Welcome to the Illinois Security Professionals Association® (ISPA). ISPA is a duly registered 501(c)6 Not-for-Profit organization under IRS guidelines. The organization is comprised of security professionals, law enforcement and public safety professionals who are committed to working together and promoting professional relationships within the industry.

Members can expect forums for networking opportunities, the exchange of ideas and information, professional development and legislative initiatives benefiting security professionals.

ISPA has a proud history of industry involvement and since 1961 has been the leading organization promoting cooperation between law enforcement and security organizations. Throughout the years, we have fostered collaborations with the FBI, US Secret Service, Dept. of Homeland Security, Illinois State Police, Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department, and other first responders throughout Illinois.

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Comprised of security professionals committed to working together and promoting professional
relationships within the industry.

Promoting cooperation between law enforcement and private security organizations since 1961.
EventsResourcesNews/Media

 Educational Forum Series
September 11, 2025
 

September Luncheon

Speaker: G. Michael Verden
ISPA 2nd Vice President
Owner The Lake Forest Group
Topic: The Trump Assassination Attempt: What We Learned

Description:

Description: On July 13, 2024, at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a lone gunman fired multiple shots at former President Donald J. Trump, wounding him and two others, and killing a spectator. Following this tragedy, the United States Secret Service came under heavy criticism for numerous oversights in the planning and implementation of security measures for the event. These miscalculations included, but were not limited to, pre-event briefings, technological deployments, counter surveillance, tactical assets,      post locations, interoperable radio communications,    and a multi-agency command center.                              

View program details and learning objectives:https://www.ilsecuritypros.org/i4a/calendar/?pageid=3274&showTitle=1

Pre-registration is required:click button below register. SEATING IS LIMITED!

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Join ISPA and Expand
Your Security Opportunities
 

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Get more from being an ISPA member and tap into ISPA's volunteer network!

  • Join a committee to help support and drive industry initiatives
  • Broaden your perspective
  • Network with industry colleagues and peers at industry events
  • Grow your knowledge and expertise through exceptional industry training & education

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"As a proud member of ISPA, I can attest to the immense benefits and opportunities it offers.  ISPA has not only enhanced my career but also expanded my professional network, connecting me with like-minded individuals who share a passion for advancing the security industry. The association’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge and best practices are freely exchanged makes it a valued asset for anyone serious about their role in security. Whether you are a seasoned expert or new to the field, the ISPA offers the support, education, and connections you need to enhance your career."

Michael Potter CPP
APEX3 Systems
ISPA 2024 - 2025 ISPA President
--------------------------------------------------------I joined the ISPA for a number of reasons and I want to share some of the benefits to membership. I’ll start with education. The ISPA hosts an ongoing Educational Forum Series that consists of both webinars and live speaking events. Some topics include artificial intelligence, active shooter, workplace violence, and threat assessment. As you can see, membership affords you the opportunity to stay current with innovative trends in the security industry, whether it’s an emerging threat like a pandemic or new cutting-edge technology like AI.

Another value to membership is the association’s Awards and Recognition program. Since joining the ISPA, I have received two awards and the professional satisfaction from being recognized by my peers—women and men who I respect and admire that have found me worthy of this recognition—is immeasurable. The ceremony itself is also a testament to how hard our colleagues work to protect their organizations and community and reinforces the importance of our industry.

There are also the Social Events including the monthly luncheons, annual golf outing and the end-of-the-year awards gala. These functions are great platforms for Networking, Relationship Building, and Business Development, which I believe is the greatest benefit to membership and that is the access to the professional resources of the members of the ISPA.

G. Michael Verden
The Lake Forest Group
ISPA 2nd Vice-President 2024 - 2025
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Being part of the Illinois Security Professionals Association (ISPA) has connected me with top security leaders, law enforcement, and first responders whose combined experience is unmatched.

Through ISPA’s partnerships with agencies like the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, DHS, Illinois State Police, Chicago Police and Chicago Fire Departments, plus its top level training forums has expanded my knowledge and strengthened my network.

Proud to be part of the “Voice for Security” in Illinois and to build relationships I consider truly priceless.

Ronald Vasser
Vanguard Security
ISPA Director
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DOWNLOAD ISPA MEMBERSHIP BROCHURE HERE: DOWNLOAD
 

Direct all membership related questions to ISPA at (224) 333-1622 and ask for Dennis Gano, Executive Director.

 



 


 

2025 Awards Gala
Nominations Now Being Accepted
 

2025 Nominations Now Being Accepted

AWARD NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED!

The Illinois Security Professionals Association® proudly presents their 64th Annual Awards/Honors Gala on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. The Gala is held at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel.

Submit individual nominations: 
bit.ly/4k9X2pW

Submit group nominations:
bit/ly/3TU6IcX

Individual tickets and tables of ten will become available later in the year. Please check back regularly for Gala updates.

Please direct all Awards/Honors Gala questions to Dennis Gano, ISPA Executive Director at 224-333-1622.