Wrapping Up the Fourth Annual Gaming and Hospitality Security Conference
October 27, 2022
From October 24-25, over 300 professionals gathered at the Palms Casino Resort for two days of sessions discussing one of the most important aspects of running any business: security. In today’s uncertain world, having plans to keep employees and patrons safe is paramount, and sessions were designed with just that in mind.
A Packed House With a Packed Agenda
Attendees started the conference with an inspiring keynote led by Native Nation Events’ Coach Jim Stroker. They then immediately went into a hard-hitting session, discussing the latest advances in technology and surveillance, moderated by Edwin Coello (Director of Public Safety and Data Governance, FaceFirst). In this session, panelists talked about advancements in technology for baggage screenings, metal detectors, facial recognition software, and how their patrons can feel safe while on their properties.
Security Sessions With Real-World Applications
Attendees also enjoyed takeaways from sessions centered around preparation and response to natural disasters. There, Scott Thomas (National Director of Sales for Signature Brands, Genetec) moderated with presenters David Cook (Chief Security Officer, Muscogee Nation Gaming Enterprise), Walter Gunn (Director of Safety and Security, Tachi Palace Casino), and Brian Hunt (Security Manager, Twin Pine Casino) shared their experiences of not only preparing for the worst but experiencing it first hand. The panelists had a riveting discussion on the importance of developing and implementing an Emergency Action Plan, training staff for natural disasters, and how government agencies can support the team in relief efforts.
Another session our attendees tremendously enjoyed and want to see additional coverage on is situational awareness and de-escalation best practices. Brian Hunt (Security Manager, Twin Pine Casino) remarked that “knowing how to verbally de-escalate a situation is paramount in preventing problems.” Susan Persell (Security Operations Manager, The Mill Casino Hotel and RV Park) commented that “[knowing how to] de-escalate without hands-on. Why use hands at all with the negative results it causes?” Continuing to explore this topic and providing insights will be paramount for security professionals for years to come.
The Fourth Annual Gaming and Hospitality Security Conference was another wildly successful event, thanks to our on-site staff, sponsors, panelists and moderators, and attendees’ efforts. The testimonials from attendees showcase the value this event brings year after year. We’re already looking forward to the fifth annual gathering, and we can’t wait to produce another impactful program. Sign up to join our mailing list to stay in the loop when we announce our conferences, receive special pricing notifications, and learn more about the sessions and presenters who bring our conferences to life.
