Stan Martin Named SSI HoF Ring of Honor Inductee
Marking his 20th year as executive director of the Security Industry Alarm Coalition in 2022, Martin’s tireless efforts in false alarm reduction are legendary.
In 2004 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Security Sales & Integration, the publication designated the 25 most dynamic people who had shaped the electronic security industry. That impressive list formed the foundation of the SSI Industry Hall of fame, with smaller groups of important contributors recognized in subsequent years. Those chosen in the second round included Stan Martin, who throughout the subsequent 18 years has continued to be one of the industry’s most highly respected liaisons between the alarm industry and law enforcement in the partnership of managing false alarms and ensuring ongoing timely response to alarm incidents.
His original printed induction included the following . . .
Career Highlights
- In 1975, launched cable security company RMS Systems Inc.; grew it to $1.3 million business before selling to Chubb Security Systems (1990)
- Grew Chubb from $1.3 million to $5 million by 1993 while also serving as executive director of the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA)
- Named ADI vice president of industry relations in 1993, left in 2001
- National director of the Alarm Industry Research and Education Foundation (AIREF), 1996-2002
- Became SIAC’s executive director in 2002
Why He’s on the List
- Leading crusader in false alarm issues
- Spearheaded model states/cities studies, model ordinances for alarm response
- Helped establish National Training School (NTS) in Texas
- Organized National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) Chartered States Program
- Instrumental in mounting campaign against Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOCs)
Martin Comment: “I truly believe God has given me every gift/talent I have — there is nothing special about me. My life has just been blessed! To be associated or considered as a peer with the others selected would be an honor; to be selected leaves me at a place without words. This industry has given me so much and I have given so little.”
(End of original Hall induction information)
Despite having already achieved a lifetime’s worth of accomplishments and accolades by that point, there was no drop-off for Martin. In fact, he might have picked up even more momentum! Marking his 20th year as executive director of the Security Industry Alarm Coalition in 2022, Martin’s tireless efforts in false alarm reduction are legendary.
He has traveled across the United States, meeting with alarm associations carrying the SIAC flag and raising funds for an organization that exists solely on donations. He led SIAC through the pandemic and never missed a beat. Martin has operated the organization with a balanced budget year after year, sometimes even lowering his own salary so that the budget was balanced. His actions and that of the SIAC team thwarted unfair false alarm ordinances in many municipalities through the years.
When it came time to select the third member of the recently launched SSI Industry Hall of Fame Ring of Honor, now annually bestowed upon an existing Hall of Famer (minimum 10 years after induction) who has continued to distinguish themselves with exemplary achievement or contributions, Martin was an obvious call. To commemorate this iconic and ultimate recognition, friends and colleagues were asked to share what makes Stan Martin a true one of a kind.
What abilities or talents have most contributed to his success or you admire most?
“What people may not know is that Stan owned a security company many years ago and specialized in the builder space. After selling his company, Stan was hired by ADI and promoted to VP. Stan has the unique ability to listen patiently and offer advice and counsel to his peers, even during complex negotiations. This leadership trait has helped him and the SIAC Board of Directors as we debate many compelling facing the industry.” — Kirk MacDowell, President, MacGuard Security Advisors
“I have always admired Stan’s ability to bring individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries together for a common cause. No matter how contentious or stressful the situation Stan always displays a clam demeanor.” — Merlin Guilbeau, CEO, Electronic Security Association (ESA)
“Stan is most notably known as Mr. SIAC. His ability to have the constant best interests of the industry regarding the false alarm concerns of governmental agencies is unmatched.” — Tim Creenan, CEO, Amherst Alarm, and SSI Industry Hall of Famer
Security industry icons and officials salute Martin as he and Ron Rothman (second from left) were given SIAC’s Moody Award for “unselfishly giving time and talents to alarm management issues,” at an ESX 2015 ceremony.
What traits and characteristics have contributed to him building goodwill among colleagues?
“Stan is a person with many positive personal traits and characteristics. He brings to mind courage, to do what’s right even when it may not be popular. Humility, maintaining a modest opinion of his own self-importance. Respectfulness, treating others with courtesy, kindness and dignity. Integrity, adhering to moral and ethical principles. Sincerity, always saying what he genuinely believes. Trustworthiness, always telling and living the truth.” — Merlin Guilbeau
“Stan is a man of faith and integrity. He is deliberate in his messages, willing to listen to others and offers recommendations based on what is best for the industry. This characteristic has contributed to bulling significant goodwill not only in the security industry but to the law enforcement community as well. Stan chairs a committee of the International Association of Chiefs of Police [IACP], a prestigious and respected organization. He also serves on committees of the National Sheriffs’ Association [NSA], where he participates as a judge with NSA members from across the United States.” — Kirk MacDowell
“His constant calm demeanor allows him to be a resource for both the industry and public safety officials. He can bring together various members of the security industry, from large, small, East Coast, West Coast — everyone to work for the common good of our industry.” — Tim Creenan
What is something most people might not know about him?
“As the SIAC treasurer, I have the privilege of working with Stan on the annual budget for SIAC. He has many times made sure that the organization is solid financially. The SIAC staff has a great leader that truly cares for them as members of the SIAC team.” — Tim Creenan
“Stan once owned a Ferrari in his early alarm days before his tenure at ADI. He purchased it from an auto dealer in Dallas and I bet if he still had it today, he would sell it and donate the finds to SIAC. He now drives a much more reasonable vehicle!” — Kirk MacDowell
Since 2004, Martin has been presenting industry leaders with the Moody Award, here in 2017 with former Pittway executive Leo Guthart.
Share something about your relationship, experiences or a memorable incident with him.
“I have had the privilege of serving with Stan on the SIAC Board for close to 10 years, four of which as chairman. Stan is a great and stoic leader. Stan and SIAC Treasurer Tim Creenan worked tirelessly thorough the pandemic to continue to provide services while travel was nonexistent. Under Stan’s leadership, SIAC took a very conservative approach of strong fiscal management and budget, and deliverables were met. Stan is a pleasure to work with and I am honored to call him a friend.” — Kirk MacDowell
“Stan is always concerned about doing the right thing for his staff. He runs a very efficient organization that produces excellent results for the industry!” — Tim Creenan
“Having both served in the same position as executive director of NBFAA/ESA, Stan and I often share the joy and challenges of serving the association. Let’s just say we have attended a few interesting association meetings over the years!” — Merlin Guilbeau
High Regard and Respect Among Responders
Following are comments and reactions from a pair of former police officers who have come to know, respect and work alongside honoree Stan Martin in his crusade to fight false alarms and build industry relationships with law enforcement and first responders.
“I’ve had the opportunity and pleasure of working with Stan over the past 27 years. These years included serving together on the IACP Private Sector Liaison Committee/Section since 1996, and since 2004 working for Stan as SIAC’s National law Enforcement Liaison. Stan is an exceptional individual, first and foremost he is man of faith that shows daily in his personal and professional life. I’ve worked very close with Stan on many alarm/security issues, challenges and projects. His integrity is unquestionable. He leads by example and is a proven problem-solver who is always available to provide direction, especially when dealing with difficult situations and issues.
“Stan is also an exceptional business manager. SIAC’s successes working with law enforcement, local government and the alarm/security industry is attributed to Stan’s commitment and leadership. He is a joy to work for and with and he is more than deserving of this recognition.” — Glen Mowrey, National Law Enforcement Liaison, SIAC, and Deputy Chief (retired), Charlotte-Mecklenburg (N.C.) Police Department
“Stan is a man of God and a man of his word. He leads by example and treats employees with the highest amount of respect, trust and humility. I rose through all the ranks of a police department, and worked for and with sergeants, lieutenants, commanders, deputy chiefs, chiefs of police, city council members, mayors, and city managers. I can easily state, Stan is one of the best among all of those people I have ever experienced working with! He has a firm grip on his ego, allowing him to consistently share personal stories that can better me, professionally and personally. I couldn’t think of a more deserving award.” — Steve Keefer, National Law Enforcement Liaison, SIAC, and Chief of Police (retired), Sparks (Nev.) Police Department
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About the Author
Scott Goldfine
Scott Goldfine is the marketing director for Elite Interactive Solutions. He is the former editor-in-chief and associate publisher of Security Sales & Integration. He can be reached at [email protected].
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