Home Article In brief: RapidFire makes buy, TMA opens registration, Brivo joins SBC

In brief: RapidFire makes buy, TMA opens registration, Brivo joins SBC

By SSN Staff

Updated 9:40 AM CDT, Wed August 12, 2026

ST. LOUIS—RapidFire Safety & Security has acquired Comsec Associates, a California-based firm specializing in mission-critical in-building public safety radio communications systems.

Comsec, which has operated in the public safety communications sector since 1991, is known for its expertise in the design, implementation, testing, inspection and ongoing support of Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS/ERCES).

The acquisition strengthens RapidFire’s ability to support fire departments, government agencies, building owners and commercial customers by helping ensure reliable in-building communications for first responders during emergencies.

Based in the Los Angeles area, Comsec has built a reputation for developing standards and regulations, reviewing and correcting plans, and inspecting public safety radio system installations.

RapidFire said the company’s capabilities complement its existing fire alarm, life safety and electronic security offerings while adding a specialized service line experiencing growing industry demand.

“We are excited to welcome the Comsec team to RapidFire,” said Brian Modglin, COO of RapidFire. “Their specialized knowledge of ERRCS and strong reputation for supporting public safety compliance make them an excellent addition to our California team. Together, we will continue building a best-in-class life safety organization focused on technical excellence, customer service, and ensuring first responders have reliable communications when it matters most.”

Everon acquires Scarsdale Security Systems to expand national accounts business

IRVING, Texas—Everon has acquired Scarsdale Security Systems, a New York-based provider of integrated security and fire alarm solutions, in a move the company said will strengthen its National Account program and expand its ability to serve multi-site commercial customers across the U.S.

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Scarsdale, N.Y., Scarsdale Security Systems provides security, fire alarm, access control and video solutions for commercial customers. The company employs approximately 100 people, supported by an established subcontractor network.

Everon said the acquisition will enhance its national account strategy by adding a provider with extensive experience supporting complex, multi-location organizations.

The company said Scarsdale customers will gain access to Everon's broader service footprint, expanded operational resources and national infrastructure while maintaining existing customer relationships and local service support.

“Scarsdale has built an outstanding reputation serving commercial customers, particularly those with complex, multi-site environments,” said Don Young, CEO of Everon. “Through this partnership, Scarsdale customers benefit from our established, successful National Account infrastructure, extensive service capabilities, innovative technology portfolio, and nationwide reach while continuing to benefit from the trusted relationships and responsive support that have been central to Scarsdale's success.”

Scarsdale Security Systems President and Founder David Raizen said the transaction will help the company deliver additional value to customers and employees.

“Joining Everon represents an exciting next chapter for Scarsdale,” Raizen said. “We have built our reputation on high-quality solutions, dependable service, and long-standing customer relationships. Everon’s national platform, resources, and established National Account infrastructure will help us extend that value even further for our customers and employees.”

Everon said the acquisition will create additional opportunities to leverage its existing national account infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and further integrate national account resources.

SAGE Integration acquires Vital Installs, sudoVision

KENT, Ohio—SAGE Integration has acquired Vital Installs and sudoVision Consulting LLC, expanding its capabilities in security integration, low-voltage infrastructure and technology services for commercial and government customers.

Vital Installs, based in Columbus, Ohio, provides security system solutions, structured cabling and network installation services. Charlotte, N.C.-based sudoVision Consulting is a service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) specializing in technology and security solutions for commercial and government clients.

SAGE said the acquisitions strengthen its national delivery platform and add complementary expertise in areas including low-voltage systems, network infrastructure and emerging technology applications.

“We are thrilled to join the SAGE family,” said Omid Jaafari, founder and owner of sudoVision. “Since day one, our mission has been to deliver exceptional service and trusted solutions to every customer we support. As part of SAGE, we're excited to expand that commitment, bringing our expertise, innovation and customer-first approach to an even broader community.”

According to SAGE, the additions will enhance its ability to support increasingly complex customer environments where physical security systems, network infrastructure and advanced technologies are becoming more interconnected.

“Adding Vital Installs and sudoVision Consulting is an important step in our continued growth,” said John Nemerofsky, COO of SAGE Integration. “Their teams bring specialized capabilities that align directly with where our clients’ needs are headed: secure facilities, dependable infrastructure and smarter technology solutions delivered with speed and precision.”

The company said the acquisitions further its strategy of building a national security and technology services organization capable of helping customers protect facilities, operations and critical assets across a range of industries.

TMA opens registration for annual meeting

MCLEAN, Va. – The Monitoring Association (TMA) has opened registration for its 2026 Annual Meeting, taking place Nov. 7-11 at the Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa. The event will bring together C-suite executives, owners, senior leaders and key decision-makers from across the professional monitoring and security industry for strategic education, executive networking and conversations focused on what comes next.

Designed for leaders responsible for navigating change and identifying new opportunities, the Annual Meeting will examine the technologies, business trends and leadership strategies shaping the future of professional monitoring and response. The program will address artificial intelligence, video monitoring, emerging technologies, business growth and the economic forces influencing the security industry.

“The Annual Meeting gives our industry’s leaders the opportunity to step away from day-to-day demands and focus together on what lies ahead,” said Alan Gillmore IV, president of TMA. “By sharing experiences, challenging one another’s thinking, and strengthening the relationships that move our industry forward, attendees return to their organizations with new perspectives, practical ideas and a stronger network of peers.”

Educational sessions will include a spotlight on public safety agencies; the operational and training implications of video monitoring; the continued evolution of ASAP; a government relations and industry advocacy update; a capital markets and economic outlook; and an industry roundtable on video monitoring.

TMA members who register by Oct. 2 receive discounted early bird registration rates. For more information, visit https://tma.us/2026-annual-meeting/.

Brivo joins SBC, Van Till appointed to board

AUSTIN, Texas – Brivo has joined the Secure Building Council (SBC) and Brivo Founder and President Steve Van Till has been appointed to the SBC Advisory Board. SBC is a nonprofit dedicated to creating more secure, resilient and intelligent built environments. Its SHIELD Certification program is the first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered building security certification. Encompassing security design, technology implementation, operations, compliance, and liability, the certification delivers essential guidance for owners and architects to protect people and assets. “The Secure Building Council aims to do for physical security what LEED did for sustainability,” said Van Till. “By creating a credible, outcome-based certification, they are providing a framework that building owners actually want.” SBC said it was “honored” to have Van Till join the board. “Throughout his career, Steve Van Till has pioneered the move to cloud-native, data-driven security,” said Paula Balmori, SBC president. “His vision aligns with SBC's core mission: elevating security to a critical enterprise priority.”

SIA opens applications for three 2026 scholarship programs

SILVER SPRING, Md.—The Security Industry Association (SIA) has opened applications for three scholarship programs for 2026, including a new initiative aimed at supporting military veterans pursuing careers in the security industry. The association announced that applications are now being accepted for the SIA RISE Scholarship, SIA Veterans in Security Scholarship and Women in Security Forum (WISF) Scholarship. The programs are designed to help security professionals and students advance their educational and professional development goals. A new addition for 2026, the Veterans in Security Scholarship will award multiple scholarships of up to $5,000 each to military veterans and transitioning service members pursuing security-related education, certifications, professional development opportunities or student loan repayment. The program is open to U.S. military veterans affiliated with SIA member companies and active-duty service members planning to transition into private-sector security careers. “The SIA RISE, Veterans in Security and Women in Security Forum scholarships, presented by three vibrant SIA member communities, are excellent opportunities to support your professional development, learning and growth,” SIA CEO Don Erickson said. “SIA is proud to build on our commitment to fostering the next-generation security workforce, and with more scholarships this year than ever before, we look forward to helping our industry’s emerging leaders, young professionals, women and military veterans achieve their professional and educational goals.” The SIA RISE Scholarship, presented by SIA’s RISE community, provides $3,000 awards to young professionals, student members and individuals new to the security industry. Scholarship funds may be used for continuing education, professional certifications, training programs and student loan repayment. Eligible applicants include SIA student members and RISE members employed by SIA member companies worldwide. In 2026, SIA will again award three special RISE Scholarships: the Joey Comunale Scholarship, the Dalal Family Scholarship and the Pierre Trapanese Scholarship. The Women in Security Forum Scholarship will award recipients $7,500 each to support approved degree programs, continuing education, student loan repayment and professional development opportunities such as certifications, training courses and conferences. The program is open to all SIA members and student members. Each year, the top-scoring applicant receives the Sandy Jones Award, a distinction named in honor of longtime SIA member and industry veteran Sandra “Sandy” Jones. Applications for all three scholarship programs are due Sept. 11. SIA said the scholarships support its broader efforts to strengthen workforce development and create opportunities for current and future security industry professionals.

Aikido Security, Belfius team up to accelerate AI-based threat detection

GHENT, Belgium – Belfius and Aikido Security have announced a partnership around Aikido Machine, a dedicated AI server with Nvidia GPUs, which will be located within the Belfius own premises and will deploy more than 200 ethical AI hackers to test and challenge its own systems. The AI agents will search for vulnerabilities 24/7, enabling these advanced security tests to be performed continuously. Potential risks can therefore be identified and addressed quickly. As a result, the bank’s cyber resilience will be continuously tested, challenged, and strengthened. Aikido Machine is built on a model-agnostic architecture, allowing multiple Large Language Models (LLM’s) to be deployed, including models of partners of Belfius. “Attackers move at machine speed. Companies cannot keep responding at human speed," says Roeland Delrue, co-founder of Aikido. "Belfius understood that sooner than anyone else, and chose not to wait for this technology, but to help build it."

Framewerx acquires AD Micro Technology

EDMONTON, Alberta—Framewerx has acquired managed services provider AD Micro Technology, a move the company said will strengthen its service capabilities, expand its market reach and support its long-term growth strategy. AD Micro Technology provides managed IT services, including technical support, networking, security, backup, cloud and printer management. Framewerx said the acquisition adds talent and project-delivery expertise while creating opportunities to broaden its service offerings across both companies' customer bases. “We built AD Micro Technology on strong client relationships, trusted service and a commitment to delivering meaningful value over time,” said Kimson Dy Ning, founder of AD Micro Technology. “Becoming part of Framewerx creates an important opportunity to scale that foundation within a larger organization, while continuing to serve customers with the same level of care and consistency they have come to expect.” The acquisition follows the recent launch of Neuralwerx, Framewerx’s artificial intelligence (AI)-powered IT help desk and security platform. The company said the platform is designed to streamline support operations, accelerate ticket resolution and strengthen cybersecurity protections. Framewerx CEO Dan Reid said the transaction supports the company’s strategy of scaling to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence-driven services and AI governance. “Following the success of our Neuralwerx launch, this acquisition represents another important step in executing our long-term vision,” Reid said. “AD Micro Technology brings strong client relationships, proven delivery expertise and capabilities that will enhance what we can offer across our organization.” AD Micro Technology will continue operating under its existing brand during a transition period. Framewerx said it expects to fully integrate AD Micro Technology employees into the organization by the end of the year, increasing its headcount by approximately 30%.

Constellis names aerospace veteran to board

HERNDON, Va. – Constellis has appointed Ed Dolanski, a veteran aerospace, defense and government services executive, to its board of directors. With more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning military sustainment, mission readiness, logistics, aerospace, defense and operational transformation, Dolanski brings extensive expertise supporting government customers and leading complex organizations through periods of growth, modernization and change. He spent more than a decade in senior leadership roles with The Boeing Company, including serving as president of government services and president of global services & support, where he helped integrate technology and operational capabilities to enhance sustainment, lifecycle support, logistics and readiness programs supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and allied nations worldwide. "Ed brings a unique combination of defense, aerospace, and technology-enabled services experience that few leaders can match," said Michael Lundin, the board's lead director. "Throughout his career, he has helped organizations adapt to changing mission requirements by integrating operational excellence with technology to improve performance and deliver better outcomes for customers. As Constellis continues expanding the capabilities we bring to the market, Ed's experience, insight and customer-focused perspective will be invaluable in helping guide our next phase of growth."

Iveda completes EU AI Act initiative

MESA, Ariz. – Iveda has completed a comprehensive European Union Artificial Intelligence (EU AI) Act readiness initiative, positioning IvedaAI for continued responsible deployment as the company expands across Europe. The initiative combines a documented risk-classification assessment with an extensive governance framework addressing human oversight, transparency, data protection, AI fairness, prohibited uses and ongoing lifecycle management. The EU AI Act, a comprehensive legal framework governing artificial intelligence, entered into force on Aug. 1, 2024, with its next major provisions beginning to apply on Aug. 2, 2026. While organizations around the world continue to determine how the regulation will affect their AI development and deployment practices, Iveda began preparing its governance framework in early 2025, building upon the company’s existing GDPR data-protection practices and long-standing commitment to responsible technology. “Responsible AI cannot be treated as a last-minute compliance exercise or a box to check before a deadline,” said David Ly, CEO and founder of Iveda. “It must be built into how technology is developed, tested, documented, deployed and continuously monitored. As Europe establishes a new global benchmark for AI governance, Iveda is prepared not only to meet those expectations, but to help our partners deploy advanced video intelligence with confidence.”

Octave Intelligence receives Frost & Sullivan recognition

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - Octave Intelligence has been named Frost & Sullivan’s 2026 Global Command and Control Company of the Year. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents its Company of the Year recognition — the technology analysis and research firm’s highest honor — to the market participant that exemplifies visionary innovation, market-leading performance and unmatched customer care. The award recognizes Octave’s leadership in advancing command and control capabilities for organizations operating complex, high-consequence environments and acknowledges the company “for fundamentally reshaping how organizations achieve situational awareness, coordination and decision-making at scale,” Frost & Sullivan stated in its announcement of the recognition. Octave’s software helps critical infrastructure operators, transportation networks, public safety agencies and enterprise organizations unify data from across their operations, providing the context needed to detect issues earlier, coordinate response more effectively and maintain situational awareness across distributed environments. “Physical security is evolving from a collection of disconnected systems into a unified, intelligence-driven ecosystem,” said Andreas Beerbaum, VP of global sales & services at Octave. “At Octave, we are helping organizations bring together video, access control, incident response, spatial intelligence, AI and analytics to create greater contextual awareness. By transforming operational data into actionable intelligence, we enable security teams to make faster, more informed decisions, improve response times and better protect people, assets and critical operations.”

Genetec report highlights school security priorities

MONTRÉAL—Education institutions are increasing their focus on situational awareness, incident response and unified security platforms, even as budget constraints remain their biggest challenge, according to education-specific findings from Genetec's 2026 State of Physical Security Report. The report, based on responses from North American K-12 and higher education professionals, found that monitoring and responding to incidents on campus is the leading use of physical security data. That was cited by 86% of higher education respondents and 79% of K-12 respondents. Managing and auditing building access was another key use case, with nearly 80% of higher education respondents and 77% of K-12 respondents relying on security systems to control access for students, staff and visitors. Additionally, 76% of higher education respondents and 80% of K-12 respondents said they use security data to investigate student or staff conduct issues. Emergency preparedness also ranked high among respondents. Genetec reported that 54% of higher education professionals and 59% of K-12 respondents use physical security data to support emergency response planning and drills. The findings point to growing demand for more unified security operations that combine video surveillance, access control and other security technologies to provide a more complete view of campus activity, according to the company. Despite the increased reliance on security technology, respondents identified budget limitations as the top challenge facing education organizations. Funding constraints were cited by 72% of higher education respondents and 74% of K-12 respondents. When asked how they justify security investments, respondents most frequently pointed to improved visibility and situational awareness. That benefit was cited by 77% of higher education respondents and 64% of K-12 respondents. Compliance with district, state and federal regulations was another major factor, particularly among K-12 schools, where 62% said meeting safety mandates was a primary justification for spending. "Education institutions are under pressure to strengthen campus safety while managing limited budgets," said Stephen Homrighaus, vertical sales director for education at Genetec. "By unifying video, access control and other security data into a single platform, schools can improve visibility, respond more quickly to incidents, and meet compliance requirements, all while making the most of their existing investments."

TDSi by Hirsch updates GARDiS with intruder integration

POOLE, U.K.—TDSi by Hirsch has released GARDiS version 3.3, a major update to its access control and security management platform that adds new intruder management capabilities, streamlines credential administration and strengthens security controls.

The release introduces integration with Ajax Intruder Cloud, allowing users to discover and monitor Ajax hubs, devices and groups within the GARDiS platform. Authorized operators can view status changes, arm and disarm systems, and manage bypass settings without switching between separate applications. Intruder panels, zones and groups can also be incorporated into GARDiS Cause & Effect rules, enabling automated responses to security events. A key feature of the update is a redesigned credential model that consolidates credential management under a single universal "Card or Fob" type. According to the company, the change eliminates the need for administrators to match credentials to specific decode types and automatically migrates existing credentials during upgrades. The company said the streamlined approach also incorporates biometric credentials and IP lock whitelisting, helping reduce training requirements and minimize configuration errors. "GARDiS 3.3 is an important milestone for our customers," said Tina Pemberton, director of SMB software at TDSi by Hirsch. "These updates make the platform faster, simpler and even more secure, while opening the door to powerful new integrations such as Ajax intruder management." The update also adds configurable password policies, banned-word lists and automatic account lockout features to strengthen login security. New permissions for event dashboards and organization-based filtering provide more control over user access to information, while report-sharing options allow sensitive reports to remain private or be shared with designated users.

Lincoln USD 298 deploys ZeroEyes gun detection technology

LINCOLN, Kan.—Lincoln Unified School District 298 has deployed ZeroEyes' artificial intelligence (AI) gun detection and situational awareness platform across its campuses as part of an effort to strengthen school safety and improve response to potential gun-related threats. The rural Kansas district serves about 330 students in grades pre-K through 12 and employs 85 faculty and staff. Its two campuses include a preschool, daycare, elementary school, high school and technology center. According to the company, Lincoln USD 298 added the ZeroEyes platform to existing security measures that include secure entrances, door locks, overnight campus lighting and coordination with local law enforcement. The district funded the deployment through the Kansas Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Grant Program, which is administered by the Kansas Attorney General's Office. ZeroEyes said the grant followed collaboration among district leaders, law enforcement and community stakeholders who identified AI gun detection as a safety priority. "The safety and well-being of our students is always our absolute top priority," said Superintendent Nikki Flinn. "We had been following the development of AI gun detection technology for some time, because any opportunity to add another layer of protection for our kids is incredibly appealing." ZeroEyes' software integrates with existing digital security cameras and uses artificial intelligence to identify visible firearms. When a potential weapon is detected, images are sent to the company's 24/7 operations center, which is staffed by military and law enforcement veterans. If a threat is verified, alerts containing information such as a visual description, weapon type and last known location are distributed to law enforcement and school officials. "We are honored to support a district that is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of their students and staff," said ZeroEyes CEO and co-founder Mike Lahiff. "It's inspiring to see forward-thinking leadership utilize grant funding to proactively upgrade their security infrastructure, protect their campuses, and provide peace of mind to the entire community."

Las Vegas pilots ISS pedestrian safety system near Fremont Street

WOODBRIDGE, N.J.—Intelligent Security Systems (ISS) announced that the City of Las Vegas has launched a pilot deployment of its SecurOS Soffit pedestrian safety system near the Fremont Street Experience, aiming to improve driver awareness and enhance safety at one of downtown's busiest crossings. Installed at First Street and Ogden Avenue through a partnership with Pinnacle Consulting & Advisors, the project marks the first proof-of-concept deployment of the technology in Las Vegas. The project supports the city's Vision Zero initiative, a strategy focused on eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven safety measures. Located one block from the Fremont Street Experience, which attracts more than 24 million visitors annually, the crossing was selected because of the high volume of pedestrian activity in the area. Unlike traditional streetlights that illuminate a broad area, the SecurOS Soffit system uses analytics to detect pedestrians approaching and using a crosswalk. The system then activates a dynamic LED lighting array designed to follow pedestrians as they cross the street, making them more visible to drivers. ISS said the technology is intended to increase driver awareness while minimizing glare and unnecessary light pollution. The system also provides continuous crosswalk illumination while in standby mode. "We are proud to partner with the City of Las Vegas on this important initiative," said Aluisio Figueiredo, CEO of ISS. "Pedestrian safety in high-traffic urban environments demands intelligent, purpose-built solutions. This deployment is a strong example of how AI-driven technology can address real-world infrastructure challenges, providing meaningful protection where traditional countermeasures alone may not be sufficient." The Las Vegas pilot follows previous SecurOS Soffit deployments in Dublin, Ohio, and Kodiak, Ak., as ISS continues to expand adoption of the pedestrian safety technology in the United States.

NFPA appoints Vishal Kashyap as regional manager for India

QUINCY, Mass.—The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Vishal Kashyap as regional manager for India, a new role focused on strengthening the organization's engagement with stakeholders across the country's fire, electrical and life safety sectors. The appointment will see Kashyap represent NFPA in India while working with regulatory authorities, fire service leaders, industry associations and businesses to better understand the country's evolving safety landscape. According to NFPA, Kashyap will collaborate with key stakeholders, assess fire and life safety needs, and help identify opportunities where the organization's expertise and resources can support efforts to reduce loss and improve safety outcomes. "India is a country of enormous importance to the advancement of fire and life safety, and we are pleased to welcome Vishal to our regional team," said Mike Brunzell, vice president of global business development at NFPA. "His technical expertise, experience as an educator, and understanding of how safety decisions are made on the ground will help us establish the right foundation for a meaningful and lasting presence in India." Kashyap brings more than 20 years of experience spanning engineering, fire and life safety, education and organizational leadership across India and the Middle East. Before joining NFPA, he served as head of engineering for SIBCA in Abu Dhabi, where he led a multidisciplinary team of more than 130 engineering professionals and oversaw projects involving fire, security and built-environment systems. He was also recognized in 2004 with the National Geographic Channel Innovator of the Year award for engineering innovation. NFPA noted that Kashyap is an approved training instructor in its Authorized Education Network. "NFPA's mission has guided my work for many years, and I am honored to help advance that mission in India," Kashyap said. "I look forward to listening carefully to stakeholders across the country, understanding their priorities, and helping NFPA identify meaningful ways to support safer communities and more resilient buildings."

Tricentis appoints Erika Dean as chief information security officer

AUSTIN, Texas—Tricentis has appointed Erika Dean as chief information security officer, tasking the veteran cybersecurity executive with overseeing the company's global security strategy. In the role, Dean will lead Tricentis' enterprise cybersecurity, compliance and product security initiatives, with responsibility for ensuring the company's software continues to meet the security requirements of enterprise customers. Dean brings more than 20 years of cybersecurity leadership experience in the financial services and technology sectors. Prior to joining Tricentis, she helped build and lead security programs at Robinhood and Capital One, focusing on organizational protection, customer trust and operational resilience. At Tricentis, Dean will work across the company to strengthen enterprise and product security programs, software supply chain security, governance and cyber resilience efforts. She will also support the company's Agentic Quality Engineering Platform. “My career has focused on protecting organizations while enabling innovation,” Dean said. “As AI continues to transform the way software is built, security must extend beyond protecting our own organization to earning our customers’ trust in the software running in their critical environments.” Kevin Thompson, CEO of Tricentis, said Dean's experience building enterprise security programs and her customer-focused approach made her the right choice to lead the company's ongoing security efforts. “Cybersecurity is foundational to the trust our customers place in Tricentis,” Thompson said. “Erika's expertise in building enterprise security programs and her customer-centric approach make her the ideal leader to drive Tricentis' continued efforts to deliver innovative software quality solutions.”

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In brief: RapidFire makes buy, TMA opens registration, Brivo joins SBC

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