A post by Skills for Security.
Skills for Security is supporting the Safety & Security Event Series’ newly launched Next Gen Network, recognising the initiative as a valuable platform for early-career professionals working across the security, safety, workplace and integration sectors.
The Next Gen Network has been created to give emerging talent a stronger and more visible voice within the industry.
Designed to run across the 2026 exhibition series, taking place on 28 – 30 April 2026, the initiative will provide young professionals with opportunities to engage in industry discussions, build professional networks and take a more active role in shaping conversations that affect their future careers.
Says Nathan Stovell, Senior Marketing Manager at Nineteen Group: “As the industry continues to face well-documented skills shortages, the need to attract, retain and develop new entrants has become increasingly pressing. We launched the Next Gen Network to address this and create an environment to help young professionals reach their potential with dedicated industry support. Ambassadors such as Skills for Security are critical to this success and will play an important role in building a workforce that is resilient, capable and prepared for the future.”
Beyond individual development, the Next Gen Network is intended to support stronger alignment between industry, education and professional bodies by creating a consistent point of connection for emerging talent. By bringing young professionals into closer dialogue with employers, associations and peers, the initiative helps improve understanding of career pathways, expectations and opportunities across the sector.
The network provides a mechanism for industry leaders to listen, respond and adapt to the changing priorities of the next generation. Insight gathered through ambassador engagement will help inform future event programming, content themes and community initiatives across the Safety & Security Event Series, ensuring it continues to reflect the needs of a modern, evolving workforce.
Says David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security: “It’s great to be involved in the Next Gen Network and to support an initiative that is focused on giving early-career professionals clear direction within our industry. Creating opportunities for a new way to champion talent and encouraging connection, learning and better understanding of the wider sector at this stage of their career is essential. We’re looking forward to its launch and using our position to support and shape its future direction.”
