Securing New Ground 2016: A Millennial’s Perspective

An industry newcomer responds to concerns and opportunities associated with the next generation of security professionals.

By Brian Boucherle

The Millennial generation I am an involuntary member of has a pretty big list of labels thrown at it. I’ll spare the readers this list, and redirect them to Facebook posts made by previous generations. Whether people like it or not, we will be running the country in the near future. We are also the designated workforce that will be replacing business leaders in longstanding institutions. This was a prominent topic at almost every panel during my first time attending the Security New Ground (SNG) executive conference, held Oct. 19-20 at New York City’s Grand Hyatt.

My introduction into the security realm stems from SalesMarines, the startup I am working for. Our mission focuses on developing veterans in the Millennial bracket for a sales career in the security industry. It has provided me with some insights as to what this industry is looking for. As a Millennial breaking into physical security, I have been given amazing opportunities to listen to where industry leaders and security professionals believe the direction of the ecosystem is heading. Not many people my age are aware of the amazing innovations and ideas the security industry is creating. I wanted to share my perspective on some topics and trends discussed at SNG, and how it relates to Millennials.


READ NEXT: SNG 2016 Revolves Around Interconnected Systems and Security Connections


Technological advances are moving at such an exponential rate that it is difficult to stay on top of the wave. Part of being successful in a technology-driven field is continuing to actively learn about new and industry-changing advancements. Not doing so can result in reduced competitiveness, and ultimately becoming a statistic in failed business ventures. In my experience, Millennials have grown up with the necessity of being skillful in new technologies and fighting to the front of the line with the latest and greatest. Does your company desire tech savvy individuals who are competitive enough to be the first to know? We are your answer.

Whether directly from the current political climate or from the recent distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack across the United States, the state of cybersecurity has many people concerned, and rightfully so. With the Internet of Things (IoT), integration is projected to explode in the next five to 10 years. Our current reliance on digital solutions, and not properly understanding and mitigating cyber risk will cripple our success. In conversations with my friends, this is a valid concern for my generation. We love convenience and instant gratification, and having any interruptions brings about some interesting emotions. This is the direction the world is heading, so upcoming generations have a collective interest in maintaining ease of use technology by developing fortified cyber networks.


READ NEXT: ‘Deep Learning’ Dominates SNG’s Deep Discussions


When it comes to recruiting Millennials, it appears to me that companies and industries are catching on to what differentiates us from other candidates. My generation wants to work for an organization that recognizes hard work, values new and unique ideas, and is genuinely invested in their employee’s career. A company that focuses on their culture first will be at the forefront of obtaining the best talent my generation has to offer. Security integrator Convergint Technologies  is a good example of what placing high value on culture does for success. Develop the culture for inclusion and recognition, and prepare to see a plethora of new Millennial inquiries.

To be as cliché as possible, we want to feel special. What I see in the security industry is an immense opportunity for Millennials to feel special by having the ability to change an industry. The lack of young professionals to replace the current workforce puts the whole ecosystem in the hands of the few who make their mark first. When the word gets out that this industry has solid growth, exciting new technology, and is in desperate need of Millennials, the woes about us will be put to rest.

Brian Boucherle is a communication analyst intern at Matterhorn Consulting and can be contacted at [email protected]. His father and Matterhorn prinicipal, Paul Boucherle, pens Security Sales & Integration’s Business Fitness column.

If you enjoyed this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our FREE digital newsletters!

Security Is Our Business, Too

For professionals who recommend, buy and install all types of electronic security equipment, a free subscription to Commercial Integrator + Security Sales & Integration is like having a consultant on call. You’ll find an ideal balance of technology and business coverage, with installation tips and techniques for products and updates on how to add to your bottom line.

A FREE subscription to the top resource for security and integration industry will prove to be invaluable.

Subscribe Today!

Get Our Newsletters