What is Male Allyship … and How Can We Get More of It??
In 2024, the security industry is still largely populated my men. In every level and role, men outnumber women. For the industry to make the necessary strides that will attract, retain, and develop women, we need a network of male allies who are willing to advocate for and support the advancement of women in the workplace.
During this interactive panel discussion, we will explore the pivotal role men can play in creating inclusive environments and empowering women to thrive in leadership roles. Among the topics explored include defining male allyship, practical strategies for recognizing and challenging gender bias, cultivating a culture of allyship and intentional actions to promote women in leadership positions. This session is intended to offer transparency on topics that will help provide insight and direction to the Security LeadHER audience.
Speakers
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Chris PetersonFounder and Principal, Vector FirmChris Peterson has almost 30 years of experience in sales and sales leadership, with a focus on system integrators and their technology partners. Chris started Vector Firm in 2010, and today it is the leading sales and marketing consulting and training business serving the security technology industry. Chris lives in Orlando with his wife Shannon and daughter Manhattan, and is a graduate from the University of Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
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Julaine SimmonsVice President of Security and Electronic Systems, M.C. DeanJulaine Simmons, vice president of Security & Electronic Systems at M.C. Dean, oversees division operations, customer growth, and employee development to keep the company at the forefront of the security industry. She also serves as a program executive for federal agencies and commercial sector customers. Having worked with M.C. Dean for more than 13 years, she has helped the company expand relationships with some of our top Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers, advancing M.C. Dean’s mission-critical capabilities.
Julaine is an executive sponsor of Women at M.C. Dean, an affinity group established to support female employees across professional fields. She represents the company at universities and industry organizations, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Women in Technology, providing mentorship and advocating for career growth of women in engineering and technology.
Julaine earned her Master’s of Science in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Tech with a focus on fiber optics communication and telecommunications, and has been working in the security industry for over 20 years.
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Kevin EngelhardtPresident, Securitas Technology USKevin is a results-driven commercial leader who is passionate about partnering with businesses and organizations to help create a more secure and efficient world. With more than 20 years of senior operations and financial management responsibility, his experience in the security industry keeps him focused intensely on operational excellence and client experience.
Currently serving as the President of Securitas Technology, North America, Kevin leads all commercial activity to drive results across the organization. His top priority is delivering the service that clients know and expect while empowering them through the latest in security innovation.
As a champion of change and advocate of women in security, Kevin seeks to bring diverse perspectives to the table for the ultimate benefit of our client. As a leader Kevin’s legacy will be one of cultivating a culture of clear communication, employee development and recognition.
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John NemerofskyChief Operating Officer, SAGE IntegrationIn the security industry John Nemerofsky stands out as a beacon of innovation and leadership. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, John has dedicated his career to advancing the intelligence and integration of security technology—protecting the people, facilities, and reputation of enterprise clients nationwide. As a trailblazer in security integration, John is shaping the future, safeguarding enterprises and inspiring the next generation of security professionals.
In 2019, John assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer at SAGE Integration, a national security integration provider, operating across 62 major U.S. metro areas, boasting a team of over 19,000 installer partner specialists. Under John’s strategic guidance, the company has become a formidable force in the security industry.
Early in his career, John played a pivotal role in the growth of a security integration company, contributing significantly to annual sales of $140 million. His success in both corporate and entrepreneurial environments underscores his versatility and business acumen. Additionally, during his tenure at Niscayah – now Stanley Security Systems – John was instrumental in the organization’s growth to over $1 billion of revenue.
Beyond his role at Sage, John is deeply engaged in the security industry on multiple fronts. He sits on the boards of PSA, SIA, FAST (Foundation for Advancing Security Talent)and Security Sales & Integration Magazine; and is chairman of the board at SecurityXchange, showcasing his commitment to driving industry advancements. John contributes quarterly columns to Security Business Magazine, sharing his expertise for the betterment of the industry.
In 2023, John took on the role of vice chairman at the Foundation of Advancing Security Talent (FAST), a testament to his dedication to nurturing the next generation of security professionals. His passion for recognizing industry excellence shined at 2023 ISC East in NYC where he presented awards to the top ten technicians of the year.
Beyond board service, John works across the industry as chairperson of PSA’s Leadership Committee and is an active member of PSA’s Marketing Committee, demonstrating his commitment to fostering collaboration and driving industry initiatives. John is also deeply involved in the Security Industry Association (SIA). He serves as a board member , Marketing Membership Committee Chairperson as well as on the Women In Security Forum’s Charitable Giving Committee.
Recognized for his outstanding industry contributions, John was awarded the PSA Captains, Hang 10, and High Ride awards at PSA Convention in 2023. Away from the professional arena, John finds fulfillment in giving back to the community. As a proud graduate of the Fox School of Business at Temple University, John stays abreast of the latest industry trends, continuously expanding his knowledge to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of security technology.
As a board member Mission 500, he dedicates his spare time to philanthropic endeavors, further solidifying his commitment to making a positive impact.
At the heart of John’s endeavors is family. His wife Holly, daughters Danielle and Diana, bonus children Ansana and Foxx, and two Aussie Doodles, Edmund and June. In life, Nemerofsky crafts a tapestry of love, support, and shared experiences.