In brief: ESA enhances tech training, Parker Group adds platform, Brinks Home relocates

FRISCO, Texas—The Electronic Security Association (ESA) has launched a modernized version of its Certified Alarm Technician (CAT) Level 1 course, updating the long-standing training program to better align with evolving technologies and ongoing workforce challenges in the electronic security industry. 

The CAT Level 1 course, widely recognized by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) for state licensing, is designed as an entry-level certification for technicians. The program consists of 22 hours of online instruction followed by a proctored two-hour exam and covers core disciplines including intrusion detection, fire detection, video surveillance and access control. 

ESA said the updated course introduces expanded content areas such as wireless technology, Internet of Things (IoT) systems and cybersecurity fundamentals, along with more interactive, learner-focused elements aimed at improving retention and practical application. 

Focus on workforce development 

ESA executives said the changes come as the industry faces growing demand for skilled technicians that is outpacing the available labor pool. 

“The electronic security and life safety industry is at a critical inflection point,” said ESA COO Jillian Bateman-McIntosh. “Demand is rising, but the pipeline of skilled technicians is not keeping pace. ESA exists to solve challenges like this for integrators and dealers. Through resources like our newly modernized Certified Alarm Technician Level 1 certification, we’re providing accessible, self-paced training that helps companies onboard faster, develop talent more effectively, and strengthen their teams from the ground up.” 

The course remains fully online and self-paced, a format ESA said is intended to give companies flexibility as they onboard and train new hires. 

Jared Buchanan, ESA’s training director, said the redesign emphasizes practical knowledge that technicians can apply in the field. 

“This online, self-paced experience has been redesigned to deliver practical, field-ready knowledge technicians can apply immediately in real-world environments, helping companies develop stronger teams faster,” he said. 

Updated content, delivery 

In addition to new subject matter, ESA said the course incorporates a more modern training experience, including interactive elements designed to engage learners and reinforce key concepts. 

The association said the updated CAT Level 1 certification is intended to provide a scalable training solution for integrators and dealers looking to standardize onboarding and improve technician readiness as technologies continue to evolve. 

Enrollment for the modernized course is now open through ESA.  

Parker Group launches browser-based AV recording platform at InfoComm 

LAS VEGAS—Parker Group has launched AVenue StreamPortal, a browser-based platform designed to record, monitor and replay multiple AV and video sources in synchronized timelines for command centers, training environments and security operations. 

The platform, introduced at InfoComm, is built to bring together fragmented video and data sources into a single interface, enabling users to review events in context across multiple systems. 

AVenue StreamPortal supports recording from a range of inputs, including cameras, sensors, dashboards, KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) systems, PCs and AV-over-IP devices. Users can monitor feeds live through a browser and revisit recorded content through synchronized playback, allowing for analysis of events across multiple sources at specific points in time. 

Parker Group said the platform is intended to streamline workflows for operators and analysts who need to reconstruct incidents, conduct training reviews or evaluate operational performance. Features include DVR-style playback, timeline navigation and the ability to bookmark key moments for faster review during investigations or after-action debriefs. 

“Mission-ready teams do not just need more video. They need every source synchronized, accessible, and reviewable in context,” said Ray May, chief technology officer at Parker Group. “AVenue StreamPortal gives operators, instructors and analysts a browser-based way to record every feed, watch every feed and replay exact moments.” 

Focus on centralized visibility and operational review 

The platform is designed for environments where multiple video and data streams must be reviewed together, including security operations centers and network operations centers. By consolidating inputs into a single system, the platform aims to provide greater visibility into events without requiring users to access multiple tools or interfaces. 

AVenue StreamPortal runs on standard rack-mounted servers and does not require client software, plugins or proprietary viewing applications. The browser-based approach is intended to simplify deployment and expand access across teams. 

The system also supports long-duration recording and multi-stream playback, enabling users to review extended events or compare activity across different sources simultaneously. 

Built for controlled and high-security environments 

According to Parker Group, the platform is designed to meet the needs of enterprise, federal and defense users. It supports deployment in controlled and air-gapped environments, as well as workflows that require adherence to security and accreditation standards. 

By combining synchronized recording with centralized access, the platform reflects broader efforts within the security and AV markets to improve situational awareness, streamline investigations and enhance training and operational review processes. 

NFPA sets 2026 Fire Prevention Week theme on lithium-ion battery safety 

QUINCY, Mass.—The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” as the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2026, placing a spotlight on lithium-ion battery safety as these devices become more common in homes and workplaces. 

Observed Oct. 4-10, Fire Prevention Week will focus on educating the public about proper charging, storage and use of lithium-ion-powered devices, which include smartphones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes and scooters. 

NFPA officials said the campaign reflects growing concerns about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which store large amounts of energy in compact spaces and can pose fire hazards if damaged or improperly charged. 

Education campaign focuses on everyday behaviors 

“Properly charging devices can significantly reduce the risk of fires and associated hazards,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “Making informed choices and practicing simple habits are critical to these efforts.” 

While NFPA does not yet track national data on home fires specifically caused by lithium-ion batteries, the organization pointed to an increasing number of incidents reported by fire departments, media outlets and other sources as evidence of a growing safety issue. 

The campaign aims to address that gap through public education, emphasizing simple, preventive actions that can reduce risk both at home and in other environments. 

Key safety recommendations highlighted 

As part of the initiative, NFPA outlined several core safety messages tied to charging practices. Among them is the importance of using manufacturer-approved charging equipment, as incompatible cords or chargers can damage batteries and increase fire risk. 

The organization also advises users to charge devices on hard, flat surfaces such as tables or desks, rather than on beds, couches or under pillows, where heat can become trapped and lead to overheating. 

Additional guidance includes unplugging devices once they are fully charged to avoid unnecessary heat buildup and battery stress, as well as monitoring for warning signs such as excessive heat, swelling, smoke or unusual odors - all of which may indicate a failing battery. 

For larger devices such as e-bikes, scooters and certain power tools, NFPA recommends charging them outside and away from exits, noting that higher-capacity batteries can generate more intense fires if they fail. 

Connected Technologies expands channel with new rep partnerships 

MONUMENT, Colo.—Connected Technologies has expanded its channel footprint through new partnerships with manufacturer’s representative firms SRREP and REPWORKS, a move aimed at increasing market reach for its Connect ONE cloud-hosted security management platform. SRREP, based in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and REPWORKS, headquartered in South Hadley, Mass., will represent Connected Technologies across key regions, supporting sales efforts and engagement with integrators, consultants and distribution partners. Under the agreement, SRREP will cover Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. REPWORKS will focus on Upstate New York and the New England states. Both firms bring decades of experience in the physical security, low-voltage and audiovisual markets. 

Delinea, Cyera integrate to link identity access with data exposure risk 

SAN FRANCISCO—Delinea and Cyera announced a product integration that connects privileged identity access with sensitive data exposure, aiming to help security teams better identify and prioritize high-risk access paths. The integration links Delinea’s identity security platform with Cyera’s data security posture management (DSPM) technology, correlating identities with the data they can access and applying risk context based on data sensitivity. As organizations manage a growing number of human, machine and AI-driven identities, understanding which accounts have access to critical data has become increasingly complex. The companies said connecting identity and data context is intended to give security teams clearer visibility into potential risk. 

UCC names Chancy Pray director of sales 

SAN ANTONIO—United Central Control (UCC) has appointed Chancy Pray as director of sales, effective June 1, returning a seasoned industry professional to the monitoring provider as it looks to expand its market presence and deepen dealer partnerships. Pray brings more than 35 years of experience in the electronic security industry, including prior tenure with UCC more than 15 years ago as a sales representative. Since then, he has held leadership roles across contract monitoring organizations, video-focused equipment manufacturers and security finance firms, providing a broad understanding of the evolving security landscape. In his new role, Pray will oversee UCC’s account executive team and focus on driving new business development, strengthening customer relationships and advancing the company’s long-term growth strategy. 

Constellis names Pugh CFO, Sondhi chief growth & technology officer 

HERNDON, Va.—Constellis has appointed Brent A. Pugh as chief financial officer and Tarun Sondhi as chief growth & technology officer, strengthening its executive leadership team as the company advances a strategy focused on operational performance and technology-driven transformation. The global risk management and mission support services provider said the appointments reflect its next phase of growth, emphasizing tighter financial execution alongside expanded digital and technology capabilities. “Brent and Tarun bring the leadership and perspective to help drive the next chapter of Constellis,” CEO Dan Gelston said. “We are evolving into a more integrated, technology-enabled organization that combines our operational expertise with advanced capabilities to redefine how security is delivered.” 

SimpliSafe expands executive team with three leadership appointments 

BOSTON—SimpliSafe has added three executives to its leadership team as the company positions itself for continued growth and innovation in the home security market. The company announced that Mike Buckley has been named chief financial officer, Sandra Yang Scirpo chief customer officer and Sharon Segev chief administrative and legal officer. The appointments come as SimpliSafe approaches its 20th anniversary and continues to expand its customer base, which the company said now includes more than 6 million people across the United States. “SimpliSafe’s mission remains the same: to keep every home secure,” CEO Hilary Schneider said. “Mike, Sandra, and Sharon bring the leadership needed to guide our next chapter as we develop more proactive ways to keep people safe and expand the number of people we protect.”  

Brinks Home relocates HQ to new Dallas-area facility 

DALLAS—Brinks Home has relocated its headquarters to a new Class A office in Farmers Branch, Texas, marking the culmination of a multi-year effort to modernize the company’s operations and brand. The smart home security provider said the new headquarters, located at 1501 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway, occupies approximately 27,000 square feet within the Park West complex. Brinks Home marked the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 9, attended by company leadership, local officials and project partners. The move follows a broader transformation that began with the company’s 2021 rebrand, during which Brinks Home expanded its go-to-market channels, introduced its BHX Summer Sales program, and transitioned to a hybrid operating model. The company said those initiatives contributed to improved service efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

ZBeta releases tech perspective on PKOC, interoperability in access control 

SAN FRANCISCO—ZBeta has released its first LabZ Tech Perspective, focusing on the Public Key Open Credential (PKOC) standard and its potential impact on the physical access control market. The report examines PKOC, an open credential standard developed by the Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) that is based on asymmetric, or public key, encryption. According to ZBeta, the framework is designed to move the industry away from proprietary credential ecosystems, with the goal of improving interoperability and strengthening credential security. The analysis outlines how PKOC could influence the evolution of access control systems as organizations modernize infrastructure and expand the use of mobile credentials. It also explores practical considerations tied to adoption, including migration requirements, infrastructure readiness, and how PKOC compares with other emerging interoperability efforts such as Aliro. 

World Fire Congress names Metro Chiefs as Secretariat, expands research framework 

MEDINA, Ohio—The World Fire Congress (WFC) has named the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs) as its Secretariat, establishing a long-term framework aimed at strengthening coordination and continuity across the global fire and emergency services community. Metro Chiefs, a section of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), will provide ongoing support between biennial Congresses, helping preserve institutional knowledge, coordinate with host nations, and sustain international engagement on emerging fire and life safety challenges. 

Veteran counter drone leader John Knag joins MatrixSpace 

BURLINGTON, Mass. – MatrixSpace has tapped John Knag as vice president of product, where he will accelerate the company’s product roadmap and system integration with key industry players. An industry pioneer in C-UAS (counter drone) technology, Knag brings extensive counter drone experience, most recently building and leading the product and engineering team at Dedrone/Axon. “John brings a fantastic background as both an innovator and user of drone detection, public safety first-response (DFR), and C-UAS systems,” said Greg Waters, CEO, MatrixSpace. “As major governments and multinational corporations rapidly adopt counter drone capabilities as part of their business models, John’s talents will significantly accelerate the adoption of our platforms.”  

O.W.L. expands engineering team 

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Observation Without Limits (O.W.L.), a U.S.-based manufacturer of 2D and 3D radars for ground and low-altitude airspace surveillance applications, has added two new members to its engineering team. Nic Price (firmware engineer) and Zachary Clark (mechanical engineering lead) are based at company headquarters in Huntsville, Ala. “As O.W.L. continues to stay ahead of the technological curve by developing market leading solutions across many sectors, our team needs to grow in order to meet customer and multi-industry demands,” said Adam Robinett, O.W.L. CEO. “Nic and Zachary are welcome additions as they bring significant credentials to O.W.L. and our radar-based systems.” 

Acadian Total Security names Reagan Breaux Employee of the Year 

LAFAYETTE, La.—Acadian Total Security, a division of Acadian Companies, has named Reagan Breaux its 2025 Employee of the Year. Breaux joined the company in 2024 and serves as a sales support coordinator. She was recognized for her service-oriented approach, including managing complex customer issues and supporting client needs with consistency and professionalism. According to the company, Breaux has demonstrated strong cross-departmental communication, providing proactive updates and assisting team members while helping maintain day-to-day service operations. She has also taken on additional leadership responsibilities within the service department.“Her daily positive attitude, willingness to lend a hand, and skill set make her an exceptional member of the Acadian Total Security team,” said Brandon Niles, vice president of Acadian Total Security.