Every year, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference brings together law enforcement professionals, solution providers, and technology innovators shaping the future of public safety.

IACP gave us a chance to talk directly with public safety and law enforcement leaders and professionals about their current challenges and areas of opportunity.

Here’s what stood out to our team. 

1. Technology Is Changing Every Corner of Public Safety

From drones and robotics to digital systems that streamline chain-of-custody and evidence tracking, public safety agencies are integrating technology in ways that were almost unimaginable ten years ago. 

Our team saw the same drive for efficiency and accountability in everyday systems. As Chad Cooper from Steele Solutions explained:

“There’s a push to bring more technology into what used to be handwritten or undocumented functions. Public safety facilities are driving technology into every aspect of operations.”

That’s exactly where Steele Solutions’ Smart Evidence Locker fits. It’s not just another metal box; it’s a secure, access-managed system that captures the most critical handoff in the chain of custody: when evidence transfers from the arresting officer to the control room. 

With built-in authentication, time-stamping, and documentation, smart evidence lockers help ensure there’s a repeatable, secure process for evidence management and security. 

Learn more about secure storage capabilities. 

2. Recruitment Challenges Highlight the Need for Better Facilities

Another key theme we heard from attendees at the IACP conference centered around law enforcement recruitment and retention. 

Departments are asking the same question—what can we do to make officers feel valued and supported?

One surprisingly simple answer came up again and again: provide quality, welcoming spaces. 

Modern locker rooms aren’t just places to stash uniforms anymore; they’re part of an officer’s daily rhythm. As Cooper put it:

“When officers start and end their shift, they’re operating out of a station’s locker room. It’s their home base. If you can give them quality equipment, a clean space, and a well-designed locker system, that makes a difference.”

Not every department can build a brand-new facility, but remodeling existing spaces can have a real impact. Gone are the days of the 1980s gym-style lockers. 

Today’s wardrobe-style, airflow-enhanced lockers provide the storage, security, and organization modern officers need. These clean and well-organized spaces give public safety and law enforcement officers a sense of professionalism and pride in their workspace.

Take a look at the unique options available for personnel lockers. 

3. Flexibility and Design Matter More Than Ever

If there is one key aspect of law enforcement operations, it’s that no two agencies are the same. Each department has its own space constraints, workflow needs, and design preferences. That’s why flexibility came up as a defining theme in almost every conversation we had at the conference.

As John O’leary from the Steele Solutions team put it:

“We’re not just supplying a box with a lock and key. Like our name suggests, we’re providing a solution. We’re flexible in what we can deliver—different dimensions, airflow options, colors, configurations—everything is purpose-built for each unique agency.”

This flexibility doesn’t just improve function; it reflects an agency’s identity. 

Purpose-built, well-designed lockers help public safety facilities balance form, function, and security. And at the end of the day, it’s the level of customization and willingness to listen that help law enforcement professionals feel supported, valued, and ready to perform at their best.

The conversations we had reaffirmed that the intersection of technology, facility design, and human needs is where meaningful innovation happens.

As technology reshapes public safety, Steele Solutions remains focused on helping public safety and law enforcement agencies modernize securely and efficiently with solutions custom-built for the people who use them every day.

Curious about Steele Solutions’ unique locker products? Take a look at our product portfolio or reach out to our team directly to learn more about our custom solutions.