SIA RISE Profile: Brett Miller of ASSA ABLOY

Read our interview with Brett Miller, Integrated Solutions Specialist, ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions, as the Security Industry Association (SIA) spotlights a young professional on the RISE!

Are you a young security professional under 40? We want your story! Contact Bryan Miller at bmiller@securityindustry.org to be featured in a monthly profile!

What first got you interested in security and safety as a career choice?

I think the security industry chose me more than I chose it. I was looking for a career change, and I took a position working for a small independent distributor. After a few months, I was sure this industry was the right fit for me. The ever-changing advances in technology really peaked my interest as well as the unlimited possibilities for advancement within the security and safety field.

What has your career path been?

I started out in a warehouse position for a small distributor, which eventually led to my move to an inside sales position within the company after it was purchased by a national wholesale distributor. After learning the ins and outs of sales and broadening my product knowledge over the course of 10 years, I took a Regional Sales Manager (RSM) position with Nortek Security & Control.

During my time there, I managed a large territory that included the Northeast and Eastern Canada. While there I held many job titles from RSM to Regional Systems Specialist to Strategic Account Manager and Account Executive. In my current role, I am an Integrated Solutions Specialist for ASSA ABLOY, handling business development in the New York and New Jersey markets.

Who has influenced you or mentored you — either within the security field or outside?

It’s tough to name just one person so I will name a couple. John LaFond was a huge influence in my career path when he hired me to be his RSM in the Northeast, when I had no outside sales experience. He handed me the reigns and told me to run the territory like I owned it. He was always supportive and pushing me to be the best I could be. In my current role, I would say Mark Duato and Kevin Hendershot have been my biggest influences. In a short period of time under their tutelage, I have learned more about the security and safety industry from a business development perspective than I had in the previous 10 years.

What do you think you need to enhance your career?

I feel that I just need to keep learning. Whether it is learning about new products that my company releases or new technologies that spring up in the industry, always keep learning. I also think that industry certifications fall into this as well. An industry certification shows that you have taken the time to master your trade and strive to be a leader within the security and safety field.

Any advice to young professionals just starting out in the industry?

I would tell them that the opportunities are endless within the security and safety industry. One of the key things that they should do is network. Join groups like SIA and take advantage of any programs and networking events that are offered. Every person you meet is an opportunity for both you and them to grow.

The views and opinions expressed in guest posts and/or profiles are those of the authors or sources and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Security Industry Association (SIA).