Skills for Security supports launch of Next Gen Network

Nineteen Group’s Safety and Security Event Series encompasses The Security Event, The Fire Safety Event, the National Cyber Security Show, The Workplace Event, The Health and Safety Event and Pro Integration Future Europe, with the shows running at the NEC in Birmingham from 28-30 April.

For its part, 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, 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.

Nathan Stovell, senior marketing manager at Nineteen Group, commented: “As the security industry continues to face skills shortages, the need to attract, retain and develop new entrants has become increasingly pressing. We launched the Next Gen Network to address this issue and create an environment that helps young professionals to reach their potential with dedicated industry support.”

Stovell added: “Ambassadors such as Skills for Security are critical to the success of the Next Gen Network and will play an important role in helping to build a workforce that’s resilient, capable and prepared for the future.”

Stronger alignment

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 to inform future event programming, content themes and community initiatives across the Safety and Security Event Series, thereby ensuring that it continues to reflect the ongoing needs of a modern and evolving workforce.

Clear direction

David Scott, managing director at Skills for Security, explained: “It’s great to be involved in the Next Gen Network and support an initiative that’s focused on giving early career professionals clear direction within our industry.”

Scott concluded: “Creating opportunities for a new way in which to champion talent and encourage connection, learning and better understanding of the wider sector at this stage of their career is essential. We’re looking forward to the Next Gen Network’s official launch and using our position to support and shape its future direction.”

*Further information is available online at www.skills4security.com and www.thesecurityevent.co.uk