Security Tech Talk

Investing in Expertise: The Strategic Value of Education for Security Professionals

Markus Lai joins Steve in-studio in Lund, Sweden to explore the significance of education and professional development in the security technology industry. As the Regional Manager Engineering & Training - Northern Europe, Markus discusses various learning styles, the importance of certifications, and the role of employers in facilitating continuous learning. Steve and Markus also highlight the value of vendor training and the need for adaptable learning methods to meet individual needs. The discussion emphasizes that education is not just a personal benefit but also enhances the overall quality and competence within the industry.    About our guest:  Markus Lai  has been a part of the Axis Northern Europe sales team since 2011. Acting as a part of a team of trusted advisors within the engineering team he has worked with partners and customers in various roles throughout his time at Axis. Today he is Regional Manager Engineering & Training Northern Europe. Previous to joining Axis, Markus worked with software and hardware development within segments such as CNI, Industry and Telecommunications.   Connect with Markus on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/markus-lai-a0055312/]  Chapters:  (03:00) - The Value of Education and Certifications  This chapter explores how education and certifications serve as key differentiators in career advancement and provide external validation and credibility.   (09:00) - Vendor-Led Training and Its Benefits  The discussion highlights the insights and innovations that vendor-led training can offer, emphasizing its role in continuous professional development.  (15:00) - Adapting Learning Methods  The conversation shifts to the need for adaptable learning methods that cater to individual needs and preferences, ensuring effective knowledge acquisition.  (21:00) - Industry Regulations and Continuous Learning  This section covers the impact of industry regulations on the necessity for ongoing education and how it ensures compliance and up-to-date knowledge.    Resources:  Learn more about Axis Communications Academy [https://www.emea-comms.axis.com/academy-northerneurope]  Get info on AXIS Plugin for Autodesk® Revit® [https://www.axis.com/support/tools/axis-plugin-for-autodesk-revit]and Axis Site Designer [https://www.axis.com/support/tools/axis-site-designer] - but also the AXIS Tool Set for Bluebeam® Revu® [https://www.axis.com/support/tools/axis-tool-set-for-bluebeam-revu]  Get more info on ASIS Education for Security Professionals [https://www.asisonline.org/professional-development/education/], including PSP [https://www.asisonline.org/certification/physical-security-professional/] and CPP [https://www.asisonline.org/certification/certified-protection-professional-cpp/] certifications  Learn more about BICSI  [https://www.bicsi.org/]  Read up on the Saudi Council of Engineers [https://www.saudieng.sa/English/pages/default.aspx]    Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).   Connect with Steve on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenadamkenny/?originalSubdomain=ae]  More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.   Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.  Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world  https://www.axis.com/ [https://www.axis.com/]  Mentioned in this episode: After a quick holiday break - more Security Tech Talk is on the way!

PropTech Revolution: How Technology is Reshaping Commercial Real Estate

In this episode of Security Tech Talk, commercial real estate and marketing expert Sienna Cacan delves into the transformative post-pandemic shifts in commercial real estate. She and Steve talk about how the growing demand for high-quality office spaces and advancements in PropTech are reshaping the industry. Sienna shares her expertise on the critical integration of technology and sustainability, highlighting the role of IoT and ESG compliance in creating smarter urban landscapes.   About our guest:  With 10+ years’ experience in marketing in both B2C and B2B, Sienna has been working with strategic global marketing and demand creation at Axis Communications for the last six years. She is responsible for the Technology & IT and Commercial Real Estate verticals and is focused on end customers and key partners when driving segment growth.    Connect with Sienna on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sienna-cacan-b5716a19/]  Chapters:  (0:00:00) - Commercial Real Estate Trends and Innovations  Explore the post-pandemic evolution of commercial real estate, highlighting the growing divide between Class A and lower-tier buildings and the importance of balancing physical office presence with flexible work arrangements.  (0:14:07) - Emerging Trends in PropTech Industry  Sienna educates Steve on the burgeoning PropTech sector, emphasizing advancements in AI, green building innovations, and the importance of breaking silos with open standards amidst evolving tenant expectations.  (0:21:53) - Maximizing Efficiency in Commercial Real Estate  Steve and Sienna focus on the critical integration of cybersecurity from the design phase in smart buildings to achieve cost savings and efficiency, underscoring the necessity of interoperability and standard compliance.    Resources:  Read more about WeWork office spaces [https://www.wework.com/] worldwide  Get info on the European Council’s ESG Compliance [https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/11/19/environmental-social-and-governance-esg-ratings-council-greenlights-new-regulation/] Regulations  See information on Smart Spaces [https://www.smartspaces.app/about/] and PropTech innovation  Listen to the episodes Steve mentioned:  Episode with Dan Drogman from Smart Spaces [https://securitytechtalk.captivate.fm/episode/revolutionizing-smart-building-solutions-from-integration-challenges-to-ai-driven-security]  Episode with Mike Gillespie from Advent IM [https://securitytechtalk.captivate.fm/episode/legislation-meets-reality-in-cybersecurity]     Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).   Connect with Steve on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenadamkenny/?originalSubdomain=ae]  More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.   Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.  Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world  https://www.axis.com/ [https://www.axis.com/]  Mentioned in this episode: After a quick holiday break - more Security Tech Talk is on the way!

Beyond Green: How Legislation Is Driving Ethical and Sustainable Design in Security Tech

In this episode of Security Tech Talk, Steve is joined by Kieran Byrne, A&E Manager at Axis Communications, for a deep and practical conversation about sustainability, total cost of ownership, and the evolving legislative landscape shaping the security industry. Kieran and Steve discuss how sustainability has evolved beyond “green initiatives” into a broader commitment to ethics, human rights, and corporate responsibility — and how new European directives are making compliance a business-critical priority. Together, they unpack how smart building design, interoperability, and energy-conscious technology choices can help organizations meet their sustainability targets while reducing operational costs.  About Our Guest:  Kieran Byrne is a dedicated technologist specialising in IP-based solutions and innovations for security and video surveillance, focused on enhancing security and optimising business performance. Leading the Architecture & Engineering (A&E) Program for Axis Communications in the UK and Ireland, Kieran supports consultants and specifiers in developing world-leading security designs. He is also an active contributor to industry associations, including the UK and Ireland chapters of ASIS International.  Connect with Kieran on LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/in/kieran-byrne?originalSubdomain=uk]  Chapters  (0:00:00) – Introducing Sustainability in Security  Steve welcomes Kieran and sets the stage for a conversation on sustainability, total cost of ownership, and legislation driving change in the security and smart building sectors.  (0:05:00) – Beyond “Green”: What Sustainability Really Means  Kieran explains how sustainability extends beyond environmental issues to include ethics, human rights, and responsible sourcing — referencing key global examples like the Rana Plaza disaster.  (0:10:30) – Legislation, Compliance, and Accountability  The conversation dives into new regulatory frameworks like the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D), emphasizing how compliance now affects entire supply chains and organizational accountability.  (0:20:45) – Energy Efficiency and Total Cost of Ownership  Using real-world examples, Kieran highlights how comparing device energy consumption can uncover massive long-term cost savings — supported by Axis’s new Total Cost of Ownership Calculator within Site Designer.  (0:38:00) – Education and Empowerment: Taking the Next Step  Kieran shares his reflections on personal learning, encouraging professionals to educate themselves on sustainability and take small, measurable actions that lead to meaningful industry change.  Resources  Learn more about the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) [https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/doing-business-eu/sustainability-due-diligence-responsible-business/corporate-sustainability-due-diligence_en]  Explore the BREEAM Building Certification Framework [https://breeam.com/]  Try the Axis Total Cost of Ownership Calculator in Site Designer  [https://sitedesigner.axis.com/]  Read about EcoVadis Sustainability Ratings [https://index.ecovadis.com/]  Hear interviews with other guests mentioned in this episode:   Revolutionizing Smart Building Solutions: From Integration Challenges to AI-Driven Security [https://securitytechtalk.captivate.fm/episode/revolutionizing-smart-building-solutions-from-integration-challenges-to-ai-driven-security] with Dan Drogman from Smart Spaces [https://www.smartspaces.app/about/]  Legislation Meets Reality in Cybersecurity [https://securitytechtalk.captivate.fm/episode/legislation-meets-reality-in-cybersecurity] with Mike Gillespie from Advent IM [https://www.advent-im.co.uk/]  Sustainable Surveillance: The Role of Optimized Storage [https://securitytechtalk.captivate.fm/episode/ben-yoxall] with BenYoxall from SecureLogiq [https://securelogiq.com/]  Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).   Connect with Steve on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenadamkenny/?originalSubdomain=ae]    More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.   Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.  Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world: https://www.axis.com/ [https://www.axis.com/]  Mentioned in this episode: After a quick holiday break - more Security Tech Talk is on the way!

The Digital Gold Rush: AI and the Future of Data Centres

Peter Dempsey, a seasoned expert in the security industry with over 30 years of experience, joins Security Tech Talk to discuss the rapid evolution of the data centre market, driven largely by advancements in AI and the increasing demand for digital infrastructure. Peter and Steve’s conversation covers the challenges of power supply, the importance of data sovereignty, and the shift towards second-tier countries for data centre investments. They also delve into the security challenges faced by data centres and the innovative technologies being implemented to address these issues.  About our guest: Peter Dempsey has spent 25+ years in the security sector undertaking various roles of being responsibility for key elements of mission critical projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last, three years Peter has focused his attentions on how security technologies best support a business’s security strategy, whilst driving the adoption and elevating the importance of cybersecurity and emerging technologies for physical security practitioners in the Data Centers. Peter’s passion for the industry can be traced back to the huge success in Ireland with Hyper Scale and Multi-Tenant Data Centre (MTDC) deployments over the last number of years. Connect with Peter on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-dempsey-36a42314/] Chapters: 0:00 - The Digital Gold Rush: Transforming Data Centers Steve and Peter talk about the exponential growth of data centers fueled by AI advancements, highlighting the shift from traditional data centers to high-demand "AI factories" and the substantial investments reshaping the digital infrastructure landscape. 12:35 - AI's Architectural Mastery and Market Expansion Focusing on AI's groundbreaking capabilities in designing complex structures, this chapter examines the rapid technological advancements and emerging opportunities in the EMEA market, with a spotlight on countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia as burgeoning digital hubs. 25:20 - Revolutionizing Data Center Security and Compliance Steve and Peter explore the evolving landscape of data center security, detailing the stringent compliance measures and due diligence undertaken by hyperscale companies to ensure robust protection and operational maturity amidst new regulatory challenges. 38:45 - Navigating the Power Challenge: Infrastructure and Innovation Addressing the critical issue of power consumption in data centers, this chapter discusses the innovative solutions and strategic decisions being made to accommodate increasing demands, including the importance of power availability and cost in selecting new data center locations. 52:10 - Harnessing Smart Technologies for Enhanced Efficiency Highlighting the integration of advanced smart sensors and IoT devices, this chapter illustrates how data centers are leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency, monitor environmental factors, and optimize power usage for sustainable growth. Resources: Read the European Commission’s NIS2 Directive [https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/nis2-directive] and the Critical Entities Resilience Directive [https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/news/critical-entities-resilience-directive-enters-application-ensure-protection-critical-infrastructure-2024-10-23_en] Get more information on SIRA (Security Industries Regulatory Agency) [https://www.sira.gov.ae/en/home.aspx] in Dubai Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group). Connect with Steve on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenadamkenny/?originalSubdomain=ae] More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.  Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden. Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world https://www.axis.com/ [https://www.axis.com/] Mentioned in this episode: After a quick holiday break - more Security Tech Talk is on the way!

Transforming Security: The Rise of Hybrid Solutions and Ethical AI

Steve and Axis’ David Needham delve into the evolution of security technology and discuss Axis' innovative “Power of One” campaign is reshaping the landscape with seamless tech integration and hybrid security solutions. We'll explore the growing demand for holistic security approaches, the benefits of cloud solutions, and the integration of hybrid systems that enhance cybersecurity and operational efficiency. David shares his unique perspective on the transformative potential of IP video technology, the ethical use of AI, and the expansive applications of modern surveillance systems. From business intelligence to body-worn cameras, learn how these advancements are revolutionizing security and enhancing worker safety. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed about the dynamic future of security technology. About our guest: David Needham is Axis Communications' UK & Ireland Sales manager. With over a decade of experience, he has significantly influenced Axis' strategy, especially through the Power of One campaign. His engineering and sales background gives him a unique view on integrating new technologies into solutions. David promotes the integration of hybrid and cloud solutions, balancing open ecosystems with comprehensive portfolios. He highlights the benefits of ethical AI and IP video technology for security and operational efficiency. Connect with David on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-needham-4b37482a/?originalSubdomain=uk] Chapters: Introduction and Power of One (0:00:06) David Needham discusses Axis Communications' Power of One campaign, highlighting its impact on end-to-end portfolio integration and open ecosystems in the security industry. Hybrid and Cloud Security Solutions (0:09:56) A dive into the sophistication of hybrid systems, emphasizing their role in enhancing cybersecurity through cloud-managed services and the integration of diverse technologies. Advanced Surveillance and Business Intelligence (0:14:48) Exploring the potential of modern surveillance technology in improving operational efficiency and business intelligence through features like free-text search and body-worn cameras. EN54 Compliance and Open Standards (0:23:28) A discussion on the relevance of EN54 compliance in audio systems and the importance of open standards and interoperability for flexible, end-to-end security solutions. Closing Remarks (0:35:24) The episode concludes with reflections on the engaging conversation and an invitation for listeners to explore more episodes to stay informed about security technology innovations. Resources: Learn more about EN54 Compliance [https://www.fia.uk.com/resources/british-standards/bs-en-54-series-fire-detection-alarm-systems.html]  Learn more about Axis End to End Solutions [https://www.axis.com/solutions/end-to-end-solutions] Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group). Connect with Steve on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenadamkenny/?originalSubdomain=ae] More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.  Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden. Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world https://www.axis.com/ [https://www.axis.com/] Mentioned in this episode: After a quick holiday break - more Security Tech Talk is on the way!