DETROIT— April 9 th, 2024 – Today, Becky Bixby, interim general manager for Huntington
Place/ASM Global is thrilled to unveil an innovative security training program orchestrated by
the Public Safety Director, Marlon Wilson. Bixby affirms, “Huntington Place is dedicated to
providing a secure and enjoyable experience for all our guests. Marlon’s leadership and
collaborative efforts with other Detroit Directors of Security reinforce our commitment to making
safety our top priority.” Wilson, a seasoned law enforcement professional, kickstarted his career
with the Detroit Police Department at the age of 19, inheriting a proud legacy of public service.
His extensive experience positions him to lead our security team effectively and establish a
crucial network within the city, fostering a secure environment both inside and outside the
venue.
Under Marlon Wilson’s guidance, a comprehensive training program has been introduced at
Huntington Place is designed to equip the venue’s staff with essential skills. Covering critical
areas such as First Aid, human trafficking awareness, active shooter response, and first
observer training, this initiative ensures the team is well-prepared to handle diverse situations
effectively. In partnership with the Detroit Police Department, Huntington Place is provided
Evolv Security Scanners to strengthen convention center security, exemplifying a proactive
approach to safeguarding event attendees. ASM Global’s corporate sponsorship with Evolv
further fortifies this commitment, positioning Huntington Place as a leader in comprehensive
security measures.
Wilson emphasizes the importance of not only ensuring the safety of Huntington Place but also
extending his focus to the broader safety of the city of Detroit. Actively maintaining a strong
police presence in the streets, Wilson assures police are focusing on guest safety and directing
traffic during events, contributing significantly to the overall security posture of the city.
Additionally, he and other Directors of Security in the city of Detroit, aligned in their dedication to
citizen safety, have formed a formidable network. This commitment is evident in actions like
Ford Field generously donated Screening Mags to Huntington Place. This cutting-edge
technology enhances the venue’s capability to conduct efficient security screenings, ensuring a
secure environment for all attendees. This network of security directors also operates on the
same radio channel during Huntington Place events, enabling real-time information sharing
about attendees and facilitating swift responses to potential security concerns. This
synchronized approach underscores the venue’s commitment to proactive risk management.
Huntington Place held its first annual First Responder Thank You Breakfast to express gratitude
to the many Detroit area safety and security agencies that contribute to ongoing public safety
efforts at the venue. The venue’s Security Response Team comprises representatives from all
safety and security agencies in Detroit, the state of Michigan, and the federal government,
including the Detroit Police Department, Detroit Project Lighthouse, Michigan State Police, FBI,
U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, Secret Service, Detroit
Fire Marshal’s Office, local health Departments, and other local venues working closely with
Wilson and his on-site staff.
Building on our public and private sector partnerships, including more collaborative training and
security exercises, we look to work toward obtaining our Department of Homeland Security
SAFETY Act Designation. These enhancements will ensure that as a safety and security
community, we are always in a state of planning and preparation, allowing for better
communication and management in the event of a critical incident.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand the resilience of Detroit – a city built on grit, grind, and an unwavering
commitment to community.” Wilson states, “Here, security isn’t just a job- it’s a shared
responsibility that underscores the essence of our city. In Detroit, we look out for one another,
recognizing that safety and well-being are fundamental to our collective success. It’s this ethos
of solidarity that defines us, making Detroit a place where each individual’s vigilance contributes
to the strength and unity of our community.”
With Marlon Wilson leading the charge, Huntington Place is set to establish new benchmarks in
event security, ensuring that every guest can enjoy events with peace of mind.
About Huntington Place
With 723,000 square feet of exhibit space, Huntington Place, Detroit’s convention center, boasts
one of the largest contiguous exhibit floor spaces in North America and has the largest ballroom
in Michigan with 40,000 square feet. It is a LEED Gold-certified venue and has received
numerous industry awards for excellence including the 2020 USGBC Leadership Award for
Building Performance, making it the only convention center in the history of the award to receive
it. It is the 16th largest convention center in the United States. Follow us
on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and huntingtonplacedetroit.com.
About ASM Global
ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader
in venue and event strategy and management—delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-
edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue
network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious
arenas, stadiums, performing arts venues, and convention and exhibition centers, including The
Moscone Center, San Francisco; ICC Sydney, Australia; Olympia London; Shenzhen
World Exhibition and Convention Center, China; and P&J Live in Aberdeen, U.K. Follow us
on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. asmglobal.com.
