the demo, attendees came together for an afternoon networking break, buzzing with conversation and collaborative energy.

The day concluded with a forward-looking roundtable, “Future-Proofing Your Security Strategy,” moderated by Rob Ryan, Senior Business Development Manager at Leonardo. Experts discussed emerging technologies, innovative staff training techniques, and collaborative approaches, providing attendees with practical strategies to enhance safety and operational readiness.

The evening wrapped up with a reception sponsored by Relay, giving attendees a chance to relax, network, and continue conversations in an informal setting. Participants enjoyed connecting with peers, panelists, and sponsors, sharing insights from the day, and building relationships that would carry into Day Two.

Day Two: Innovation, Cybersecurity, and Real-World Applications

Day two began with “AI in Security and Surveillance: Navigating Innovation in High-Risk Environments,” moderated by Matthew Carrier, Vice President of Sales at eConnect. Panelists explored cutting-edge AI applications reshaping security operations in high-risk settings, addressed ethical considerations, and shared practical strategies for implementation. The panel sparked lively interaction, with attendees eager to deepen their understanding and continue exploring AI’s potential in security and surveillance.

Next, participants chose from breakout sessions, including “Casino Security and Asset Protection: Loss Prevention and Lost and Found Management,” moderated by James Mosieur, Founder/Director of 911 Cell Phone Bank, and “Modernizing Oversight: Driving Compliance and Investigative Support,” moderated by Sheryl Sterling, Senior Director, Pre-Sales at Omnigo. Both sessions offered engaging discussions and practical insights.

Following the breakout sessions, attendees came together for a morning networking break, recharging and connecting while sharing ideas and experiences.

The focus then shifted to cybersecurity with “Cybersecurity Leadership in Tribal Organizations: Strategy, Metrics, and Ransomware Readiness,” moderated by John Hirai, Solutions Architect, Western Region at Adrytech. The session highlighted how to cultivate a proactive cybersecurity culture, engage teams, enhance organizational security, and track progress through relevant KPIs.

Following the panel, Matt Anderson, Security Director of Grand Traverse Resort and Casino, shared how relevant and meaningful the session was in light of challenges currently faced across casino enterprises, citing a recent data breach and noting how several of the panel’s insights would be instrumental in guiding future security efforts.

After lunch, the focus turned to real-world experiences with “Lessons from the Frontlines: Using Data to Drive Decisions and Build Safer, Smarter Operations,” moderated by Sheryl Sterling, Senior Director, Pre-Sales at Omnigo. Panelists shared practical examples of how data-driven decision-making can uncover risks, optimize resources, and create safer, more efficient operations.

The next session, “Actionable Strategies to Detect and Disrupt Trafficking and Drug Activity,” moderated by Eddie Illko, Safety and Occupational Health Manager at the National Indian Gaming Commission, highlighted proactive strategies to combat trafficking and drug networks. Panelists emphasized the importance of collaboration among staff, security teams, and surveillance operations to protect tribal communities and gaming enterprises.

Throughout the conference, Justin Preble, Security Operations Manager at River Spirit Casino, shared his personal insights. With extensive experience attending Native Nation Events Security Conferences and hands-on familiarity with many of the technologies discussed, he offered valuable perspectives on panels he spoke on — and even on ones he didn’t. Attendees appreciated his firsthand stories and practical examples.

The conference concluded with “From Bystanders to Responders: Empowering Staff in Emergency Situations,” moderated by Neil Lillie, Public Safety Director at Black Oak Casino Resort. The session underscored staff’s pivotal role in emergency response, sharing proven strategies in crisis management, security protocols, training, and communication, all tailored to tribal and casino environments to ensure rapid, effective action.

The Seventh Annual Tribal Security & Surveillance Conference was a tremendous success, thanks to the dedication of our staff, sponsors, panelists, and attendees. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. One attendee noted that what sets this conference apart is its detailed, relevant content that doesn’t feel repetitive year after year. Participants also appreciated the smaller, more intimate setting, which proved invaluable for networking. Sponsors also noted the high level of engagement, reporting that they made numerous meaningful connections throughout the event.

We look forward to next year’s event, continuing to advance knowledge, collaboration, and innovation in tribal security and surveillance. Stay connected through our website, social media, and email updates for the latest news and announcements.