The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) today announced that Chicago will host the National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) from June 29 – July 2, 2020 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker. It’s the first time Chicago will host the annual event, which is being held in partnership with the National Homeland Security Association, a trade organization for the emergency management industry.

The conference is expected to bring together more than 1,500 security, law enforcement, fire and emergency management professionals, nonprofit agencies, business owners, universities and decision makers to learn about the latest trends in national security. Attendees will also learn about new equipment and technology available to support safety missions in major metropolitan areas, which are largely funded through federal preparedness grants established for planning, training, exercises and equipment in the wake of the attacks on September 11, 2001.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities here in Chicago, while sharing and learning about best practices to keep our city safe and secure,” said Rich Guidice, Executive Director of the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC). “The collaboration and coordination that occurs among our public safety and law enforcement partners on all levels is an excellent example of what it takes to strengthen the security posture of a major metropolitan city.”

The four-day conference will focus on emergency response disciplines at all levels of government and feature panel discussions, lessons learned and cutting-edge technology demonstrations. Security leaders and subject matter experts in the public and private sectors will have the opportunity to share critical information and new project initiatives.

In addition, subject matter experts and procurement representatives will have the opportunity to meet with vendors to explore new solutions and discuss case uses with colleagues nationwide.

Throughout the week, Chicago will have a chance to showcase its public safety assets and innovative programs, while simultaneously offering attendees a chance to extend their visit.

As part of the announcement, a video featuring Chicago OEMC Executive Director Rich Guidice, Chicago Police First Deputy Superintendent Anthony Riccio and Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Richard Ford II is posted to the event website to promote the 2020 NHSC in Chicago to industry professionals and to encourage attendees to extend their stay in Chicago in connection with the conference.

The video and event information, including sponsorship and vendor registration, can be found on the Chicago 2020 NHSC site at https://www.choosechicago.com/nhsc2020/.

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About the National Homeland Security Association:
The National Homeland Security Association sponsors the National Homeland Security Conference. The Conference is the annual meeting of local Homeland Security and emergency management professionals from the nation’s largest metropolitan areas. Previous host cities include New York City, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Francisco, Philadelphia, San Antonio, Tampa and Phoenix, among others.