Events – Foundation for Advancing Security Talent

FAST Launches Talent for Tomorrow Fundraiser in Conjunction with Workforce Development Month

Dallas, Texas – September 3, 2024 – The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is excited to announce the launch of its Talent for Tomorrow fundraiser, coinciding with Workforce Development Month. Throughout September, FAST aims to raise $10,000 to support its mission of attracting, training, and retaining new talent within the security industry. This initiative is held in partnership with the Security Industry Association (SIA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA).

The Talent for Tomorrow fundraiser is aligned with the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals’ (NAWDP) Workforce Development Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role workforce development plays in strengthening the economy. The Talent for Tomorrow fundraiser seeks to bring together industry stakeholders, employers, and community members to address critical workforce challenges in the security sector.

Supporting FAST’s Mission:

The funds raised during the “Talent for Tomorrow” campaign will directly support key FAST programs, including:

FAST Workforce Development Roundtable: An informative session to learn more about training opportunities in the security industry, held September 26^th, 2024. Register here.
FAST Job Board: A platform connecting job seekers with career opportunities in the security industry.
Opportunities in Security Study: Research focused on identifying and promoting career paths in the security sector. Participation by all is encouraged here.
School Outreach: Building programs to facilitate industry engagement with schools for employer partnerships and participation with students.

Donations can be made at FAST’s fundraising website here.

The funds raised in September will be used to increase awareness of diverse and rewarding careers in the security industry, enhance its competitiveness with other technical fields, and engage with educational institutions to introduce students to these opportunities. Additionally, the funds will facilitate collaboration between employers, educators, and training providers to attract and develop new talent, ensuring the growth of the next generation of security professionals. The success of this campaign will ensure that the security industry continues to thrive by developing a skilled and resilient workforce.

How to Get Involved:

We encourage industry stakeholders, partners, and the broader community to participate in the Talent for Tomorrow fundraiser. Companies that donate $500 or more will have their logos displayed as Talent for Tomorrow supporters on our website and at ISC West, showcasing their commitment to the industry.

Donations can be made through the FAST-crowdfunding website, where supporters can also find ongoing updates throughout the month.

For more information, please contact FAST Executive Director Aiden O’Brien at aobrien@advancingsecurity.org.

About FAST

The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is dedicated to connecting passionate, innovative professionals with new opportunities in the electronic security and life safety industry. Through partnerships with leading associations such as ESA and SIA, FAST raises awareness about career advancement opportunities within the fast-paced technology industry that serves to keep people, places and property safe.

About ESA

Established in 1948, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest trade association in the United States representing the electronic security and life safety industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. Together, ESA member companies employ more than 500,000 industry professionals and serve more than 34 million residential and commercial clients.

About SIA

The Security Industry Association (SIA) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,400 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through events like Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.

Showcasing the Security Industry Survey: Shape the Future of Our Field

The security industry stands on the brink of transformative change, driven by rapid technological advancements and a growing need for security solutions. The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is launching the “Showcasing the Security Industry” survey on August 19, aiming to gather valuable insights from professionals like you. Your input will play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s future and inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in security.

Why Your Participation Matters: The security industry offers diverse and rewarding career paths, yet attracting new talent remains a challenge. Through this survey, FAST seeks to understand the opportunities and hurdles within the industry directly from those who know it best — you, the professionals on the ground.

Survey Objectives:

Collect Quantitative Data: We aim to gather data on career advancement, training accessibility, industry support systems, and overall job satisfaction.
Capture Personal Anecdotes: Your stories and personal experiences are invaluable. They will help us showcase the security industry’s diversity and appeal, encouraging more individuals to explore careers in this vital sector.

Key Areas of Focus:

Career Advancement Opportunities: Share your views on the growth opportunities within your field.
Training Accessibility: Help us understand how accessible educational and training resources are to professionals in the industry.
Support Systems Effectiveness: Your insights on the support systems available at your workplace or in the industry will help us propose improvements.
Attracting Younger Workforce: Share your thoughts on current strategies to make the industry appealing to younger generations.
Industry Optimism: Tell us about your outlook on the future of the security industry.
Career Satisfaction: Rate your overall satisfaction with your career in the security industry.

How to Participate: Taking part in the survey is simple and only requires about 10 minutes of your time. Your feedback will be instrumental in driving initiatives that not only enhance workforce development but also improve outreach efforts to schools and educational programs.

The Impact of Your Contribution: By participating in the “Showcasing the Security Industry” survey, you are not just providing data — you are actively contributing to a broader effort to enhance the industry’s image and attract fresh talent. The insights gathered will be used to inform educational materials, outreach programs, and strategies to ensure a vibrant future for the security industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to influence the future of the security industry. Your input is crucial, and together, we can ensure the industry continues to thrive and adapt in an ever-changing world.

Click here to participate in the survey starting August 19.

FAST and YouScience: Partnering to Build the Security Industry’s Future Workforce

The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is thrilled to announce its partnership with YouScience, a groundbreaking platform that helps identify individuals with the aptitude and interest in various career fields, including the security industry. This collaboration aims to connect security companies with talented students in their local communities, fostering a pipeline of future professionals equipped with the skills and passion necessary for success in security.

Why Companies Should Participate

1. Access to a Talent Pipeline: One of the most significant challenges facing the security industry today is attracting and retaining skilled professionals. By participating in the YouScience program, companies gain direct access to a pool of students who have demonstrated both an interest and an aptitude for careers in security. This early engagement can help companies identify and nurture future talent, ensuring a steady flow of qualified candidates into the workforce.

2. Community Engagement: Participating in the YouScience program allows companies to establish strong ties with local schools and communities. By showcasing their company and career opportunities, they can inspire and educate the next generation about the possibilities within the security industry. This community engagement not only helps in building a positive brand image but also fosters a sense of responsibility and connection to the community.

3. Cost-Effective Recruitment: The YouScience program is free for companies participating through FAST, providing a cost-effective way to identify and engage with potential employees. Traditional recruitment methods can be expensive and time-consuming, but with YouScience, companies can efficiently connect with students who have already expressed interest in the industry, streamlining the recruitment process and reducing associated costs.

4. Addressing Workforce Development Needs: Workforce development is a crucial area of need in the security industry. By participating in the YouScience program, companies can actively contribute to building a well-prepared and skilled workforce. This proactive approach to workforce development ensures that the industry continues to evolve and meet the demands of an ever-changing security landscape.

Get Started Today

Ready to get started and make a difference in the security industry? Participating in the YouScience program is simple and free for companies. By joining, you will have the opportunity to connect with local students, showcase your company, and help build a strong talent pipeline for the future.

Fill out the form here to get the process started and begin engaging with the next generation of security professionals today!

This partnership between FAST and YouScience represents a significant step forward in addressing the talent shortage in the security industry. By leveraging the capabilities of YouScience, FAST aims to create meaningful connections between companies and students, fostering a robust and dynamic workforce equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Together, we can ensure that the security industry continues to thrive and innovate. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative initiative. Sign up today and help shape the future of the security industry!

Announcing the Winners of the 2024 Security Technician of the Year Awards

The Foundation for Advancing Security Technology (FAST) is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Security Technician of the Year Awards, now in its second year. This prestigious initiative highlights the critical role that security technicians play within the industry, celebrating their excellence in the meticulous design, installation, and maintenance of security systems that safeguard our communities.

Security technicians are the unsung heroes on the front lines of safety, whose dedication and expertise help ensure that our homes, workplaces, and national infrastructure remain secure. Recognizing these professionals is not just an acknowledgment of their tireless efforts but a testament to their pivotal role in advancing the security industry.

This year’s winners are standout examples of commitment and leadership, who have each demonstrated exceptional customer service, technological proficiency, and professional integrity.

2024 Security Technician of the Year Awardees:

Calvin Sprague
Technician III, Stealth Monitoring

James Brevard
Master Installation Technician & Trainer, ADT

Chris Gordon
Level 4 Security Technician, SAGE Integration

Peter Gagne
Technician III, Stealth Monitoring

Vanna Phan
Electrical Technician 4, M.C. Dean

Jeff Lane
Fire Division PM, Down East Protection Systems

Kyle Ackerman
Installation Technician, Everon

Anthony Jeffries
Electrical Technician 3, M.C. Dean

Harry Hoyte
Senior Service Technician, Grid Squared Systems

Aaron Welch
Head of Hardware, Nexkey

“The Security Technician of the Year Awards shines a spotlight on the incredible talent within our industry,” said Ken Kocher, President of Force Security Solutions, and member of the FAST Board of Directors. “These awards are a way to recognize the outstanding work of security technicians and to showcase the significant impact they have on all of us.”

FAST is proud to invite the security industry to celebrate these achievements at the awards ceremony, which will be held during the closing ceremony of the Electronic Security Expo (ESX). The event details are as follows:

Awards Ceremony:
Date: June 6, 2024
Time: 11:45 AM
Location: Main Stage, ESX

We look forward to honoring these exceptional individuals who have not only excelled in their roles but have also contributed to raising industry standards. Their insights on industry challenges and professional advice, reflecting their deep understanding and passion for the field, will also be featured in upcoming FAST communications.

Congratulations to all our winners!

For media inquiries and further details on the winners, please contact Aiden O’Brien at aobrien@advancingsecurity.org.

About FAST

The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is dedicated to connecting passionate, innovative professionals with new opportunities in the electronic security and life safety industry. Through partnerships with leading associations such as ESA and SIA, FAST raises awareness about career advancement opportunities within the fast-paced technology industry that serves to keep people, places and property safe.

About ESA

Established in 1948, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest trade association in the United States representing the electronic security and life safety industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. Together, ESA member companies employ more than 500,000 industry professionals and serve more than 34 million residential and commercial clients.

About SIA

The Security Industry Association (SIA) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,400 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.

Elevate the Security Industry with FAST at SIA Honors Night 2023

An exciting opportunity to uplift the future of the security industry awaits your participation! The Security Industry Association (SIA) Honors Night 2023, happening on Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at HK Hall in New York City, is an exceptional evening dedicated to recognizing leadership, fostering connections, and most importantly, empowering the next generation of security professionals.

This year, we are thrilled to announce that the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) has been chosen as the beneficiary of the evening’s fundraising initiatives. FAST’s mission, to connect talent with careers in the security industry, aligns seamlessly with the goal of community upliftment and industry advancement that SIA Honors Night embodies.

We invite companies to be pivotal change agents through the FAST Giving Match Partnership. With a meaningful contribution of $1,500, partners can magnify their impact, creating a ripple effect of generosity and support. Contributions will be pooled, and on Honors Night, FAST will utilize these combined funds to match each donation received, thereby amplifying the value and effect of every single contribution made.

Participants in the FAST Giving Match Partnership will be accorded due recognition and visibility, manifesting in various forms throughout the evening’s proceedings and online before and after the event. It’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your commitment to the future of the industry by participating in this innovative initiative.

To become a crucial part of this transformative initiative, interested partners are encouraged to reach out directly to Aiden O’Brien at aobrien@advancingsecurity.org.

REGISTER NOW and join us for an extraordinary evening at the 2023 SIA Honors Night. Together, let us champion the future of the industry, and work together to connect talent with careers in security.

The FAST Golf Classic Tournament

Supporting Initiatives to Grow the Workforce in the Electronic Security and Life Safety Industry

The FAST Golf Classic tournament (formerly the AIREF Golf Classic) is an annual golf outing that allows industry professionals to network and golf without guilt — as they support vital industry initiatives.

Learn more and register to attend here!

Funds raised through the tournament will be funneled into initiatives that support workforce development efforts to attract more qualified talent to our growing and evolving industry.

As FAST’s only fundraising event, we need your continued pledge and participation! Come network with the movers and shakers of our industry — for a fun, guilt-free day of golf.

About the Course

Desert Pines Golf Club features over 4,000 mature pine trees lining the fairways with green grass running from tees to pins. White sand bunkers protect large, undulating, bent grass greens fashioned after those at Augusta National Golf Club. Experience the Carolina sandhills, tucked away minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, in the historic part of Las Vegas. As you begin your Vegas golf round at Desert Pines Golf Club Las Vegas, you will feel transported from the closed-in casinos and overpowering glitz to a place where you can enjoy the fresh, calming scent of real pine trees.

Player registration can be found here. To learn more about sponsoring the event, access our sponsorship brochure.

FAST Cornhole Tournament at ISC East

Add some networking, drinks and friendly competition to your ISC East experience while supporting a good cause at the FAST Cornhole Tournament! At this event hosted by the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent and held in conjunction with the ISC East Crack the Tap reception, teams will mingle, compete for a $500 prize and support FAST’s efforts to connect talented and motivated individuals with opportunities in the field of security technology and life safety. Registration is limited to 16 teams.

Event Details

When: Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021, 3:30-5:00 p.m. (EST) (Check-in at 3:15 p.m.)
Location: ISC East, Javits Center, back of 1C Hall
Cost: $100 per two-person team (your registration cost is a donation to FAST)

Ready to join us? Learn more and sign up here.

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