The Future of Baggage Handling: Collaboration, Data, and Cybersecurity at the Forefront

As airport technology accelerates, so do the challenges—and opportunities—facing baggage handling systems. From increasingly complex project schedules to rising cybersecurity concerns, the baggage world is no longer just about belts and bins. The convergence of operations technology (OT) and information technology (IT), coupled with the growing demand for data-driven insights, is forcing the industry to evolve fast. In fact, Brock Solutions reports that it now supports systems in 75% of Category X airports in the U.S., with international expansion underway—highlighting the scale and speed of this transformation.

So, how can industry stakeholders—from contractors and consultants to OEMs and IT professionals—collaborate more effectively to deliver smarter, safer, and more adaptable baggage systems?

In the debut episode of Baggage Guys Drinking Coffee, a special segment of the IABSC podcast, hosts Mike Kessler (Special Systems Senior Manager at Turner Construction Aviation) and Ryan Evers (Program Manager at Aecom) sit down with Dan Vandevenne, Business Unit Leader at Brock Solutions, for a candid conversation about the realities of baggage system integration. From emulation testing to data ownership and the rise of “Brocktoberfest,” this episode sets the tone for what it really takes to make baggage systems future-ready.

Key Highlights from the Conversation:

• Why early involvement matters: Dan emphasizes that software and controls teams should be brought in during early design phases—not after 100% design is complete—to avoid costly late-stage changes and ensure future-proof system architectures.

• Data isn’t just tech—it’s strategic: As more sensors and systems generate data, stakeholders must determine who owns it, when they can access it, and how it will be used—preferably well before go-live.

• Cybersecurity isn’t optional anymore: With baggage systems now riding on broader airport networks, outdated assumptions about standalone systems no longer apply. Integrating IT and OT safely is mission-critical.

Dan Vandevenne is a Business Unit Leader at Brock Solutions, where he’s spent over two decades advancing industrial automation and software integration. With a strong background in real-time controls and cross-industry experience—including aviation, manufacturing, and power—Dan is recognized for bringing pragmatic solutions to high-stakes environments. Under his leadership, Brock Solutions has become a key player in the baggage handling space, delivering software and controls for major airports across North America and beyond.