Dr. Elli Reges to Lead FAST’s Mission to Build the Future Security Workforce

The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) has named Dr. Elli Reges to serve as FAST’s new executive director. Created in 2020 through a partnership of the Electronic Security Association (ESA), the Security Industry Association (SIA) and PSA—the industry’s leading associations—FAST connects aspiring professionals with meaningful careers in the electronic security and life safety industry. As FAST’s executive director, Dr. Reges will lead the foundation’s efforts to expand awareness of career opportunities and strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline through education, outreach and collaboration.

“Our industry has an incredible story to tell, yet too many students and job seekers simply don’t know the opportunities that exist,” said Reges. “Together, we have an opportunity to redefine how people see the security industry—not just as a place to find a job, but as a place to build a meaningful career, solve complex challenges and make a lasting impact. I’m excited to work alongside our partners to build a skilled, diverse workforce that will drive the future of the security industry.”

Reges serves as the director of learning and development for the Security Industry Association and will assume the additional role of executive director of the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent. In this dual capacity, she will lead FAST’s mission to expand education, strengthen career pathways and attract the next generation of talent to the electronic security and life safety industry. Having led several collaborative programs on behalf of ESA, PSA and SIA, Reges is uniquely positioned to advance FAST’s mission through strong industry partnerships and a shared commitment to workforce development.

With more than a decade of experience in learning strategy, credentialing, and organizational development in the security industry, Reges has worked closely with leading security manufacturers, integrators and end users to develop innovative solutions that address the industry’s evolving workforce needs. Prior to joining SIA, she developed training and certification programs for sport and event security professionals working at the National Center for Spectator Sport Safety and Security (NCS4). Reges holds a Ph.D. in human capital development from The University of Southern Mississippi and is a certified credentialing professional (ICE-CCP).

“FAST has built tremendous momentum by bringing our industry together around one of its most important priorities—developing the next generation of security professionals,” said John Nemerofsky, board chair of FAST and chief operating officer of SAGE Integration. “Dr. Reges has been instrumental in advancing workforce development initiatives across the industry, and her expertise, collaborative leadership and strategic vision make her exceptionally well suited to lead FAST into its next phase of growth. We are excited to have her build on this momentum, expand our impact and strengthen the talent pipeline that will shape the future of the electronic security and life safety industry.”

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The FAST website offers job seekers information about the security industry’s growth, its unique position at the convergence of cutting-edge technology and a mission that matters, the types of roles available, what employers are looking for, leading certifications in physical security and cybersecurity and a jobs board featuring immediate opportunities in security technology and life safety. The FAST Jobs Board allows job seekers to search by keyword, job title and location and features thousands of jobs from more than 800 companies. It continues to grow as a go-to destination for hiring and finding opportunities in the security industry. FAST’s key efforts include campus outreach to technical schools, colleges and universities to increase awareness of the exciting and rewarding careers available in security; research on the industry’s workforce development needs and possible solutions; and continuing education resources to help those already in the industry stay current with rapidly emerging and evolving technologies.

FAST’s campus outreach programs, research and resources are funded by individual and organizational donations. Learn more and donate to FAST here. Learn more about getting involved with FAST activities on the Partner with FAST page.

About FAST

FAST is a 501(c)(3) organization created by ESA and SIA to promote careers in the physical security technology industry. FAST is dedicated to connecting passionate, innovative professionals with new opportunities in the electronic security and life safety industry. Through a partnership of the industry’s leading associations, ESA and SIA, FAST brings awareness to the career advancement opportunities within the fast-paced technology industry that serves to keep people, places and property safe.

About ESA

Established in 1948, ESA is the largest trade association in the United States representing the electronic security and life safety industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. Together, ESA member companies employ more than 500,000 industry professionals and serve more than 34 million residential and commercial clients.

About SIA

SIA is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 1,700 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industry’s top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.

About PSA

The PSA Security Network is a collective of leading security integrators united by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry advancement. PSA members unlock unrivaled buying power, strategic partnerships, and exclusive resources that drive competitive advantage and sustainable growth. Through collaborative peer networks, advanced training and education programs, vetted technology partnerships, and financial benefits, PSA empowers integrators to strengthen their businesses while elevating professional standards across the security industry. With a focus on attracting and developing top talent, PSA recognizes that a skilled, dedicated workforce is essential to the future of physical security.