TSi Stands Apart With ISO 42001 AI Certification

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As part of its unwavering commitment to innovation and ethical technology adoption, Tech Systems Inc. (TSi) is proud to announce it has earned the ISO/IEC 42001 Certification, the world’s first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS). The certification was conducted by Schellman Compliance, LLC, an ANAB and UKAS accredited Certification Body.

Published in December 2023 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO/IEC 42001 sets a global framework for responsible AI management across an organization’s lifecycle. It promotes transparency, fairness, accountability, and safeguards against unintended bias and misuse.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the security industry, manufacturers and system integrators alike are being challenged to implement and manage increasingly complex technologies. TSi’s achievement of ISO 42001 ensures the company remains a leader in the ethical and responsible integration of AI systems.

“This new certification will allow TSi to establish, maintain, and continuously improve AI management for our clients,” said TSi President, Wayne Smith. “AI is being rapidly integrated into the core of security solutions. Our ability to manage data quality, privacy, and algorithmic transparency will be essential as this technology becomes pervasive in our clients’ critical infrastructure.”

TSi’s history with ISO standards is long and distinguished. The company is already certified in ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 27001 for information security. With the addition of ISO 42001, TSi becomes one of the few security integrators in the industry to hold all three certifications, demonstrating comprehensive compliance across physical, digital, and now AI-based systems.

“Achieving ISO 42001 was no small feat,” added Smith. “But we believe it’s necessary to maintain our commitment to fanatical customer service. In the near future, clients won’t just prefer certified AI standards…they’ll require them. We want our clients to know we’re already there.”

TSi is a leading security systems integrator that brings subsystems together through planning, design, implementation, and service. Its signature F.O.C.U.S.™ services provide 24/7 unconditional support, with guaranteed on-site response and 100% functionality upon completion of every service call.

In addition to achieving ISO 42001 Certification, TSi has recently announced plans to bring its unique, customer-first approach to international markets, a natural next step in its mission to deliver extraordinary service and secure infrastructure around the globe.

To learn more about TSi and its innovative approach to integrated security solutions, visit www.techsystemsinc.com.

Elite Interactive Receives Strategic Investment From CIVC Partners

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Elite Interactive Solutions, the industry pioneer in remote video guarding and real-time crime prevention, is excited to announce an investment from Chicago-based private equity firm CIVC Partners. The transaction, coordinated by security-sector investment bank Barnes Associates, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of both Elite and the broader remote guarding industry.

“This is a defining moment not just for Elite, but for the entire category of proactive security,” said Aria Kozak, founder of Elite and a 2024 inductee into the Security Industry Hall of Fame. “After an exhaustive process, CIVC emerged as the ideal partner to help us scale our vision. This strategic investment enables us to fully capitalize on our unmatched ability to prevent crime, drive apprehensions, and deliver industry-leading customer retention.”

Founded in 2007, Elite is widely recognized as the category leader in remote guarding, delivering a proven solution that consistently outperforms traditional guard services at a fraction of the cost. With a nationwide footprint across retail, multifamily, automotive, industrial, and campus markets — and an enterprise-focused client base — Elite is the first security firm to eliminate false alarms at scale and maintains a Law Enforcement Advisory Board made up of former police chiefs.

CIVC Partners, which has deployed more than $2.9 billion of capital across 88 platform investments since 1989, will provide both capital and strategic guidance to further accelerate Elite’s growth trajectory. Houlihan Lokey advised CIVC on the transaction.

“This is a milestone deal for the industry and a transformational opportunity for Elite,” said Michael Zatulov, who has been promoted to CEO as part of the growth initiative. “Private businesses and public agencies are increasingly overwhelmed by crime and ineffective security measures. Elite has already proven it can deliver exceptional results at scale. With CIVC’s backing, we are poised to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and build a truly next-generation security platform.”

Zatulov, who joined Elite in 2017 and most recently served as president and COO, succeeds Kozak as CEO. Kozak will remain actively involved as chairman of the board.

“It’s been a tremendous honor to learn from and work alongside Aria,” added Zatulov. “His legacy as a pioneer in this space is unmatched, and I’m humbled to continue the mission he started — to reimagine security as a proactive, intelligence-driven service.”

About CIVC Partners

CIVC Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm investing in high growth business services companies. Since 1989, the firm has invested more than $2.9 billion in 88 platforms and manages capital from CIVC Partners Fund VII. Learn more at civc.com.

About Elite Interactive Solutions

Elite Interactive Solutions is the leading provider of remote guarding and crime prevention services. In 2024 alone, Elite directly prevented nearly 80,000 crimes and assisted in more than 1,000 arrests and detainments. Its four-pillar model — technology, people, practices, and partnerships — delivers unmatched results and value. Elite was honored with The Monitoring Association’s 2024 Monitoring Technology Marvel Award and ranks No. 25 on the SDM 100. Visit eliteisi.com to learn more.

JamAlert Awarded Best in Show at ESX 2025 Innovation Awards

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) is honored to announce that JamAlertâ„¢, the revolutionary new cellular jamming detection device, has been awarded Best in Show at ESX’s 2025 Innovation Awards. According to ESX.com, the Innovation Awards “identify the next-gen products and services that will offer significant growth opportunities for dealers, integrators and monitoring centers.â€

Security industry manufacturers and service providers could enter new products that had been released since January 1, 2024. Judges selected the top ten overall to compete in the TechVision Challenge, held live at ESX to determine the Best in Show award winner.

JamAlert instantly notifies the control panel when cellular communication is being compromised, empowering security professionals to stay ahead of the threat of cellular jammers, a growing industry-wide problem. Production and distribution of cellular jammers is on the rise in the U.S. These illegal devices are being used to defeat alarm system communications, allowing thieves to enter compromised facilities undetected. When jammed, cellular alarm signals never make it to the monitoring center and no authorities are dispatched. By detecting cellular jamming on multiple frequencies, JamAlert offers a way to mitigate potential losses.

“Competing in the TechVision Challenge was thrilling,†said Aaron McGhee, product manager of control panels at DMP. “We developed this device based on requests and feedback from our customers. This type of innovation is what makes DMP products exceptional.â€

“JamAlert is positioned to make a huge impact in the industry,†added Jon Adams, vice president of sales at DMP. “The fact that it works with DMP and non-DMP panels offers a wide variety of applications. It’s a security system for your security system.â€

JamAlert can be added to intrusion systems in retail stores, financial institutions, businesses and homes for an extra layer of protection against the growing threat of jamming devices that interrupt cellular alarm transmission.

Learn more at DMP.com/JamAlert.

TMA President Honors Retiring TMA CEO with Mel Mahler Award

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.On Thurs., June 19th, in front of a crowd attending the closing luncheon of ESX 2025 in Atlanta, TMA President Steve Butkovich honored TMA CEO Celia T. Besore for her “leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field†by presenting her TMA’s most prestigious Mel Mahler Award. Formerly known as the President’s Award, this award is bestowed at the discretion of the TMA president in recognition of outstanding contributions within his/her tenure. This award represents extraordinary commitment to the values of the advancement of the professional monitoring industry.

In his remarks, Steve stated, “Celia has shaped policy, elevated standards, and built bridges across the alarm and monitoring landscape. Her name is synonymous with leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field. Across decades of service, her influence has been felt not just in her work at The Monitoring Association (TMA), but by the countless professionals she’s worked with and inspired along the way. She’s not only devoted her career to supporting this industry, but she’s helped to define it.  Her passion, integrity, and tireless efforts embody the spirit of the Mel Mahler Award and its enduring legacy.â€

ESA Chairman Kevin Stone also honored Celia for her many contributions to the industry.

Celia announced her retirement just weeks ago after 19 years at TMA. In receiving the award, she shared, “It’s going to be very hard to walk away. Mel Mahler was someone I knew well. He was a mentor. This award means so much to me.â€

Scott R. Elkins of Zeus Fire and Security Named Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award winner by EY US

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Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) today announced that Scott R. Elkins, CEO of Zeus Fire and Security was named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Greater Philadelphia Award winner. Entrepreneur Of The Year is the preeminent competitive awards program for entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies. For 40 years, EY US has celebrated ambitious entrepreneurs who are transforming industries, impacting communities and creating long-term value.

Scott was chosen by an independent panel of past winners, top CEOs and business leaders. Judges assessed candidates on long-term value creation, entrepreneurial spirit, purpose-driven commitment and significant growth and impact.

A second-generation fire and security entrepreneur, Scott built Universal Atlantic Systems into a thriving business before leading its acquisition and becoming the founding CEO of Zeus in 2022. Since then, he has transformed Zeus into one of the fastest-growing, tech-enabled life safety companies in the nation, completing 17 acquisitions, doubling profits, and expanding to nearly 800 employees across seven hubs.

“I am deeply honored to receive the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® award, but this recognition truly belongs to the extraordinary team at Zeus Fire & Security. Their dedication, expertise, and shared commitment to our mission of protecting People, Property, and Profits have made this achievement possible. I am also grateful to Access Holdings, our Private Equity Sponsor, for their continued partnership and support in helping us scale with purpose and build a modern and enduring tech enabled business that’s redefining excellence in our industry.” stated Elkins.

As a Greater Philadelphia award winner, Scott is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 National Awards. The National Award winners, including the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced in November at the Strategic Growth Forum®, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies. The Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner will then move on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Award in June 2026.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year                                                                                                                       

Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally.

 

The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum® in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

Shannon Woodman to Receive Prestigious Moody Award for Leadership In Fighting Verified Response in Seattle

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Shannon Woodman, Chief Executive Officer of Washington Alarm, will be honored with the prestigious William N. Moody Award on June 17th at ESX 2025 in Atlanta.  Created in 2004 by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), the Moody award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates a passion for advancing positive alarm management and best industry practices.

“Shannon has a long history of involvement and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association, NetOne International, and as Chairman of the Western Chapter and Board Member of the Security Integration and Life Safety Association of the Northwest,†said SIAC Board Chairman Tim Creenan. “When our industry was challenged by the Seattle Police Department’s sudden implementation of verified response, Shannon stepped up to lead an industry coalition to support the model ordinance and retain police response for the citizens our industry and the police serve and protect.â€

“Her commitment and organizational skills have been instrumental in putting the issue in front of elected officials and Seattle’s new chief of police.â€

“My family has been in the security and life safety field for 82 years now,†said Woodman. “I learned from an early age the value of the service we provide the community and the importance of giving back to our community and our industry,†said Woodman. “It has been a privilege to work with SIAC on the verified response update in Seattle. We value their expertise and guidance as we collaborate with our colleagues, law enforcement, and elected officials to make our community as safe as possible.â€

About the William N. Moody Award   

The William N. Moody Award was established in 2004 by the SIAC Board of Directors to recognize those who embody Bill’s dedication to alarm management issues. The award honors individuals who reflect attributes that include integrity, fairness and perseverance in the face of adversity. 

About Washington Alarm Company

Founded by Jack Woodman and now under the leadership of Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm has served Washington State for over 82 years. The company’s in-house UL-listed Five Diamond Certified Central Station in Seattle monitors over 10,000 customers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security.

About SIAC

SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues –communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement.  SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). For more information, go to www.SIACinc.org,  www.siacinc.wordpress.com, or follow us on www.twitter.com/siacinc.

New Cellular Jamming Detector from DMP

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) introduced a revolutionary new device that detects when cellular frequencies are being jammed. JamAlert™ instantly notifies the control panel when cellular communication is being compromised, empowering security professionals to stay ahead of the threat.

JamAlert solves a growing industry-wide problem, particularly for high-end retail businesses and financial institutions. Production and distribution of cellular jammers is on the rise in the U.S. These illegal devices are being used to defeat alarm system communications, allowing thieves to enter compromised facilities undetected. When jammed, cellular alarm signals never make it to the monitoring center and no authorities are dispatched. By detecting cellular jamming on multiple frequencies, JamAlert offers a way to mitigate potential losses.

“JamAlert is a groundbreaking device in this industry,” said Warren Hill, executive director of product management at DMP. “DMP dealers can offer this solution to their entire customer base. It’s backward and forward compatible with DMP panels, as well as universally compatible with other panels.”

Add JamAlert to security systems in retail stores, financial institutions, businesses and homes for an extra layer of protection against the growing threat of jamming devices that interrupt cellular alarm transmission.

Learn more at DMP.com/JamAlert.

Membership Elects 2025-2027 Board of Directors

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On April 24th, TMA members approved the proposed slate of Board of Directors candidates for the 2025-2027 term. Please join in congratulating our returning and new TMA Board of Directors.

Executive Committee

  • Steve Butkovich, CPI Security (Immediate Past President)
  • Alan Gillmore, IV, Gillmore Security (President)
  • Wes Usie, Guardian Alarm Systems (Vice President)
  • Daniel Oppenheim, Affiliated Monitoring (Vice President)
  • Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm (Treasurer)

Board Reappointments by Member Category Representation

  • Mark Miller, Johnson Controls (National Representative)
  • Scott R. Elkins, Zeus Fire & Security (National Representative)
  • Chester Donati, DMC Security Services, Inc. (Regional Representative)
  • Jack Doyle, Doyle Security (Regional Representative)
  • Tim Westphal, Bay Alarm (Regional Representative)
  • Caroline Brown, Security Central (Contract Monitoring Representative)
  • Mark Hillenburg, DMP (Associate Representative)
  • Stanley Oppenheim, DGA Security Systems, Inc. (Member at Large)

TMA CEO Announces Retirement

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The Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association (TMA) announces the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Celia T. Besore, MBA, FASAE, CAE. Celia has served in successive positions during her tenure with the organization, which spans over 19 years of service. Her final day at TMA is Friday, July 18th.

“With Celia’s guidance, TMA has experienced consistent growth in membership and influence in our industry. We’ve celebrated marked advancements in TMA programs (ASAP, Five Diamond, and FirstNet), standards, and advocacy,†stated TMA President Steve Butkovich. “Her dedication to the monitoring industry has left a lasting impact on our members and partners in the security industry, public safety, and law enforcement. As a result of her competent leadership, TMA is positioned for continued success. The TMA Board deeply thanks Celia for her service to TMA and our industry.â€

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Celia first joined the then-CSAA staff in April of 1999 as director of marketing & communications, later becoming VP of Marketing and Programs. In the ensuing 11 years, she also guided TMA’s membership and education initiatives—all the while achieving consistent growth of the organization. In August of 2010, she left TMA to become the executive director and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). She returned to TMA in January 2017, assuming the position of vice president of membership and programs. In November 2018, Celia was appointed executive director of TMA, later promoted to CEO.

“I am overwhelmed with both gratitude and pride as I reflect on my time at TMA where I have been afforded many opportunities to grow and advance in my career,†shared Celia. “Above all, my greatest rewards and inspiration have been appreciated in the moments of collaboration with the many dedicated and passionate professionals who are dedicated to the protection of life and property. I will always treasure the relationships I have made over the course of my tenure at TMA.â€

Most notable among her accomplishments and contributions to the association during her tenure are: assisting with the development of the original Operator Level 1 and 2 Online courses; the introduction of social media; the creation of the Five Diamond program; the development of the Excellence Awards; the development of an marketing campaign for NAMTSE, which included a virtual expo and was recognized with an award by the American Society of Association Executives; the establishment of the first Compliance Community, which created an online resource of state licensing requirements; and the writing of the history of the first 50 years of the Association. She is also especially proud of TMA’s response to the pandemic, an unprecedented challenge for the industry and association. TMA supported its members during this period by offering highly attended weekly town halls covering the most critical issues of that week and providing them with many other resources and assistance.

Those wishing to express wishes to Celia before July 18th may reach her by email at ceo@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4913. Thereafter, she may be emailed at celia@strategia.cc.

Vivint Refreshes Brand Identity

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Vivint has renewed its brand identity, unveiling a new visual identity that represents both an evolution and expansion of its focus: redefining a truly smarter home experience to include smarter energy management.

“We are entering a rapid phase of innovation, where energy management concerns are beginning to rival security concerns,” said David Porter, Managing Director of Vivint. “As part of NRG and under new leadership, Vivint is poised to lead this phase and redefine the smart home experience like no one else can. By integrating security and energy management, and making it accessible to millions more homes, we’re at the start of an exciting new chapter for our customers and for Vivint.”

Vivint was acquired by NRG, a Fortune 500 energy and home services company, in March of 2023. NRG brings smart energy solutions to millions of homes and businesses in the U.S. and Canada. The company’s recent consumer research found that nearly 70 percent of people want an “all-in-one’ unified smart home management system inclusive of energy management.

Recently, Reliant, also an NRG company, announced the Smarter Home Bundle, a joint offer from Vivint and Reliant that enables customers to start their smarter home journey. Qualifying current and new Reliant customers receive a free Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro and Vivint Smart Thermostat paired with complimentary installation to ensure everything is properly set up from day one.

Vivint said its brand updates include a new logo crafted to emphasize the focus on the home and what it means to live intelligently. The company said its wordmark carries the familiarity of the prior identity but with a more approachable and human touch, and the new home icon conveys the idea of intelligence coming into the home and represents the brand’s unique approach that has brought peace of mind for millions of families.

This announcement appeared May 5, 2025 on SDMmag.com.