2025 Security Industry Predictions: Greg Parker, Global VP, Johnson Controls
Parker, the global vice president of security and fire, lifecycle management, at Johnson Controls, shares his security industry predictions.
Photo courtesy of Johnson Controls
We keep going with our 2025 Security Industry Predictions series with Greg Parker, global vice president, security and fire, lifecycle management, at Johnson Controls.
Security Sales & Integration: Without getting into any specific vendors or branded solutions, what technology category or solution area do you see as 2025’s ripest, most profitable growth opportunity for security dealers, installers and integrators? Explain your reasoning.
Greg Parker: In 2025, the biggest growth opportunity for security dealers, installers and integrators will be in zero-trust security solutions paired with ongoing managed services. As physical and cybersecurity continue to merge, businesses will demand systems that ensure every user, device, and system is continuously verified before access is granted.
This is especially critical for IoT and cloud-connected systems, where vulnerabilities can quickly escalate.
Additionally, managed services including regular updates, system health monitoring, and artificial intelligence-powered predictive maintenance, will be essential to keep security systems running smoothly and minimize downtime. These services not only address risks proactively but also create recurring revenue streams.
SSI: On the business and operations side, which single factor (e.g., interest rates, talent-related issues, geopolitical stressors) poses the biggest challenge for the security industry right now? How can business owners mitigate their downside risk?
Parker: The ongoing shortage of skilled trade workers continues to challenge the industry, especially when it comes to maintaining and optimizing building systems. Workforce development initiatives like the Johnson Controls Community College Program aim to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the skilled trades, paving the way for a stronger workforce.
In the meantime, building owners have the opportunity to help ensure their systems operate efficiently and reliably by partnering with specialized experts and adopting a service model to complement their internal teams.
SSI: What’s getting better about the security industry these days? What seems to be getting worse and worse?
Parker: With the rise of AI and IoT cloud-based solutions, security systems are more advanced than ever before. This includes critical functions like firmware updates, system health monitoring, and ensuring proper functionality. Predictive maintenance powered by AI will continue to play a pivotal role in addressing vulnerabilities proactively, minimizing downtime and costs while bolstering security.
However, increasing interconnectivity of building management systems introduces new risks, such as unvetted device access and limited visibility into system components.
In 2025, facility managers will need to adopt a layered approach to risk management, focusing on prioritizing critical systems, implementing thorough remediation plans, and conducting continuous audits to stay ahead of potential threats.
SSI: What’s liable to catch some security dealers, installers and integrators off guard in the coming year?
Parker: The rise of technology brings incredible opportunities, but it also comes with growing risks. In 2024, infrastructure security faced significant threats, highlighting the increasing challenges from both physical vulnerabilities and cyberattacks. As threats become more sophisticated, the demand to secure buildings and connected devices will only intensify.
SSI: Finish this sentence: 2025 will be remembered as the year that the security industry …
Parker: … fully embraced integrated solutions, transforming the way buildings are protected and operate. As building owners recognize the benefits, they’ll see how these systems not only improve occupant safety but also safeguard the operating health of their building.
While expert knowledge remains essential for managing complex scenarios, technology will take security to new heights, offering smarter, more efficient and sustainable solutions with real-time monitoring and faster response times.
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