New State-of-the-Art Lower.com Field Delivers Unparalleled Fan Ingress Experiences with Evolv

Just a few years ago, the future of the Major League Soccer (MLS) club Columbus Crew looked bleak. The current owner of the Crew wanted to relocate the club to Austin, Texas. A group of avid fans formed #SavetheCrew and fought to keep the club in Columbus—and won. “The Haslam and Edwards families wanted to build an unparalleled fan ingress experience from the very start—and that is exactly what we did with breakthrough technologies like those from Evolv, Brandon Covert, VP of IT, Haslam Sports Group. By enabling Evolv Express®, Lower.com Stadium has been recognized as delivering the best fan ingress experience in the country and was able to achieve the following:  

  • Processed 80% of fans (16,000) entering the stadium through one gate in 20 minutes
  • Detected “ghost” weapons made with 3D printers
  • Delivered touchless, self-service fan ingress – from ticketing to security screening

Case Study Video

Watch how new State-of-the-Art Lower.com Field delivers unparalleled fan ingress experiences with Evolv

Read the case study to learn how you can start your journey to a more secure and guest-friendly security screening solution in the sports industry today.

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Download the infographic to see a snapshot view of the organization’s goals and outcomes to learn how you can do the same.

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View more of our case studies on our resources page here.

Tennessee Titans Turn to Evolv to ‘Get Obsessed’ About Fan Ingress Experience

Staffing shortages and protocols associated with COVID-19 have created numerous challenges related to fan ingress at sports stadiums across the country, including at Nissan Stadium. The Business Operations team for the Tennessee Titans knew they need to make a change – and fast. Adam Nuse, VP of Business Operations for the Tennessee Titans said, “We started off wanting to address customer service, but we ended up scratching that and went directly to being fan obsessed. When Evolv appeared on our radar, it fell right in line with what we were trying to do from the standpoint of creating a fan-obsessed environment.” By enabling Evolv Express® the Titans were able to achieve the following:  

  • Doubled fan ingress satisfaction scores from 2.3 to 4.6 (out of 5.0)
  • Reduced security staff required to manage entry points from 280 to 94
  • Extended security perimeter 100 feet – catching 254 prohibited objects before they got to the security gate within a 3-game period

Case Study Video

Watch how the Tennessee Titan’s are “Getting Obsessed” over the fan experience with Evolv

Read the case study to learn how you can start your journey to a more secure and guest-friendly security screening solution in the sports industry today.

Download Now

View more of our case studies on our resources page here.

Transforming the Fan Experience at a Sports Venue Near You

Attending a sports event in person should be exciting; something you look forward to.

It’s a chance to root for your team with thousands of other fans and maybe even witness a little piece of history.

For too many fans, though, that experience is overshadowed by the hassle that getting into the stadium, ballpark or arena has become. While it’s designed to keep fans safe, the security process at most events also causes backups that can put the excitement of spectators on hold.

Evolv is changing that.

Evolv has already improved the fan experience at stadiums and ballparks in the National Football League, Major League Soccer, and Major League Baseball, and we want to show every venue in professional sports that we can provide real, tangible solutions to transform the customer journey.

Improving the experience from street-to-seat

The way we see it, that transformation should focus on the street-to-seat experience…everything that happens from the moment you get out of your car or off of the subway, or however you get to the game, until you are in your seat. That’s where the business operators working for the home team can really influence how the fans feel. After that, the play on the field, court, pitch or ice takes over.

People tend to assume that team performance is the biggest indicator influencing whether a given fan comes to another game. Certainly, if a team is dreadful to watch, it doesn’t help. But it’s really the quality of the experience that leads to fans coming back. I’ve been around teams that were historically poor performers, and people came back because they enjoy taking their families or clients to the games. It’s not about wins and losses so much as it is about fun. And that begins at the point of ingress.

I would argue that when organizations bring in Evolv, it’s more like introducing a new Jumbotron than it is a new screening system.

Certainly, they’re improving their security and the entry process. But as far as fans are concerned? That pain point at entry has been transformed. It’s a massive improvement in their visitor experience. That could mean fans coming to more games, increased season ticket renewals, or fans spending more money on food and beverages or merchandise because they get in more quickly and have more time to enjoy what’s there.

It could also mean more favorable survey results. The NFL’s Tennessee Titans saw its fan ingress satisfaction score double – from a 2.3 to a 4.6 (out of 5.0) – when its fans no longer had to wait outside for pat-downs or to take items out of their pockets after Evolv was installed at Nissan Stadium.

You buy that Jumbotron because you want your fans to have the best experience possible. And that’s also what we’re providing to an organization.

Happiness across the board

Satisfied fans are one thing. How about a better experience for your employees?

Everyone entering a venue is being screened, including concession stand workers and even players for the home or visiting team. Shouldn’t these processes have an entry experience that is just as seamless as it is for fans? We’ve heard great feedback on the employee side, where they don’t have to wait in long lines or stop and empty their bags. They say they actually don’t even realize they’re being screened because they just walk through at their normal pace. They’re happier going through the process just getting to their jobs.

Tailored venue solutions

One of the great things about sports is that every venue is different. Each stadium, ballpark, and arena has its own personality. We work hard to make sure that each Evolv system is similarly unique and appropriate to its setting. And it’s not just ingress. We work with everyone – whether they are a new partner or an existing one – to figure out where there are problems and how Evolv can help.

It could be in the kind of data we offer that goes above and beyond the insights organizations are used to getting. Security staff can use Evolv’s data to see what kind of secondary searches were conducted at the end of the night, or they can look at real-time situational information. Since all of the data is cloud-based and on an app if there is something that needs to be communicated it can be done instantly at the push of a button rather than through a complicated multi-point protocol.

Venues that host different events such as football, concerts and soccer, like Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, can use Evolv’s data to determine staffing and analyze trends for each individual event.

Throughout my career in sports, all I’ve ever cared about is improving the fan experience. As a business person and not an athlete, I knew I couldn’t control whether my team won or lost, but I could give 100% effort to make sure that every fan had a good time and wanted to return. What’s great about my role at Evolv is that I still get to do that, and at the same time, I get to keep people safe. We’re not compromising safety for a better experience, we’re keeping you safe while at the same time helping to give you an amazing experience from street-to-seat.

NFL, MLB, and MLS Sports Fans Experience Little to No Wait Times with Evolv Technology Touchless Screening

Venues including Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons), Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans), and Lower.com Field (Columbus Crew) are taking steps to reduce crowd security threats by using Evolv Express®

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in weapons detection security screening, today announced that its state-of-the-art Evolv Express® screening solution is helping to fundamentally transform the fan experience at many professional sports stadiums across the U.S.

Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, eliminated its 30-minute security screening queues and doubled visitor satisfaction for screening overnight – from a 2.3 to a 4.6 (out of 5.0). Thanks to Evolv Express, Lower.com Field, home of the Columbus Crew MLS team, can now accommodate a surge of 16,000 fans entering the stadium through one gate. By integrating security screening, ticketing and facial scanning, Lower.com Field has streamlined the entry process and created a completely touchless experience for Crew fans.

At Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons, 9 out of 10 fans now say that the security screening process is no longer a point of contention for them. The stadium also rates in the top quarter of all NFL stadiums for gate entry experience from fans.

“We are transforming sports events from the era of waiting in large, threat-prone crowds, through long lines and invasive bag checks to a safer, touchless experience,” said Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology. “Teams across the country are showing their commitment to fan-first experiences by implementing innovative technology, like Evolv Express, that delivers a positive impression from the moment a fan arrives. These teams don’t just claim to put their fans first, they’re doing it – and their fans are noticing.”

Evolv is transforming security so that people can gather safely with ease. Using advanced, sensor-based AI-driven technology for weapons detection screening, Evolv Express can help to move people through the gates at unprecedented volume and speed. Built on its Evolv Cortex AI software platform, Evolv continually improves its customers’ security posture through machine learning and on-demand analytical insights in a way that legacy metal detectors and other analog screening systems have not.

Additionally, through Evolv Insights™ analytics, the company provides additional capabilities and insights to teams who want to continuously improve their fan entrance experience. For example, operations and security teams can review the dashboard for shifts in traffic to identify where improvements, such as repositioning scanners, can be made to improve flow.

Delivering on Demand With Professional Sports Experts

Evolv has added a team of professional sports experts to its expanding employee roster to meet the growing demand from forward-thinking sports visionaries.  

Leading the team, the company has hired John Baier as Vice President of Sports. He spent the last 15 years with BSE Global, the parent company of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center, where he played a pivotal role in launching the new sales and relocation efforts of the Nets with the opening of the Barclays Center in 2012. He’s held numerous titles for which his responsibilities included running business development efforts and client retention.

“We love watching fans’ faces when they realize they don’t have to stop as they walk through Evolv Express,” said Baier. “Once a stadium implements Evolv Express, the atmosphere and energy level on the outside of the stadium matches the inside. The frustration and impatience that go hand-in-hand with long security lines and extended wait times are replaced by excitement and anticipation as fans focus on the reason they are there: to see their team play… and hopefully win!”

About Evolv Technology

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is a leader in weapons detection for security screening, securing the world’s most iconic venues and companies. Its mission is enabling a better experience and better security for venues, creating a safer world to work, learn, and play by transforming physical security to make everywhere safer. It gives sports fans, theme park visitors, concertgoers, shoppers, employees, students, and others peace of mind so that they can gather without fear of violence. Its security screening has scanned more than 100 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, and its technology combines powerful, advanced sensors with proven artificial intelligence (AI), security ecosystem integrations, and comprehensive venue analytics to reliably detect threats 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors.

Evolv Technology, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights™, and Evolv Cortex AI™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.

For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our prospectus, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 3, 2021, and other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Marcus Performing Arts Center Ushers in the 2022 Season with Evolv

With Evolv Express®, guests at Milwaukee’s premier performing arts space experience a frictionless, safe, and fast entry experience

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in weapons detection security screening, today announced a partnership with the Marcus Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee, WI. With Evolv’s state-of-the-art Evolv Express® screening solution, visitors can now walk right into the venue without any unwelcome delays at the entrance.

The Marcus Performance Arts Center (Marcus Center) is a gathering place for the community. The largest Marcus Center venue, Uihlein Hall, provides the stage for everything from touring Broadway shows to nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, as well as a place for local artists and theater companies to perform. With today’s announcement, the audience can get to their seats faster, thanks to an entry process that can screen up to 3,600 people per hour.

“Evolv has completely transformed our audiences’ experience,” said Jayson Wasielewski, Director of Security at Marcus Performing Arts Center. “Audience members are able to enter our venue with ease and get to their seats quickly.”

Evolv Express uses powerful sensor technology with proven artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volume and speed. The technology enables guests to walk through the system side-by-side without removing items from their pockets or bags.

“The Marcus Performing Arts Center works to bring people together with its programming,” said Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology. “With our partnership, the Marcus Center’s audience members can turn their attention to the experience and enjoy the performance.”

Audiences first experienced Evolv Express when Hamilton was presented at the Marcus Center in October of 2021. Broadway at the Marcus Center continues into 2022 with performances of Mean Girls in January, Pretty Woman in March, and Cats in May, among other shows. The Marcus Center is also home to the Milwaukee Ballet Company, Florentine Opera Company, and the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Wasielewski continued, “In addition to the audience experience, the Evolv Express has significantly improved our internal operations, enabling right-sized staffing.”

About Marcus Performing Arts Center

Established in 1969, the Marcus Performing Arts Center (MPAC) is the premier performing arts community gathering space in Southeastern Wisconsin, bringing high-quality arts and cultural programming to the region. As a mission-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization, MPAC strives to act as a bridge between cultures and an energizing force for collaboration and advocacy in the community. The touring Broadway series, sponsored by Johnson Financial Group, is recognized as bringing the best of Broadway entertainment to Milwaukee since 1996, and provides opportunities to educate, entertain, and engage audiences. As a presenter, MPAC offers its own diverse arts and cultural programming and outreach, such as MPAC Presents, Rainbow Summer Reimagined, KidZ Days, ArtsConnect, and additional performances from internationally-renowned performing artists. Marcus Performing Arts Center is also home to a variety of resident arts partners, including First Stage, Milwaukee Ballet, Florentine Opera Company, Black Arts MKE, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, and more. MPAC is proud to be a dedicated War Memorial facility, honoring those who bravely served our country. For more information, visit www.marcuscenter.org.

About Evolv Technology

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is the leader in weapons detection for security screening, securing the world’s most iconic venues and companies. Its mission is enabling a better experience and better security for venues, creating a safer world to work, learn, and play by transforming physical security to make everywhere safer. It gives sports fans, theme park visitors, concertgoers, shoppers, employees, students, and others peace of mind so that they can gather without fear of violence. Its security screening has scanned more than 100 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, and its technology combines powerful, advanced sensors with proven artificial intelligence (AI), security ecosystem integrations, and comprehensive venue analytics to reliably detect threats 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors.

Evolv Technology, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights™, and Evolv Cortex AI™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.

For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our prospectus, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 3, 2021, and other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Contacts

Media Contact:

Fitzgerald Barth

fbarth@evolvtechnology.com

 

Investor Contact:
Brian Norris
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com

Evolv Technology Delivers Outstanding Security for Outstanding Performances at Gillioz Center for Arts and Entertainment

Historical Ozarks Entertainment and Gathering Venue Adopts Modern Security to Deliver Great Customer Experiences

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in weapons detection security screening, today announced its newest customer, the Historic Gillioz Theatre.

At first glance, guests of the Gillioz Theatre may not be aware of Evolv Technology, but they will notice the ease of entering the venue and the elimination of long lines, security wands, and bag checks.

Evolv Technology’s security-as-a-service provides the Gillioz Theatre with advanced safety screening kiosks and artificial intelligence software which allow guests to walk through without removing items from their bags or pockets. The partnership enables the Gillioz Theatre to fortify physical security while also providing an additional source of intelligent data to support and improve internal operations as well as guest experience.

“Our top priorities are to ensure the safety of our guests while delivering a great theater experience. With Evolv Technology, we’re able to exceed their expectations with an unobtrusive approach to security screenings,” said Geoff Steele, executive director of the Gillioz Theatre. “And it’s a solution that easily blends the future with the past without disrupting the ambiance of our lobby and auditorium, which has been restored to its original 1926 condition.”

Located in Springfield, Missouri, the Gillioz Theatre is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. With seating for just over 1,000 guests, the Gillioz Theatre hosts special events that include concerts, film, theatre, arts education, religious gatherings, school programs, weddings, seminars/conventions, and television broadcasts.

“Theaters and entertainment venues of all sizes are realizing significant benefits after easily installing Evolv Technology in just a few hours,” said Peter George, CEO, Evolv Technology. “Along with modernizing safety and security, Evolv streamlines the flow of traffic into a public space. This allows security to focus on protecting the premises, enables guests to spend more time socializing, and provides the venue with more opportunities to maximize concession sales without compromising security.”

About the Gillioz Center for Arts and Entertainment

The Gillioz Center for Arts and Entertainment is a 501c-3 non-profit committed to preserving the past, celebrating community and making memories through art and entertainment. Originally opened in 1926, the theatre was closed for 26 years. Renovation was completed in 2006. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic Gillioz has experienced a strong resurgence and has become the most awarded venue in the region.

About Evolv Technology

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is the leader in weapons detection for security screening, securing the world’s most iconic venues and companies. Its mission is enabling a better experience and better security for venues, creating a safer world to work, learn, and play by transforming physical security to make everywhere safer. It gives sports fans, theme park visitors, concertgoers, shoppers, employees, students, and others peace of mind so that they can gather without fear of violence. Its security screening has scanned more than 100 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, and its technology combines powerful, advanced sensors with proven artificial intelligence (AI), security ecosystem integrations, and comprehensive venue analytics to reliably detect threats 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors.

Evolv Technology, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights™, and Evolv Cortex AI™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.

For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our prospectus, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 3, 2021, and other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Contacts

Media Contact:

Fitzgerald Barth

fbarth@evolvtechnology.com

Investor Contact:
Brian Norris
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com

 

 

 

 

Built In Recognizes Evolv as one of the Best Places to Work in Boston

Evolv Technology is a mission-driven organization with employees who are passionate about the safety of others. Simply stated, we put people first — whether it’s protecting public spaces or supporting the development of our own employees. That’s why I am delighted to share that today, Evolv was recognized three times in Built In’s 2022 Best Places To Work Awards.  

In addition to being named one of Built In’s Best Places to Work in Boston, Evolv was also named one of the Best Midsize Companies to Work For and one of the Best Paying Companies. Built In’s annual awards program honors companies of all sizes, from startups to enterprise corporations in the eight largest tech markets in the United States.  

The awards measure aspects of an employer such as compensation, benefits, support, culture and company-wide programs. Evolv’s flexible work environment and strong culture helped set us apart from other companies – here’s just a peek at some of the benefits our employees enjoy: 

  • Equity is an important component of every compensation package 
  • Flexible work environment 
  • 401(k) plan 
  • Unlimited vacation policy 
  • $300 per quarter to spend on the perks that are most meaningful to you 

If you want to solve one of the most difficult issues of our time and save lives doing it, you want to work at Evolv. We are passionate, knowing that what we do and how we do helps our customers keep their customers safe. At Evolv, you will have unparalleled exposure to all aspects of our business, working with a talented team of people who share our vision for a safer world.  

Don’t just take our word for it, though – hear what some of our team members have to say! 

We are continuing to grow and add to our award-winning team. If what you’ve just read sounds interesting to you, take a look at our open positions and apply today!  

Built In Recognizes Evolv for Three 2022 ‘Best Places to Work’ Awards

Company recognized for Best Places to Work, Best Midsize Companies to Work For, and Best Paying Companies

Built In today announced that Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) was honored with three of its 2022 Best Places To Work Awards. In addition to being recognized as one of Built In’s Best Places to Work, Evolv was named one of the Best Midsize Companies to Work For, and one of the Best Paying Companies. Built In’s annual awards program includes companies of all sizes, from startups to enterprise corporations, and honors companies in the eight largest tech markets in the U.S.

At Evolv, we put people first, whether that’s in the work we do protecting public spaces or supporting the development and well-being of our own employees.”  said Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology.  “Every one of the Evolv team – including our customers and partners – take our mission very seriously, to make the world a safer place for people to work, learn and play.  These awards reflect the mission we hold dear and our values of being authentic, courageous and kind, while having a lot of fun together.”

Built In determines the winners of Best Places to Work based on an algorithm, using company data about compensation, benefits and companywide programming. To reflect the benefits candidates are searching for more frequently on Built In, the program also weighs criteria like remote and flexible work opportunities, programs for DEI, and other people-first cultural offerings. A midsize company is one with 101-500 employees.

“It is my honor to extend congratulations to the 2022 Best Places to Work winners,” said Sheridan Orr, Chief Marketing Officer, Built In. “This year saw a record number of entrants – and the past two years fundamentally changed what tech professionals want from work. These honorees have risen to the challenge, evolving to deliver employee experiences that provide the meaning and purpose today’s tech professionals seek.”

The award recognition follows a busy and successful 2021 for Evolv: the company expanded its roster of companies and venues with whom it partners to deliver secure and frictionless visitor experiences, such as the Tennessee Titans, Georgia Aquarium, Columbus Crew and the U.S. Open, became a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange, and achieved the milestone of 100 million + people screened (second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the U.S.). In 2022 the company is hiring for a number of key roles.

About Built In

Built In is creating the largest platform for technology professionals globally. Monthly, more than three million of the industry’s most in-demand professionals visit the site from across the world. They rely on our platform to stay ahead of tech trends and news, develop their careers and find opportunities at companies whose values they share. Built In also serves 1,800 innovative companies of all sizes, ranging from startups to the Fortune 100. By putting their stories in front of our uniquely engaged audience, we help them hire otherwise hard-to-reach tech professionals, locally nationally or remotely. www.builtin.com

About Built In’s Best Places To Work

Built In’s esteemed Best Places To Work Awards, now in its fourth year, honor companies across numerous categories: 100 Best Places to Work, 50 Best Small Places to Work, 100 Best Midsize Places to Work, 50 Companies with the Best Benefits and 50 Best Paying Companies, 100 Best Large Companies to Work For, and 50 Best Remote-First Places to Work.

About Evolv Technology

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is the leader in weapons detection for security screening, securing the world’s most iconic venues and companies. Its mission is enabling a better experience and better security for venues, creating a safer world to work, learn, and play by transforming physical security to make everywhere safer. It gives sports fans, theme park visitors, concertgoers, shoppers, employees, students, and others peace of mind so that they can gather without fear of violence. Its security screening has scanned more than 100 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, and its technology combines powerful, advanced sensors with proven artificial intelligence (AI), security ecosystem integrations, and comprehensive venue analytics to reliably detect threats 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors.

Evolv Technology, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights™, and Evolv Cortex AI™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.

For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our prospectus, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 3, 2021, and other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

2022: Planning for the Uncertain

John Pistole is a former administrator of the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and a former deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

It’s hard to believe we’re staring down the end of another year – and 2022 is already shaping up to be one unlike any other. For many workplaces and industries, there’s still a feeling of starting anew after suffering so much disruption through most of 2020 and 2021. From a security standpoint, much about the year ahead is going to be like the past two years – planning and being ready for the uncertain.

Evolution of challenges and threats

As people physically return to offices in 2022, there are challenges and opportunities when it comes to safety. Most organizations have had a year (and in many cases more) to review previous protocols and think about how to revise them to meet today’s new work environment, risks and threats. In addition, the fact that most organizations are welcoming employees back in a staggered or hybrid fashion means they can test new approaches and collect feedback and data from smaller, more manageable numbers.

On the other hand, challenges and threats have evolved. For example, in years past, companies that rent office space in a high-rise could rely on security provided by the building management. That approach needs to be reconsidered given the impact the pandemic has had on commercial real estate and the need (or lack thereof) for sprawling office space.

On the threat side, experts worry we will see an uptick in workplace violence as more Americans go from working at home to back in the office. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), one of the key reasons behind the anticipated increase is that many workers continue to struggle with physical, mental and emotional stress stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Retired FBI agent Terri Patterson, a psychologist and principal at Control Risks, reinforced this when he said, “I do firmly believe that we’re still in that space where we have a workforce that is really vulnerable right now. We do believe that a stressed population is more vulnerable to becoming disgruntled or aggrieved.”

In response to these changing challenges and threats, I anticipate more companies recognizing the need to take security measures into their own hands. For mature companies, this shouldn’t be much of an issue; they’ve likely already addressed security as a corporate priority, and, as a result, included it in their annual budget. For a lot of start-ups, though, security might not have ranked high on the priority list, but will begin to move as employees and customers start demanding a safer environment. With the threat landscape changing every day, no company gets a pass when it comes to thinking about – and prioritizing – digital and physical security. 

Risk mitigation, not elimination

Every chief security officer (CSO) is worried about access control, from both inside and outside the workplace. As people return to the office, security personnel need to make sure they’re managing risks with a risk-based approach. For example, how can they make sure people with authorized access should continue to maintain that access?

On the physical security side, it’s imperative today’s CSOs and others charged with their organization’s security are planning with these new threats in mind. For example, an employee with authorized access on Friday is arrested over the weekend for domestic violence comes to the office on Monday. What is the protocol?

No matter the size of the organization, any multi-person company needs to have a strategy for security; and that strategy should be focused on mitigating, not eliminating, risk. After all, eliminating risk is a fool’s errand; it’s impossible. But having a solid and comprehensive plan for risk mitigation that is reviewed and revised on a regular basis is a must-have for any company doing business in 2022. 

One way to get started is to figure out what the biggest threats are and then identify the areas that are most vulnerable. Once that’s done, you can employ mitigation strategies or identify existing opportunities.

Immediately following the September 11th attacks, for example, many of the risk mitigation strategies centered around travel. The threat of another attack resulted in strengthening vulnerable areas in aviation, like increasing the number of federal air marshals, reinforcing cockpit doors, and differentiating passengers from high- to low-risk.

Public perception: risk vs. benefit

There is an element of convenience involved in getting people on board with security measures. When it comes to being screened, people don’t want to be inconvenienced. They don’t want invasions into their privacy or to have their movements tracked, but they do want to remain safe when they get on a flight, attend a concert, or go to work.

For the security industry, that means finding a balance in how safety and protection is offered and the impact that has on people who are not a threat.

In my experience working for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), that really comes down to the messaging, and how the measures are presented to the public. There is no one-size-fits-all solution – what works for one industry does not always work for others. Sometimes that has to do with cost, but sometimes it has to do with what’s practical in each setting. For example, airports must have multiple layers of security, many of which require people to stand in line to go through screening. Travelers know that in order to mitigate the risk of an attack happening on a plane, they have to deal with a bit of mild inconvenience. People going to work in an office are unlikely to weigh the benefits and risks the same.

For businesses and security personnel, it’s important to remember that people need to understand that there’s a trade-off in what they are willing to accept in order to remain safe. As safety and security technology improves, we are seeing more and more companies not only recognize this delicate balance, but finding ways to meet safety demands plus expectations for a seamless and convenient experience.

It is difficult to anticipate what lies ahead as we emerge from such an unpredictable two years. But we can take what we do know and use that to figure out what is most likely. For example, we know to be alert for domestic terrorism, which the FBI deems a persistent threat. And the rising rate of cyber terrorism provides a good indicator that money spent on digital security and protection is a wise investment.

The only true “known” is that risk knows no boundaries, and it can’t be completely eliminated. But it can be prepared for, and the organizations that are constantly assessing risk are the ones that will be most ready for what might come.

Emerald Queen Casino Doubled Down on Evolv Express® and Hit the Jackpot

Before becoming an Evolv Technology customer, Emerald Queen Casino used metal detection wands. Once they were introduced to the Evolv Express® as they looked to reopen after the pandemic, David Yerbury, Director of Security at EQC said, “I take the safety of our guests and employees very seriously. Evolv and its Express system is a game-changer for us. Knowing that I have this technology in place at every entrance helps me sleep better at night.” By enabling Evolv Express through one of our partners, Velesea, EQC was able to achieve the following:  

  • Maximize security effectiveness and accuracy without impacting the guest experience
  • Manage security screening with approximately half the security staff required for a magnetometers-based solution
  • Reduced need for secondary security screening across all guests and employees

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