Campus Security

N.C. Community College Installs New Security Screening Solution

Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, N.C., recently announced a partnership with security technology company Evolv Technology to install a new weapons detection system on campus, according to a news release. The college’s performing arts venue, Wilson Center, now makes use of the Evolv Express system at its main entrance to screen guests entering the building. The college adopted the weapons detection system in 2019 and upgraded to the Express model in 2023, the news release reports.

The Evolv Express uses a combination of sensor technology and AI to differentiate between potential threats and everyday metal objects. Guests can pass through without needing to stop for an individual check unless required. The Wilson Center previously used manual bag searches and individual screenings for each guest.

“Our security screening process prior to implementing Evolv was cumbersome and unsustainable,” said the Wilson Center’s senior managing director, Tammy Daniels. “When I saw how quickly the system up leveled the safety of our venue and guests, I was so happy I was brought to tears.”

The theater seats about 1,600 and hosts plays, concerts, popular musical acts, and more. Other North- and South-Carolina schools, as well as other Charlotte sports venues, are among Evolv’s more than 700 customers, the news release reports.

“Cape Fear Community College exemplifies the breadth of venues that Evolv helps keep safer,” said Evolv Technology chief commercial officer Jay Muelhoefer. “Evolv is used in schools and performing arts spaces of all sizes around the country, and Cape Fear Community College joins a long—and growing—list of partnerships we have with customers in the Carolinas. We’re immensely proud to help protect the Wilson Center and further establish Evolv’s presence in the Southeast.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].