Newman Joins TMA as New Director of Strategic Growth & Membership

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.The Monitoring Association (TMA) is pleased to announce the addition of Evan Newman to its team as Director of Strategic Growth & Membership. In this newly created role, Newman will lead strategic efforts to grow, engage, and retain TMA’s membership, bringing more than 10 years of membership and marketing experience to further support the association’s growth and commitment to the monitoring and security industry. Today is Newman’s first day at TMA.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to step into this new role with TMA. Throughout my association career, I’ve learned that a rising tide lifts all ships,†stated Newman. “TMA’s strategic focus on growth is what drew me to this role, and I look forward to collaborating with current and future members, as well as industry stakeholders, to drive sustainable growth that strengthens the association’s long-term impact on the industry.â€

“Evan joins our team at a pivotal moment for the association,†commented TMA CEO Whitney A. Doll. “His strong foundation and demonstrated leadership in organizational growth and member engagement position us well as we build momentum and expand our impact in the months and years ahead.â€

In addition to leading TMA’s membership growth, Newman will also focus on advancing the organization’s programs and revenue initiatives inclusive of the promotion and sales of member programs, services, and sponsorship opportunities. He will also represent TMA at industry events to expand partnerships and visibility.

Newman brings more than 10 years of progressive experience in association membership and business marketing to his position at TMA. Most recently, Newman served as senior manager of membership at the Snow and Ice Management Association where he led membership marketing and strategic planning and oversaw the recruitment of new members and education prospects. Before that, he worked at Practice Greenhealth and the Ohio Trucking Association. Mr. Newman earned his Bachelor of Science, Communication Studies & Marketing from West Liberty University and his Master of Business Administration, Project Management from Louisiana State University at Shreveport.

Newman can be contacted by email at enewman@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4918.

Eastern Bank Announces Owen Security Solutions As A Commercial Banking Customer

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Eastern Bank is pleased to announce Owen Security Solutions, Inc. (“Owen Security”) as a new commercial banking customer. Founded in 1973, Owen Security provides comprehensive security alarm, fire protection and smart video monitoring solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, government and small business customers. Eastern is providing a comprehensive banking solution to support Owen Security’s working capital for growth initiatives, as well as a revolving line of credit and full suite of cash management services for ongoing operations.

“For over 50 years, Owen Security has helped businesses and homes stay safe, and we look forward to supporting their continued plans for growth and daily operations,” said Greg Buscone, Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Banking Officer of Eastern Bank.

“Eastern Bank understands the banking needs not only of the security alarm sector but also of family-owned businesses, and that means a lot as the second generation of my family leading this business,” said Justin Owen, Owner & CEO of Owen Security Solutions. “The team’s expertise and responsiveness have made the process of our working together seamless, and we value their commitment to helping us grow and serve our customers.”

Eastern Bank provides a range of commercial financing offerings to help companies across many industries improve cash flow, increase efficiencies and build for the future. Commercial lending solutions include working capital/lines of credit, equipment/term loans, real estate loans, acquisition financing, asset-based lending, franchise lending and employee stock ownership plan-related financing.

The Commercial Banking team advising Owen Security includes: Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Banking Officer Greg Buscone; Senior Vice President and Commercial Group Director Brendan O’Neill; Senior Vice President and Team Leader Matthew Hunt; and Vice President and Portfolio Manager Isis Ortiz-Belton.

TMA Dispatch – Winter issue Released

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The winter issue of the TMA Dispatch is now available! 

Our Cover Story…A serious regulatory proposal now under review by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has the potential to significantly disrupt the alarm and life-safety industry nationwide. A company called NextNav has petitioned to acquire a portion of the lower 900MHz band where many low power alarm devices currently operate. If this proposal goes through, harmful interference and channel crowding could result in the widespread failure of current alarm devices and a significant threat to lives and property. Replacing potentially hundreds of millions of devices could cost billions, overwhelm technicians, and disrupt supply chains. While this is not yet a crisis, it is a clear warning—and the time to act is now. 

Our Guest Column…Our industry is facing a growing skills-transfer challenge that affects every stage of alarm response and on-site resolution. To help bridge this divide, many organizations are beginning to explore AI-supported tools. Learn how your business can achieve greater success. 

In Technology…Agentic AI is not just another tool that adds a layer of automation. It represents a different category of capability. These systems can observe, analyze context, decide on a course of action. Gain new insights into how AI is rapidly changing monitoring center operations.

In Research…Did you know that approximately a third of apartment renters are willing to pay an additional $60 per month amenity fee for a complete smart home and security amenity package, representing an $8.5B market opportunity for multifamily. Read to learn more about this growing market.

In Marketing…When it comes to marketing, do you feel as though you are drowning trying to to be everywhere? TMA Marketing and Communications Committee Co-Chair David Morgan unveils what the winners are doing differently.

Read these and more in the latest issue the TMA Dispatch now!

DOWNLOAD HERE

VIEW ONLINE

Axis Communications acquires FF Group

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Axis Communications announced it has acquired Prague-based FF Group, a provider of license plate verification solutions.

“Acquiring FF Group will strengthen our competitiveness, knowledge, and capabilities in license plate verification, further solidifying our leadership in the industry,” said Axis Communications CEO Ray Mauritsson in a statement. “FF Group has been a valued partner to Axis since 2017, delivering competitive and innovative applications, as well as expert knowledge. I’m very pleased to welcome FF Group to Axis, and I am confident that this acquisition will drive value creation for our customers.”

FF Group was founded in 2016 and is based in Prague, Czech Republic. The company’s software combines license plate recognition, intelligent data processing, and camera-to-camera communication technologies. Its solutions are deployed in more than 30 countries.

TMA Mourns the Passing of Past President Bob Bean

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TMA learned of the passing of it much beloved Past President Robert Bean on Friday, November 21st. He leaves a lasting legacy as a business leader whose generosity uplifted colleagues, inspired innovation, and opened doors for others. His unwavering commitment to serving his community reflects a life defined not just by success, but by the positive impact he made on everyone around him.

In presenting Bob with one of TMA’s highest honors, the Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award, in 2021, then President Don Young, commented, “Two words that epitomized Stan Lott’s character are integrity and dedication. These words, likewise, can be attributed to this year’s award winner today. As chair of the Membership Committee, the award winner was a driving force to increase TMA membership, including international members. Countless hours were devoted to TMA’s interests in ESX, which served as TMA’s Mid-year Meeting for a number of years. He is truly all that Stanley Lott represented.”

In accepting his award via Zoom, Bean, full of emotion, remarked, “I am humbled. This is the highest honor that TMA can bestow on any member. Putting me in the category along with the other previous honorees is definitely humbling. I thank TMA very much for this great award.”

Bean sponsored the TMA board dinner for many years, first through his company and in later years personally. During his tenure as TMA President, he purchased a home in New Jersey so he could be closer to TMA staff in Virginia.

Additional information will be shared here as it becomes available.

TMA Welcomes New Chief of Staff

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The Monitoring Association (TMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Franklin to the organization’s newly created position of Chief of Staff. An accomplished association professional with nearly 20 years of experience, Franklin’s talents span event planning, operations, and customer service. Franklin’s first day at TMA is Mon., Nov. 24th.

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.“I am honored to step into this pivotal new role at TMA,†commented Franklin. “This role presents an exciting opportunity to work closely with the association’s leadership and help drive the initiatives that advance TMA’s mission. I look forward to working closely with our members and stakeholders to enhance the value we deliver and to support the continued growth and impact of the association and the industry.”

TMA CEO Whitney A. Doll said, “Jessica brings a unique combination of talents and skills to our team at TMA. She is an outstanding leader who has consistently demonstrated the ability to connect with stakeholders at all levels. Her energy and commitment to service excellence will be an asset to TMA as we look to future growth.â€

As Chief of Staff, Franklin will serve as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the CEO and provide cross-functional collaboration and project management. Additionally, she will lead the planning and execution of TMA meetings and events, including the Mid-Year Meeting, Annual Meeting, OPSTech, and other TMA-sponsored receptions, dinners, and events.

Franklin can be contacted by email at jfranklin@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4917.

COPS Monitoring Promotes Dream Rovira to Assistant Site Manager of Lewisville, TX Operations

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COPS Monitoring announced the promotion of Dream Rovira to Assistant Site Manager of its Lewisville Operations Department. The promotion recognizes Dream’s strong leadership, outstanding communication skills, and her proven ability to motivate and inspire others, qualities that have made her an essential part of the company’s success.

Since joining COPS more than three years ago, Dream has advanced through key roles, including Dispatcher, Shift Supervisor, and Shift Manager. From the start, she has demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence, earning recognition for her reliability, initiative, and natural leadership.

Known for her collaborative approach and ability to bring people together, Dream fosters an atmosphere of unity and professionalism that reflects the culture COPS is known for. Her structured, methodical leadership style, combined with her focus on clear communication and accountability, has contributed to the continued strength of the Lewisville team.

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.In her new role, Dream will lead the Lewisville office’s training program, focusing on developing dispatchers, mentoring shift managers, and providing ongoing guidance that supports the continued excellence of the operations team. Working closely with the Lewisville Site Manager, she will ensure that every team member is fully equipped to deliver the exceptional service and reliability that define COPS Monitoring.

“Dream’s promotion is a direct reflection of her dedication and the leadership qualities she brings to our organization,†said Jim McMullen, President of COPS Monitoring. “Her ability to inspire confidence, promote teamwork, and lead by example perfectly represents the values that define COPS. We are proud to see her continue to grow and contribute to the ongoing success of our Lewisville operations.â€

When asked about her new role, Dream shared, “I’m excited about this opportunity to use my skills and help develop the management team and dispatchers to be the best versions of themselves. I look forward to bringing new perspectives and ideas to our training program and continuing to build on our culture of growth and success.â€

Dream’s promotion reflects COPS Monitoring’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and developing internal talent. By expanding leadership within the Lewisville Operations Department, COPS continues to strengthen its position as the industry leader in professional monitoring and uphold its mission to deliver the highest quality service through caring professionals supported by leading edge technology.

TMA has an exciting new leadership opportunity!

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We’re seeking a strategic, results-oriented Director of Strategic Growth & Membership to lead our membership, sponsorship, and business development initiatives.

This highly visible role is central to driving organizational growth — expanding our membership base, deepening member engagement, and increasing non-dues revenue through sponsorships and product sales.

The ideal candidate is a confident relationship-builder with a proven track record in membership development, sales, and sponsor cultivation. We’re looking for a proactive, people-focused leader energized by the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and help shape the future of a growing association.

If you’re passionate about growth, connection, and impact — we’d love to hear from you!

View the full position description at:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to wdoll@tma.us.

Alan Gillmore, IV Assumes Presidency of The Monitoring Association

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Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.The Monitoring Association (TMA) is proud to announce that Alan Gillmore, IV, President of Gillmore Security, has been appointed as TMA’s 38th President. Gillmore assumed the role at the conclusion of TMA’s 75th Anniversary Annual Meeting, held on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, in Palm Springs, California.

A long-time volunteer and dedicated leader within TMA, Gillmore has served in numerous leadership capacities over the years, most recently as Co-Chair of the Membership Committee. His commitment to member engagement, innovation, and industry advancement has made a lasting impact on the association and its initiatives.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to be chosen to lead TMA’s growth, innovation, and collaboration efforts over the next two years,†said Gillmore. “TMA is the industry leader in education, standards development, and thought leadership. I am eager to advance these areas while finding new avenues for growth and modernization. I look forward to working with the TMA Board and staff to continue our legacy of excellence and support our great industry, which has given us all so much.â€

Outgoing TMA President Steve Butkovich praised Gillmore’s leadership and vision, noting his long-standing dedication to the association and the industry at large.

“Alan’s deep understanding of our industry and his proven leadership within TMA make him the ideal person to guide our association into the future,†said Butkovich. “His strategic mindset and collaborative spirit will undoubtedly take TMA to new heights as we continue to evolve and serve our members in an ever-changing environment.â€

As President, Gillmore will focus on advancing TMA’s mission and strengthening its role as a thought leader in the monitoring and security industry. His priorities for the coming term include:

  • Membership growth and expansion, including outreach into new vertical markets
  • Supporting and expanding the ASAP Service initiative
  • Enhancing collaboration and alignment with other industry associations
  • Driving standards development and promoting adoption of existing standards such as AVS-01
  • Fostering thought leadership and education to help the industry navigate a rapidly changing landscape

Learn more about President Gillmore and his vision for TMA in the next issue of TMA Dispatch.

Hertel, Martini, and Prendergast honored with top TMA Awards at 75th Anniversary Annual Meeting

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TMA President Steve Butkovich honored the outstanding contributions of three individuals last week in at the 2025 TMA 75th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Palm Springs, CA.

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.On Mon., Oct. 6th, at the General Membership Meeting, Butkovich presented the 2025 Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award to AICC legal counsel John Prendergast, managing partner, Blooston, Mordkofsky, Dickens & Prendergast, LLP, in recognition of his unwavering advocacy efforts on behalf of AICC and TMA members. The Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award, established in 1991 to honor its namesake, a dedicated leader and past president, recognizes exceptional long-term TMA leadership and support.

Prendergast expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am deeply honored to win the Stan Lott award, especially given the outstanding people that have won it before me; and I have been privileged to have worked with all of the dedicated and professional TMA members and staff, past and present, that have made representing the alarm industry so rewarding.â€

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.Also presented at the General Business Meeting, former APCO President Stephen Martini, ENP. CPE, director, Metro Nashville Dept. of Emergency Communications, received the 2025 Public Sector Award. This special honor, established in 2015, is presented by TMA to a public safety professional whose contributions have supported the monitoring industry’s mission to protect and save life and property. Martini has been a longtime champion for TMA’s ASAP Service.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition. The work TMA is doing with the ASAP Program is saving time, saving lives, and reducing workloads on emergency communications professionals,” said Martini. “This commitment to the public we serve and the professionals we depend on to carry out this no-fail mission is critical to the success of public safety response for the next decade.â€

Enter TMA's 2026 Awards with a deadline of April 3, 2026.On Wed., Oct. 8th, at the closing Gala Dinner, Butkovich presented the 2025 Mel Mahler Award to Morgan Hertel, Rapid Response Monitoring Services Inc. The Mel Mahler Award is presented at the discretion of the TMA president in recognition of outstanding contributions within his/her tenure. Hertel has served as a volunteer leader for decades, contributing his knowledge, experience, and expertise to the TMA community.

“Thank you. I am truly honored to receive this recognition. I have always believed that active participation in our industry associations is not just beneficial, but essential for our collective success,” shared Hertel. “The Monitoring Association is, without a doubt, the most important organization in our industry. This achievement is not mine alone. It is built upon the foundation laid by those who came before me, and it is shared with the dedicated leaders who will follow. It is through this collaborative spirit that we are able to achieve such meaningful results.”