We keep the Best Advice Q&A series rolling with Scott Shelander, president and chief executive officer for AlarMax Distributors. He shares the best advice he’s ever gotten, offers tips for young security industry professionals and divulges who has inspired him most in his career.
Security Sales & Integration: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Scott Shelander: One of my mentors once told me, “You will only go as far as you are willing to grow.” He reinforced that belief with a simple but powerful principle: leaders are readers.
That advice stayed with me because growth is never accidental; it’s intentional and it requires a constant commitment to learning and self-improvement.
SSI: What advice would you give to those looking to achieve success in the security industry?
Shelander: Stay curious and commit to continuous learning. Our industry is evolving rapidly and success requires developing new skills and adapting to change. I often reference the quote, “What got you here won’t get you there,” because it perfectly captures the need to keep growing as the environment changes.
Equally important is maintaining a strong focus on client needs. When you truly understand your customers and leverage the support systems, tools and resources around you, you put yourself in the best position to succeed and grow sustainably.
SSI: If you could point to one person in the security industry and tell up-and-comers, “Make sure to listen to what they have to say,” whom would you pick and why?
Shelander: I’ll mention two individuals who exemplify what great leadership looks like in our industry.
First is the late Ken Cabler, a lifelong industry veteran who left a lasting legacy. Ken mastered the balance between deep knowledge and the ability to connect with others. He didn’t just accumulate expertise; he used it to elevate those around him, which is the true mark of leadership.
Second is Jay Heffernan, a 38-plus-year industry veteran and a personal friend. Jay understands that, at its core, this is a relationship-driven business. He embodies the importance of a handshake, doing what you say you’re going to do and not taking yourself too seriously—because enjoying the work and the people matters.
Click here to check out all entries in SSI’s Best Advice series!
