Security LeadHER draws 500 attendees to Minneapolis event

MINNEAPOLIS—Security LeadHER, presented by ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA), brought approximately 500 security professionals to Minneapolis June 15–16, with attendance up about 10% compared with 2025. 

The event, focused on advancing women in the security industry, drew participants from 40 states and 11 countries. 

“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. 

Candice Aragon, chair of the SIA Women in Security Forum and chief experience officer at PSA, said that the event continues to expand its reach and impact across the industry. 

“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,” she said. “We are proud to see this community growing and grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year’s conference our most impactful yet.” 

The program included keynote presentations from Alison Fragale, Ph.D., a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill professor, and workplace equity expert and author Minda Harts, who addressed topics including leadership, communication and career advancement. 

Attendees also participated in tours of the Target Corporate Command Center and security operations at the Mall of America, where they were shown large-scale monitoring and security management practices. 

The next Security LeadHER conference is scheduled for June 14–15, 2027, in Austin, Texas. 

Related reading:

• SIA names 2026 Women in Security Forum Power 100 honorees

Photo courtesy of SIA Women in Security Forum