Women’s History Month and CAA WISE

Women’s History Month, celebrated annually in March, is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the achievements, contributions, and history of women throughout the world. It aims to highlight women’s accomplishments in various fields, from science and literature to politics and arts. The month also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need to address historical and contemporary challenges faced by women. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the progress made while acknowledging the work still needed to ensure equal opportunities and representation for women in all aspects of society.

The National Women’s History Month’s theme for 2024 celebrates “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” The theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions. Women from every background have long realized that an uneven playing field will never bring equality or justice. Many feel the critical need to speak up and work harder for fairness in our institutions and social interactions.

The security sector is experiencing a transformative shift towards inclusivity and gender equality, thanks to the efforts of various leaders and industry groups nationwide. One such fast-growing organization making a significant impact is Women In the Security Evolution (WISE), a CAA-based group dedicated to supporting, empowering, and promoting women across all disciplines within the security industry.

In alignment with the spirit of Women’s History Month, WISE operates with a focused mission built on four key pillars: enhancing equality, visibility, accessibility, and inclusivity for women in the electronic security industry.

They aim to ensure gender neutrality for all members to participate actively. The group’s initiatives include mentorship programs, coaching sessions, increased presence at industry events, media visibility, and regular professional meetings, all aimed at driving positive change for women in the security sector. WISE is a shining beacon of empowerment and progress in the evolving security industry and mirrors the 2024 theme of Women’s History Month by championing inclusivity, equity, and diversity within the security industry.

WISE places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, encouraging the active involvement of male colleagues to support the advancement of women in the industry. They also prioritize equity by engaging individuals at all levels of security roles to ensure equality among peers and promote diversity by welcoming all who are currently part of, or interested in joining, the security industry.

WISE is not just talking about change; they are actively driving it. With their ongoing efforts, the future for women in security appears brighter than ever. The group’s dedication to elevating the role of women in security is impressive, with representation from leaders of over 45 organizations. You can find upcoming events, membership details, and valuable articles and press releases on the CAA website. WISE maintains a strong presence on social media platforms, including the LinkedIn WISE page, which will be highlighting exceptional women throughout Women’s History Month. Mark your calendars for WISE’s prominent presence at ISC West in Las Vegas from April 9th to 12th, 2024, and at the CAA summer convention in Palm Springs from May 15th to 18th, 2024. Together, WISE is driving their mission of empowerment and progress in the security industry.

For additional information or membership on WISE, please contact CAA WISE Chair, Cathy Rempel at crempel@americansecurity.us.