Page 9 - WBG Dec 2025

Message from

2 VICE PRESIDENT
ND

Learning, Legacy and Looking Ahead

By Roger Bescoby, 2nd Vice President, WAD
There’s a saying many of us have come to appreciate more and more with
time: “Every day is a school day.” Even for old-timers like me, that couldn’t
be more true, especially within an organisation as dynamic and forward-
thinking as WAD.

The Centenary Conference in Chicago was nothing short of epic. Months
have passed, yet the buzz is still alive across the WAD chat groups, people
are still ‘coming down’ from what was a truly unforgettable event.
The credit, of course, belongs to Wes Bearden, Bob Heales, Chuck
McLaughlin, and Mike LaCorte whose tireless work, dedication and
professionalism delivered a landmark moment in WAD’s proud history. To
say I was totally in awe of the energy those chaps demonstrated would be
a huge understatement. Thank you guys! For all of us lucky enough to have
been there, we’ll forever be able to proudly say: “I WAS THERE.”

What stood out most to me this year was the continuing hunger for learning.
Some of the breakout sessions were standing room only, particularly those
on OSINT, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Eavesdropping. It was a
powerful reminder of the relevance of our work in today’s rapidly changing
world, and of our members’ shared commitment to staying ahead of the
curve. Be sure to expect more of the same at future events.

AI, in particular, is set to play a huge role in shaping the future of
investigations, not least as what we learned in Chicago may already be out
of date today! But as we embrace the new, we must also remind ourselves
that technology is not infallible. The skills, instincts, and global experience
of the WAD membership remain irreplaceable. It is this fusion of innovation,
compliance and wisdom that defines our professionalism.

But with every great event comes the challenge: how do you follow that?
The bar has been set incredibly high, and I know full well your future hosts
are already deep in thought! One thing is for sure, for many members our
2026 mid-term meet in Casablanca and main Conference in Cannes just
cannot come around soon enough.

I was also struck by the noticeable presence of younger members in Chicago.
“It’s exciting and
It’s exciting and reassuring to see the next generation stepping forward,
bringing energy, fresh ideas, and passion to our community. The future of
reassuring to see
WAD is in very good hands.
the next generation
Attending a WAD conference is no small undertaking, financially, logistically,
stepping forward, personally. And yet people go to great lengths simply to be there. Why?
Because they know they’ll be surrounded by the best of the best. Just like-
bringing energy, fresh minded professionals committed to learning, sharing and leading.
Long may that continue.
ideas, and passion to
Warmest regards,
our community.”

Roger Bescoby

2nd Vice President

www.wad.net | June 2025 7