Speakers Sought for 2025 TMAs Virtual Mid-Year Meeting

The agenda for the 2025 TMA Virtual Mid-Year Meeting (April 29–May 1, 2024) is under development and session proposals are sought on the industry’s most pressing topics. This 3-day event will focus on leadership and industry trends; technology and innovation; and operations and best practices, with sessions such as:
• Inspiring Leadership in a Changing World
• NextGen Leadership Training
• The Impact of Private Equity on the Monitoring Industry
• Practical Examples of AI in the Monitoring Center
• Emerging Technologies: Drones, Robotics, and Body Cameras
• Cybersecurity Best Practices for Monitoring Centers
• Monitoring Center Quality Assurance and Video Integration Processes
• Improving Efficiencies in Alarm and Video Processing
• Employee Engagement and Retention

If you have expertise or innovative ideas to contribute, we encourage you to submit a proposal. Together, let’s provide actionable insights and practical solutions for monitoring professionals.

For submission details and additional information, go to https://tma.us/education/speakers-smes/call-for-speakers/

Bish to Represent TMA on the SIAC Board of Directors

Industry veteran and longtime member of The Monitoring Association (TMA) George Bish has been appointed to represent TMA on the SIAC Board of Directors.

“George brings decades of experience and technical expertise to this position,” said Tim Creenan, SIAC Board Chairman. “We deeply appreciate his willingness to add this additional responsibility to his already busy schedule.”

George is currently the Director of Licensing and Compliance at Ring LLC, which Amazon owns.

George replaces industry leader and founding board member Bob Bonifas as a TMA board member. Bob is the founder of Alarm Detection Systems and has been a thought leader in our industry.

“Bob could always be counted on to see the big picture, look into the future and develop sound plans for leadership as our industry has changed and grown over the years,” said Creenan. “We want to thank him for his decades of service to SIAC and our industry.”

“This is a critical time for our industry as we face ever–changing technology,” said Creenan. “SIAC’s role of being the single voice for our industry on alarm regulations and management is more important than ever and we appreciate TMA’s support for this important mission.”

Make National Security Technician Day Special for Technicians, Jan. 23rd!

TMA joins with security industry associations ESA and SIA to celebrate National Security Technician Day on January 23rd each year. The special day serves as a reminder to recognize the commitment and expertise of security technicians—the heroes fortifying our safety. These individuals, often working behind the scenes, are instrumental in ensuring the functionality, reliability, and effectiveness of security systems that safeguard our communities, businesses, and homes. 

Their dedication goes beyond the technical; it embodies a commitment to our safety. From installing and maintaining security systems to troubleshooting and ensuring operational efficiency, these technicians are integral. Here we explore some ideas to make the day extra special. 

Ideas to Make National Security Technician Day Special for Technicians

1. Recognition and Appreciation:

Encourage businesses and communities to publicly acknowledge and thank security technicians for their invaluable contributions, even a social media shoutout is meaningful. Perhaps distribute thank-you notes or cards expressing appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

2. Professional Development Opportunities:

Organize workshops or seminars to enhance their skills or update their knowledge on the latest security technologies. Offer specialized training opportunities to further their expertise in specific areas. 

3. Security Technician of the Year Awards:

Encourage nominations and entries for the prestigious Security Technician of the Year Awards. Recognizing exemplary skills and dedication, this initiative celebrates outstanding achievements in the field and boosts morale among technicians. It’s an opportunity to honor their contributions and showcase their expertise within the industry. 

4. Celebratory Gatherings:

Host a luncheon or dinner where technicians can relax, socialize, and feel appreciated for their efforts. You can arrange team-building exercises or recreational activities to foster camaraderie among technicians and their colleagues.

5. Gifts and Tokens of Appreciation:

Provide personalized gift baskets containing tokens of appreciation. Present certificates of recognition or achievement to highlight their contributions to the safety of the community. 

6. Honoring Our Heroes 

National Security Technician Day serves as a reminder to extend gratitude, recognition, and support to these indispensable professionals whose commitment safeguards our well-being. By celebrating and honoring security technicians, we affirm their vital role in upholding safety and security across our communities.  

DICE Corporation Promotes Jennifer Balash to Senior Vice President, Head of Global Sales

DICE Corporation is thrilled to announce the promotion of Jennifer Balash to Senior Vice President and Head of Global Sales. This announcement follows the recent retirement of Avi Lupo, a long-time industry veteran who served as Executive Vice President overseeing sales and business development.

In her new role, Jen will lead and oversee DICE’s internal and external sales teams on a global scale, driving the company’s mission to deliver the most advanced AI-driven automation and video event management solutions worldwide.

A Proven Leader with a Legacy of Excellence
Jen joined DICE Corporation in 2009 as a member of the sales department. Over the years, she has excelled in roles spanning multiple departments, including her most recent position as Director of Project and Account Management. In this capacity, Jen successfully managed new system installations and deployments while leading DICE’s National Accounts division, achieving record-high revenue for the division over the past three years. Jen’s appointment reflects her unwavering dedication and the trust placed in her to lead DICE’s global sales strategy into the future.

Looking Ahead
As Senior Vice President and Head of Global Sales, Jen will play a critical role in shaping DICE Corporation’s expansion and reinforcing its position as a leader in the security and automation industries.

For more information about DICE Corporation, please visit www.dicecorp.com.