SIA New Member Profile: Lynx Systems

New Security Industry Association (SIA) member Lynx Systems is a provider of network-based duress and mass notification solutions. The company is headquartered in Richardson, Texas, with solutions implemented nationwide across various industries and communities.
SIA spoke with Austan Preuett, MBA, director of marketing at Lynx Systems, about the company, the security industry and working with SIA.

Tell us the story of your company.
Austan Preuett: Lynx Systems, a Micro Technology Services Inc. (MTSI) division, has been at the forefront of emergency communication solutions since 2004. Based in Richardson, Texas, and founded in 1990, we specialize in duress and mass notification systems, providing both on-premises and cloud-based solutions. Our technology seamlessly integrates with video management software, access control systems and alarm panels and can operate as a stand-alone solution. Lynx Systems was founded on the belief that security solutions should be intuitive, integrated, and capable of evolving alongside the technological landscape. Our journey began with a focus on providing comprehensive security solutions that cater to the specific needs of our clients, blending advanced technology with user-friendly interfaces. Over time, we have refined our approach, integrating innovative technologies to meet the dynamic challenges businesses and communities face in maintaining safety and security.
As the director of marketing at Lynx Systems, I am deeply committed to driving our company’s growth through innovative marketing strategies and championing diversity and inclusion within the security industry. My leadership at Lynx Systems is focused on integrating ethical practices and diversity into our core strategic goals, setting a high standard for excellence and integrity in the security sector.
What solutions/services does your business offer in the security industry? And what makes your offerings or your company unique?

AP: Our duress solutions are uniquely comprehensive, featuring supervised computer-based F9-F11 keyboard panic buttons that remain active whether logged off or locked, Power over Ethernet (PoE) panic alarm hardwired input boxes and buttons that monitor battery, tamper and signal integrity – ensuring easy, reliable alarm testing, supervision and reporting. This thorough approach to security hardware helps eliminate common failures in emergency communication by automating the delivery of critical information from alarms to handheld radios for immediate response actions.
For mass notification, Lynx offers an innovative one-button lockdown and emergency broadcast notification system that can disseminate alerts through a multitude of channels: computers, HDMI monitors, mobile phones (via call/SMS), handheld radios, IP phones, PA systems, IP speakers, strobes and LED signs. This extensive reach ensures that everyone in an affected area receives prompt and clear instructions during critical situations.
What sets Lynx Systems apart is not just our technological integration but also our commitment to quality and support – all our products are proudly manufactured and supported in the United States, providing reliable, timely assistance and fostering a safe environment for all our clients.

What is something we might not know about your company – or something new you are doing in security?
AP:One of the exciting new developments at Lynx Systems is our enhancement of physical security notifications by introducing our PoE++ LED sign and the LynxBeacon, both American-made products. The PoE++ LED Sign represents a significant advancement in emergency communication technology, providing clear and immediate visual alerts that can be seen across large areas, improving response times during critical incidents.
The LynxBeacon is an innovative solution to complement the F9-F11 software panic buttons and enable the addition of the location of laptops and staff in need of help; broadcasting its unique identifier and internal battery level, ensuring system integrity is maintained and monitored without manual checks. This feature allows for more efficient maintenance and higher reliability of our security systems, ensuring seamless operation. Both the PoE++ LED sign and the LynxBeacon are proudly made, manufactured and supported in the U.S., underscoring our commitment to quality and reliability while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in security technology to continuously enhance the safety and security of the environments we protect.

What is your company’s vision, and what are your goals for the security industry?
AP: Lynx is committed to shaping a future where security solutions not only protect but also empower the communities and industries we serve. Our vision is centered around creating security systems that are not only innovative and efficient but also inclusive and supportive of diversity in the security field. This vision is part of our broader commitment to leading with integrity and excellence in every aspect of our operations.
A significant part of our commitment is supporting women in the security industry, which aligns closely with our core values and strategic goals. We believe that fostering diversity within our ranks and the broader security community leads to more creative solutions and a more inclusive industry. As the director of marketing and a passionate advocate for women in security, I actively involve myself in initiatives like the SIA Women in Security Forum. My involvement is not just about representation; it’s about actively contributing to reshaping the industry to be more equitable and supportive.
This commitment is crucial because it reflects our broader organizational goals of leadership in innovation and ethics in the security industry. By supporting women and promoting diversity, we aim to not only enhance our company culture but also set a standard in the industry for inclusivity and excellence. These efforts are integral to Lynx Systems’ mission of delivering superior security solutions that safeguard and enhance the lives of people across various sectors.

What do you enjoy most about being at your company – and in the security industry?

AP: What I enjoy most about being at Lynx Systems, and in the security industry, is the constant opportunity for innovation and impact. Every day presents a new challenge and a chance to make a real difference in how people and organizations experience safety and security.
At Lynx Systems, we’re not just creating security products – we’re crafting solutions that safeguard communities and enhance the way our clients live and work. The dynamic nature of the security field keeps me engaged and passionate about my work.

What does SIA offer that is most important to you/your company? And what do you most hope to get out of your membership with SIA?
AP: SIA offers a range of invaluable resources that are crucial to our operations at Lynx Systems. Key among these are the industry insights and advocacy efforts that help shape the future landscape of security technology. SIA’s role in promoting ethical practices and standards across the industry aligns closely with our core values of integrity and innovation.
Most importantly, we value SIA’s networking opportunities, allowing us to connect with other industry leaders and technology pioneers. These connections are vital for fostering collaborations and staying abreast of emerging trends. Through our membership, we aim to leverage these benefits to enhance our product offerings and contribute to the broader conversation about the future of security. We are particularly interested in participating in SIA’s educational programs and policy initiatives, which we believe will help us continue to lead with well-informed strategies and cutting-edge solutions in our sector.

How does your organization engage with SIA? What are your plans for involvement in the next year?
AP: Lynx Systems actively engages through a variety of channels, particularly focusing on educational and networking events. For the upcoming year, we have a comprehensive plan to deepen our involvement and leverage the association’s resources to the fullest.
A key highlight of our engagement will be participating in the ISC West event, which is an excellent platform for us to showcase our innovations and learn from others in the industry. Personally, I am particularly excited to attend the Security LeadHER conference, an initiative that aligns closely with our goals to support and elevate women within the security sector. This conference is an opportunity not only to connect with fellow leaders but also to discuss challenges and opportunities for women in our field.
Lynx’s involvement will also include participating in webinars and other educational formats that SIA offers, ensuring that we remain at the cutting edge of industry developments. Through these engagements, we aim to strengthen our connections within the industry, stay updated on the latest technological and regulatory changes and contribute actively to the dialogue shaping the future of security.
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.