How to Use Technology to Protect Special Events & Sporting Venues
Discover how cutting-edge technology—from AI and drones to real-time data—can transform security at special events and sporting venues in this expert-led live webinar.
October 08, 2025
5:00 PM UTC
1 hour
Sponsored by
This webinar was originally held on October 8, 2025 and is now available for on demand viewing.
This live webinar explores technology's crucial role in safeguarding special events and sporting venues. Industry experts will discuss the latest advancements in security systems, such as surveillance, access control, and crowd management tools, highlighting how these technologies can prevent incidents, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure the safety of attendees. The web event also covers integration strategies for using AI, drones, and real-time data analysis to address emerging threats, improve response times, and provide proactive risk management. Attendees will gain actionable insights on adopting a layered security approach that incorporates physical and digital tools, preparing security teams to respond effectively to any situation. Best practices for planning, coordination, and training will also be shared to maximize the potential of security technology at large-scale events.
Webinar Discussion Points:
Overview of critical security challenges at special events and sporting venues.
How surveillance systems, access control, and AI-powered tools work together to enhance safety.
Leveraging drones and real-time data analytics for crowd management and threat detection.
Integrating physical and digital security measures for a comprehensive approach.
Best practices for training security personnel and responding to emergencies effectively.
Speaker
Dr. Lou Marciani
Director and Co-Founder
Innovation Institute for Fan Experience (IIFX)
Dr. Lou Marciani is the Director and Co-Founder of the Innovation Institute for Fan Experience (IIFX), a global alliance advancing safety, security, and service in sports and entertainment. He pioneered the FANCENTRIC concept, creating immersive, memory-making experiences across the fan journey, and spearheaded initiatives such as the FANCENTRIC International Conference & Expo, TECH Expo, and the Xperience Consortium.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Marciani co-chaired the national Return to Work, Play, and Spectate Task Force, leading 98 experts in shaping reopening principles for sports and entertainment. Under his guidance, IIFX published critical playbooks and technology frameworks to optimize fan safety and venue operations.
Previously, Dr. Marciani served as the founding director of the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) at the University of Southern Mississippi, transforming it into an international leader in safety research, training, and industry best practices. He also held senior roles in collegiate athletics and with the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Darren F. Johnson
Senior Director of Safety & Security
Detroit Lions and Ford Field
Darren F. Johnson is in his 11th year as Senior Director of Safety & Security for the Detroit Lions and Ford Field, following a 27-year career with the Detroit Police Department and the DEA. Since joining the Lions in 2014, he has led a comprehensive overhaul of stadium security, including executive protection, advanced screening and detection technologies, enhanced CCTV systems, unscalable fencing, social media monitoring, and the development of both a modern Command Center and an Integrated Operations Center in line with NFL best practices. He also established the Ford Field First Responder Coalition, partnering with local, state, and federal agencies to strengthen emergency preparedness.
Darren holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration from Wayne State University and an M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership & Intelligence from Madonna University. He serves on the NFL and NCS4 Advisory Committees, Detroit Crime Commission Board, and is a sworn Wayne County Sheriff Special Deputy.
Joe Coomer
Vice President of Security
AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE)
Joe Coomer is Vice President of Security for AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE), overseeing security for the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium. He manages daily security operations, law enforcement, medical services, mega-event planning, and compliance with NFL Best Practices and the NFL Code of Fan Conduct.
Previously, Coomer led security at University of Phoenix Stadium (2008–2015) and the Indiana Convention Center/RCA Dome-Lucas Oil Stadium. He has received multiple National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) Facility of Merit Awards, the 2015 Industry Leader Under 40 award, and co-led FEMA’s Community Vaccination Center at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2021. He also secured DHS Safety Act protection for both Mercedes-Benz and University of Phoenix Stadium.
Coomer holds a B.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University and is a Certified Sports Security Professional (CSSP). He serves on NFL and MLS security committees and speaks globally on stadium security.
Mike Arnold
ATD Sales Manager
Acoem
As US Sales Manager for ATD and Security Solutions at Acoem, Mike Arnold is a seasoned leader with over 15 years of expertise in delivering advanced technology solutions. He has played a pivotal role as an Executive Sales Team Leader and Account Manager, successfully addressing the complex needs of clients within Acoem's Industrial Maintenance and Security Solutions divisions.
Mike spearheaded the groundbreaking launch of Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) technology in the US, a critical initiative stemming from Acoem's Military Defense division, MetraVib. His deep technical acumen spans a wide array of Acoem solutions, providing crucial monitoring, public safety and protection in industries ranging from manufacturing to critical infrastructure. Mike lives in Covington, LA, with his wife and two children.
Jason Bryan
Director of Sales, Pro Sports, Stadiums and Higher Ed
Alcatraz
Jason Bryan brings 20+ years of experience in the Physical Security industry with a passion for bringing new, innovative technology forward. After graduating from the School of Technology at Purdue University, Jason started his career as a Project Engineer as well as a Project Engineering Manager bringing highly secure and fully integrated solutions into the Corrections industry. As a Director of Sales for Alcatraz, Jason has extensive experience working with professional sports and higher ed organizations to help them elevate their physical security with touchless authentication that prevents tailgating and piggybacking. Prior to his work at Alcatraz, he served as Director of Sales for 3xLOGIC and PACOM North America. There he led a sales team with focus on VMS, Access Control, and Intrusion integration with both traditional on prem offerings as well as Cloud hosted solutions. Previously, Jason held a GM role with STANLEY Security with focus on strategic product launches in key markets including biometrics and Sonitrol audio and video alarm verification.
