Forrest Gist, PE, CPP, is one of those professionals who sits at the intersection of engineering discipline and real-world security execution. As a Global Technology Principle at Jacobs Engineering, his work reflects a deep commitment to integrating security into the built environment as a core component of how facilities are designed and operated. His background as both a Professional Engineer and a Certified Protection Professional gives him a rare perspective: the ability to translate security requirements into technical, buildable solutions that align with architecture, infrastructure, and long-term operational needs.
Seeing Forrest at ISC West, holding Data Center Security: The Blueprint for Resilient Infrastructure, was a great moment. Forrest has long been an advocate for thoughtful, integrated design, particularly in how security systems are specified and implemented. His perspective has helped shape conversations across the A&E community, especially around the need to move beyond siloed systems and toward cohesive, engineered security strategies. That alignment made the exchange meaningful; the book reflects many of the same principles he’s been advancing throughout his career.
What stands out about Forrest is how he bridges theory and practice. He’s not just contributing to the conversation, he’s helping define how security is actually delivered in complex environments. Whether it’s working with global teams or influencing design standards, his focus remains consistent: make security practical, scalable, and aligned with how systems are truly built and used.
Moments like this, connecting with professionals like Forrest, sharing ideas, and seeing the work resonate, are what make ISC West valuable. It’s where experience meets execution, and where the next phase of the industry continues to take shape.