Navigating Workplace Weather: Becoming a Transition Tactician
Change is as constant as the weather, yet while we naturally adjust our clothing, plans and mindset to shifting conditions outside, adapting to change in the workplace often feels far more daunting. Organizations evolve, roles expand and technology advances at a rapid pace, making adaptability an essential professional capability rather than a nice-to-have skill.
This session explores how to strengthen adaptability by reframing change as an opportunity instead of an obstacle. Led by a panel of four women in the security industry, the discussion blends personal experiences, practical strategies and lessons learned from navigating major professional transitions. Attendees will gain insight into becoming “transition tacticians,” individuals who can anticipate, interpret and respond effectively to shifting workplace demands.
In addition to the panel conversation, attendees will participate in interactive group exercises that begin with exploring their own current change scenario. By the end of the session, participants will work with their table groups to identify practical strategies and approaches for “weathering” that change with clarity and confidence.
The session will address common barriers to adaptability, methods for maintaining resilience, and strategies for leading others through transition. Whether facing new technologies, evolving team dynamics or organizational shifts, participants will leave with actionable tools to navigate change with intention and skill, just as naturally as adjusting to the weather.
Participants will learn to:
- Apply practical change management techniques to remain effective agile during periods of change
- Explore change from multiple perspectives to guide decision making and optimize outcomes
- Leverage transitions as opportunities for personal and professional growth
Speakers
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Jenna HardieDirector of Marketing and PR
HiveWatchJenna is the director of marketing and PR at HiveWatch, a leading security operations software company, where she shapes strategic communications, brand storytelling, and go-to-market initiatives for physical security and global security operations center solutions. With more than a decade of experience in marketing, communications and industry engagement, Hardie is a recognized voice in the security community and a three-time SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100 honoree. She serves on the Women in Security Forum Steering Committee and co-chairs the IlluminateHER Subcommittee, driving mentorship, inclusion and visibility for women in the security industry. Her work blends creativity, strategy and industry fluency to elevate both brand and career impact.
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Emma BarkleySenior Manager of Strategic Sales, North America
JCI Security ProductsEmma Barkley is JCI Security Products’ senior manager of strategic sales for North America, leading a team that supports security consultants and architecture and engineering firms across the U.S. and Canada. Her career includes a successful progression from individual contributor to team leader, giving her firsthand experience navigating shifting corporate structures, evolving roles and growing leadership expectations. She has over 14 years of experience in the security industry with expertise in access and video solutions.
Barkley is involved in industry engagement through the SIA Women in Security Forum (WISF) Steering Committee and is co-chair of the WISF NavigateHER Subcommittee. She is committed to helping others navigate career growth while continuing to learn and grow in her own leadership journey
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Tracy LarsonPresident and Founding Partner
WeSuiteTracy Larson is president and founding partner of WeSuite, a sales management software which automates the sales workflow for businesses selling labor, parts and services. A graduate of Cornell University, Larson has career highlights featuring strong experience in operations, sales, systems integration and facilities management, with roles including vice president of worldwide real estate and facilities for Computer Associates, president of ITG Larson Inc., chief operating officer for Antar-Com and vice president of sales for Diebold Electronic Security Systems. She has served on the SIA Women in Security Forum Steering Committee for six years and led initiatives to support women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.
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Shawn RuddoChief Technology Officer
Tech SystemsShawn Ruddo brings 25 years of experience to her role as the chief technology officer for Tech Systems, Inc. (TSi)
Ruddo started her career in information technology, responsible for hardware, software, networking and support services, prior to crossing over into the security industry, where she worked in both manufacturing and system integration. She has diverse expertise in system design and engineering, program management and customer support for enterprise-level clients.
Ruddo leads the technology strategy and innovation initiatives that drive Tech Systems’ continued growth and success. Her work is pivotal to shaping the company’s technological landscape to meet both current and future needs.
Ruddo’s unique blend of technical expertise, leadership skills and client-focused solutions will make her a key driver of TSi’s mission to stay ahead of security trends while maintaining a strong focus on customer-centric innovation.