Security LeadHER, Presented by ASIS International and the Security Industry Association, Brings Together 500 Women in Security and Their Allies From 40 U.S. States and 11 Nations
Minneapolis plays host to security conference building current and next-generation female industry leaders
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.—Security LeadHER, the premier event dedicated to advancing women in the global security industry, welcomed 500 security leaders to the Hilton Minneapolis on June 15–16, 2026, for two days of connection, learning and community impact. Presented by ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA), this year’s gathering marked a roughly 10% increase in registrations over 2025—a clear signal of the event’s growing momentum and the expanding community it serves.
From the Midwest to the Middle East, attendees traveled from 40 U.S. states and 11 nations to be part of the experience with a shared commitment to advancing, connecting and empowering women across the profession.
“The conversations, mentorship, sponsorship and meaningful connections fostered this week are not only shaping individual careers—they are helping shape the future of the security profession,” said Rachael Paskvan, chair of the ASIS Women in Security community and head of protective services at Ecolab. “We are proud to partner with SIA to create a space where leaders, allies and emerging professionals can learn from one another, share experiences and drive meaningful change across our industry. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive security community where everyone has the opportunity to grow, lead and succeed.”
“Security LeadHER 2026 demonstrates the incredible momentum behind the advancement of women in the security industry. What makes this event so powerful is that it goes beyond inspiration: it creates meaningful connections, actionable insights and opportunities that continue long after the event ends,” said Candice Aragon, chair of the SIA Women in Security Forum and chief experience officer at PSA. “We are proud to see this community growing and grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year’s conference our most impactful yet.”
Attendees enjoyed exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at two of Minnesota’s most iconic destinations. At the Target Corporate Command Center—the 24/7 hub that monitors business, safety and security issues across nearly 2,000 stores and more than 60 supply chain facilities—attendees toured the center and saw a live demonstration of Target’s advanced analytics and automation. At the Mall of America Security Operations and the Axis Experience Center, they went inside the day-to-day management of the largest mall in America, learning how the team keeps more than 100,000 daily patrons safe and the next-generation technology that makes it possible. Together, the tours offered a rare, insider look at security operations at scale.
The result is an event that brings women leaders in the security profession together with allies who champion the mission—creating space to advance, connect and empower women in the industry, present and future.
The program was anchored by two powerful keynote addresses. Organizational psychologist, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill professor and status-and-negotiation expert Alison Fragale, Ph.D., opened the conference with “Likeable Badass: The Science of Winning the Status Game,” unpacking why women are so often forced to choose between being seen as competent and being seen as likeable and how a science-based understanding of status can change that dynamic. On Day 2, author and workplace equity expert Minda Harts delivered “Your Voice Is Your Value,” blending her self-advocacy strategies with her “Seven Trust Languages” framework to help attendees strengthen self-trust and communicate their worth with confidence, even amid difficult power dynamics.
The conference closed with a leadership panel, “The Power of Sponsorship and Allyship,” in which women security leaders shared candid career stories about the advocates who opened doors, amplified their voices, and helped break down barriers. Karen Frank, managing director and head of firm safety and security services at KPMG, moderated the discussion featuring panelists Kimberly Fearno, regional vice president at Convergint; Emy Johnson, vice president and chief security officer at Allina Health; Alaina Meyer, president of scDataCom; and Dawanna S. Witt, sheriff of Hennepin County, Minnesota.
Beyond the keynotes, attendees chose from a unique and robust slate of breakouts, roundtables and sessions spanning the challenges and opportunities facing women in security today. Topics ranged from executive presence, confident communication and mastering hard conversations to navigating nonlinear career paths, personal branding and strategic networking for a global security career. Sessions also tackled the field’s most pressing issues and challenges, including leading across generations in the age of artificial intelligence, recognizing bias in data-driven decision making, the role of psychological safety in high-performing security teams, women in executive protection and building the next-generation pipeline of women leaders. The breadth reflected Security LeadHER’s commitment to meeting professionals wherever they are on their leadership journey, from entry and mid-level roles to the C-suite.
Security LeadHER 2026 was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors across every tier:
- Premier Sponsors: Amazon Worldwide Operations Security, Apple and HID
- Executive Sponsors: Allegion, Axis Communications, Boon Edam, Circadian Risk, M.C. Dean, Salto, Securitas, Securitas Technology and Wesco
- Partner Sponsors: Genetec, GSA, Hanwha Vision, Inter-Con Security, Johnson Controls, Resolver, Sage Integration, Verkada and ZBeta
Their partnership powers not only an exceptional attendee experience, but also the community investment that defines what Security LeadHER stands for.
Security LeadHER is more than a conference—it’s a way the security industry contributes to building stronger, more resilient communities. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Axis Communications, Security LeadHER is proud to go beyond the event itself and invest directly in the cities that welcome it. This year, that city is Minneapolis. By partnering with women-owned businesses already making a difference in their local communities, Security LeadHER puts its values of advancing, connecting and empowering women into action. The event is proud to stand alongside Tameka Jones, founder and CEO of Lip Esteem, in her mission of empowering women and in recognition of her local impact. This year’s conference also hosted a clothing drive benefiting Dress for Success Twin Cities, an organization supporting individuals ages 18+ with career advancement services including coaching, classes and workplace attire.
Missed this year’s conference or want to relive it? Check out the photo gallery here.
Save the date for next year’s Security LeadHER event, taking place June 14–15, 2027, in Austin, Texas. For more information and updates on Security LeadHER, please visit https://securityleadher.org/.
About ASIS International
Founded in 1955, ASIS International is the world’s largest membership organization for security management professionals, with more than 34,000 members across 240+ chapters globally. ASIS is recognized as the premier source for learning, networking, standards, and research in the security profession. Through its board certifications, award-winning Security Management magazine, and Global Security Exchange (GSX)—the most influential event in the profession—ASIS ensures its members and the security community have access to the intelligence and resources necessary to protect their people, property, and assets. Learn more at https://www.asisonline.org/.
About the Security Industry Association
SIA (https://www.securityindustry.org/) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,700 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision-makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.
Media Contacts:
Andy Cutler
VP, Communications
ASIS International
andy.cutler@asisonline.org
703-518-1415
Kara Klein
Associate Director, Marketing and Media Relations
Security Industry Association
kklein@securityindustry.org
301-804-4704
- Published in Press Release
2026 Security LeadHER Program to Advance, Connect and Empower Women in Security
ASIS International and the Security Industry Association bring the landmark gathering to Minneapolis, Minnesota, June 15–16
ALEXANDRIA, Va./SILVER SPRING, Md.—ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA)—the leading membership associations for the security industry—have announced the 2026 agenda and speaker lineup for Security LeadHER, a special event dedicated to advancing, connecting and empowering women in the security profession. The fourth annual Security LeadHER conference will be held Monday, June 15–Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the Hilton Minneapolis in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“This year’s Security LeadHER lineup and overall program is nothing short of exceptional,” said Candice Aragon, SIA Women in Security Forum chair and chief experience officer at PSA. “We’ve brought together an incredible group of leaders, innovators and changemakers who are shaping the future of security in real time. But beyond the content, what makes Security LeadHER so powerful is the community; it’s a place where women in our industry find connection, support and a true sense of belonging.”
Security LeadHER was born from a bold vision—to ignite change and build a more inclusive, empowered and forward-thinking security community. It’s more than just an event—it’s a movement. Through powerful keynotes, dynamic networking and intimate breakout sessions, Security LeadHER creates space for real connection, fresh thinking and transformative growth.
“Security LeadHER is a reflection of where the industry is headed. Women are leading at every level of security, and this event brings together those voices to share insight, drive innovation, and strengthen the profession,” said Rachael Paskvan, chair of the ASIS Women in Security community and founder of Femme Force. “Through this partnership, we are not only amplifying women’s leadership, but also helping define the future of security.”
This year’s Security LeadHER conference includes three dynamic keynote presentations:
- In the kickoff keynote on June 15, organizational psychologist Alison Fragale, Ph.D., will draw from her bestselling book Likeable Badass to unpack the science of status and demonstrate that it is critical for both life satisfaction and career success. Reframing women’s age-old struggles through a new lens, Fragale will share why, on average, women have less status than men, how it holds them back from achieving the power they deserve and most importantly, what they can do about it.
- In the morning keynote on June 16, Minda Harts—workplace consultant and bestselling author of Talk to Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace—will blend her proven self-advocacy strategies with her Seven Trust Languages framework to help professionals strengthen self-trust, communicate their value with confidence and navigate high-stakes moments at work with clarity.
- In a closing keynote panel on June 16, women leaders in security will share their candid career journeys, highlighting the pivotal role that sponsorship and allyship have played in their professional growth. This session—moderated by Karen Frank, managing director and head of firm safety and security services at KPMG US, and featuring Kim Fearno, regional vice president at Convergint; Emy Johnson, vice president and chief security officer, security and business continuity at Allina Health; and Alaina Meyer, president of scDataCom—explores the people who made a difference by actively advocating for their success—opening doors, amplifying voices and challenging barriers along the way.
Additional agenda highlights include:
- Optional preconference tours of the Mall of America security, Axis Experience Center and Target Corporate Command Center
- Peer-to-peer roundtable discussions on executive presence, nonlinear career paths in security, leading in a male-dominated industry, women in executive protection, personal branding, workforce development and college outreach to grow the security talent pipeline
- Breakout sessions on leading across generations in the age of artificial intelligence, strategic career navigation for women in security, how women in security can get seen, social engineering and mastering hard conversations in the security industry
- A lively networking reception and happy hour at Mosaic on the evening of June 15
- Expert-led general sessions on elevating women’s careers in security, leading with influence and adjusting to shifting organizational and workplace conditions
- And more!
Security LeadHER 2026 is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Premier Sponsors Amazon, Apple and HID; Executive Sponsors Allegion, Axis Communications, Boon Edam, M.C. Dean, Salto, Securitas, Securitas Technology, Verkada and Wesco; and Partner Sponsors Genetec, GSA Schedules, Hanwha Vision, Inter-Con Security, Johnson Controls, Resolver, SAGE Integration and ZBeta.
Registration is open for the 2026 Security LeadHER conference, and ASIS and SIA members save $200 on registration. Attendees can also access a discounted rate at the conference hotel, the Hilton Minneapolis. Space for this one-of-a-kind event is limited, and it has sold out every year! To learn more about Security LeadHER 2026, view the full conference lineup, learn how your organization can support the event and save your seat, visit securityleadher.org.
About ASIS International
Founded in 1955, ASIS International is the world’s largest membership organization for security management professionals. With 34,000 members hundreds of chapters across the globe, ASIS is recognized as the premier source for learning, networking, standards, and research. Through its board certifications, award-winning Security Management magazine, and Global Security Exchange (GSX) – the most influential event in the profession – ASIS ensures its members and the security community have access to the intelligence and resources necessary to protect their people, property, and information assets.
About SIA
SIA is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,700 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision-makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.
- Published in Blog
Security LeadHER Opens Call for Speakers and Registration for 2026 Event
The 2026 Security LeadHER event, hosted by SIA and ASIS and created to advance, connect and empower women in security, will gather hundreds of industry leaders June 15–16 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
ALEXANDRIA, Va., and SILVER SPRING, Md. – ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA)—the leading membership associations for the security industry—have announced details for the 2026 Security LeadHER conference, a special event dedicated to advancing, connecting and empowering women in the security profession. The fourth annual Security LeadHER conference will be held Monday, June 15–Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the Hilton Minneapolis in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Born of a need to effect change and create a more enriching and inclusive security community, Security LeadHER offers impactful keynotes, lively networking, small group breakouts and many opportunities to help each attendee develop their security leadership skills and grow their tribe.
Security LeadHER is seeking engaging, informative and motivational speakers and sessions for the 2026 conference. Session proposals are wanted on topics such as:
- Strategies for Career Growth and Advancement/Gendered Norms of Leadership
- Negotiation Tactics/Promotions/Selling Your Ideas to Leadership
- Becoming a Leader/Navigating Your Career/Job Transitions
- Inspiring Change/Leading by Influence/Managing Up
- Effective Communication/Managing Workplace Relationships
- Work-Life Balance/Personal Wellness/Parenting and Caregiving
- Dealing With Bias/Managing Conflict
- Recruiting Next-Gen Women Leaders/Retaining Talent
“Security LeadHER has quickly become one of the most energizing and impactful events in our industry, and this year’s program will raise the bar once again,” said Candice Aragon, chair of SIA’s Women in Security Forum community. “We invite security professionals to submit their session proposals, not only to share their expertise, but to help shape the conversations that will drive our industry forward. From leadership development and emerging technologies to culture, resilience and the future workforce, the topics we’re tackling matter deeply. We invite you to share your knowledge that will help us advance, connect and empower women in security.”
“The voices and experiences of women in security are invaluable, and Security LeadHER provides the platform to amplify them,” stated Rachael Paskvan, chair of the ASIS Women in Security Community. “We’re looking for speakers who are ready to share real challenges, practical strategies and insights. Navigating leadership is never easy, but interconnected communities, such as Security LeadHER, that share knowledge and experiences are better equipped to address complex challenges.”
Speaking proposals are due Jan. 31; learn more and share your idea here.
Security LeadHER welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and genders. If you support our mission of advancing women in the global security industry, then this event is for you!
Registration is now open for the Security LeadHER 2026 conference. If you register by Dec. 31, 2025, you’ll lock in your ticket at the 2025 rate before 2026 pricing takes effect. Plus, if you register using your SIA or ASIS member code, you’ll save an additional $200 on the 2026 event! Attendees can also access a discounted rate at the conference hotel, the Hilton Minneapolis. Space for this one-of-a-kind event is limited, and we expect to sell out again in 2026! To learn more about Security LeadHER, sign up for event updates, learn how your organization can support the conference and save your seat, please visit the event website.
About ASIS International
Founded in 1955, ASIS International is the world’s largest membership organization for security management professionals. With 34,000 members hundreds of chapters across the globe, ASIS is recognized as the premier source for learning, networking, standards, and research. Through its board certifications, award-winning Security Management magazine, and Global Security Exchange (GSX) – the most influential event in the profession – ASIS ensures its members and the security community have access to the intelligence and resources necessary to protect their people, property, and information assets.
About SIA
SIA is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,600 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.
- Published in Blog