Specifically Speaking with Dan Mike, Ross & Baruzzini

YARMOUTH, Maine—Security Systems News’ monthly column Specifically Speaking features Dan Mike, who is Principal – Director of Operations at integrated technology, consulting, and engineering solutions provider Ross & Baruzzini, whose notable security design and consulting projects include the World Trade Center, LaGuardia Airport, Madison Square Garden, the Obama Presidential Center, New Jersey Transit, and Amtrak. “Personally, I find the security design of cultural institutions most interesting,” he told SSN.

SSN: What kinds of systems do you design/specify and what services does the company provide?

Mike: We design holistic security systems based on anticipated goals of what we call “Day 2,” where the client has accepted the systems that we designed and engineered, in many cases, two to five years prior to their acceptance. These systems almost always include access control, video, intrusion detection, intercom and emergency call stations. They often also include visitor management, forced entry, blast mitigation, vehicle interdiction and sometimes gunshot detection. The design is always driven by the client and their unique needs. Once designed, our firm provides bid support and full construction administration through the life of the project. Once complete, we provide a set of record documents and final acceptance.

SSN: What vertical markets does the company specialize in? Any interesting projects that you can mention?

Mike: Our history is rooted in the Cultural Properties market. We were founded in 1964 by an FBI agent specializing in fine art theft. When asked about our firm’s interesting projects, I always mention protecting six of the remaining Declarations of Independence and having provided security for more than 350 museums and galleries worldwide. I find it very exciting that we contribute to preserving our country’s great history.

As we have evolved, we have become an industry leader in the security design of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, having designed or consulted on more than 52 structures around the globe. Our most notable project by far is the World Trade Center, wherein we are the engineers of record for all five towers, as well as consultants to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

SSN: How did you get started in security and designing/specifying?

Mike: After 20 years on the contracting side, I decided to make the transition to the design/specifying side. I was very fortunate to be offered a position with our firm. At the time, Ducibella, Venter & Santore, was one of the most prestigious security design firms in world. After being acquired by Ross & Baruzzini in 2015, we are now merged with our sister firm, Integral. We were recently honored to announce the new company name, Introba.

SSN: Can you talk about what new or emerging technologies you are seeing or specifying today?

Mike: I see great potential for perimeter security in the integration of radar, artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and video systems. I see presence detectors continuing to evolve over the next few years with the potential to significantly change the way we detect and monitor people. I recently specified my first vape detector in a K-12 restroom.

SSN: What is your view on the industry moving forward?

Mike: There is never a dull moment in the security industry. It is a challenge to keep up with the technology as it is constantly changing and improving. Our projects are among some of the most unique, signature facilities such as the new MSG Sphere in Las Vegas. That is one of the many things I love most about what we do.