We continue our series asking security industry leaders to share their reflections on the biggest happenings in the sector in 2025 with Merlin Guilbeau, executive director and chief executive officer of the Electronic Security Association (ESA).
We’ll share his 2026 security industry predictions in a future post.
Security Sales & Integration: What has been the most surprising development in the security industry this year?
Merlin Guilbeau: One of the most surprising developments in the security industry this year has been the speed at which integrators have begun to genuinely embrace artificial intelligence. For years, AI has been a talking point — something that felt “on the horizon.” But 2025 was the year it shifted from concept to practical implementation and integrators started seeking real frameworks, training and business strategies to deploy it effectively.
The Executive Leadership education at our Electronic Security Expo (ESX) is leaning into AI in 2026, offering a hands-on, high-value workshop designed specifically for decision-makers.
Specialists will walk executives through interactive frameworks to identify high-impact AI opportunities across core business functions — including HR, finance, operations, sales and marketing — with a focus on streamlining processes, enhancing talent retention and driving competitive advantage.
Leaders will walk away with a roadmap for launching successful pilot projects, a method for evaluating AI tools with measurable ROI, and a clear playbook for creating a cohesive talent–AI partnership inside their organizations. ESX is intentionally building executive-level content like this because AI adoption is no longer optional, and leaders need real-world tools they can use the moment they return to their businesses.
