The Electronic Security Association (ESA) just announced the formation of its AI Readiness Council (ARC), a forward-thinking initiative designed to help the electronic security and life safety industry navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in a responsible, practical and profitable way.
Priya Serai, chief information officer at Zeus Fire and Security, will lead the Council as its chairperson, bringing deep expertise and strategic vision to this groundbreaking effort. Serving alongside Serai as vice chair will be Matt Carlson, controller and accounting manager with Doyle Security, ensuring the Council’s work remains rooted in the real-world needs of security professionals.
What is the AI Readiness Council and Why Now?
Artificial intelligence is transforming the security industry on multiple fronts. It is redefining how systems are designed, sold, and maintained through innovations like predictive analytics, intelligent video, and biometric access control. At the same time, AI is reshaping the way security companies run their businesses. From marketing and sales automation to streamlined scheduling, installations, service, and billing, AI is becoming a powerful tool for improving efficiency and profitability.
With these opportunities come new challenges, including governance, compliance, and ethical considerations. Without clear guidance, companies risk falling behind or making misinformed decisions. ESA created ARC to ensure members stay ahead of this transformation
“ARC gives our members a way to lead, not just react, as AI reshapes the security landscape,” says Kevin Stone, ESA Chairman of the Board and Chief Operating Officer at Doyle Security. “This council is about real-world solutions that help integrators and business owners adopt AI with confidence and clarity.”
What Will the AI Readiness Council Do?
The Council will focus on four core areas:
- AI in Action: Highlighting real-world use cases in video surveillance, fire detection, intrusion systems, and central station monitoring.
- Ethics and Governance: Building frameworks to address bias, manage risk, and meet compliance standards.
- Standards and Best Practices: Developing operational and technical guidance for safe, scalable AI integration.
- Education, Workforce Readiness and Business Optimization: Delivering training content and pathways that build AI literacy, with a special emphasis on how AI can streamline marketing, sales, operations, installation, and billing for security companies.
“ARC is here to separate signal from noise,” says Serai, chair of the Council. “We want to help companies make informed decisions and understand the long-term impact of AI in our industry.”
Call for Volunteers
ESA is now seeking volunteers to serve on its AI Readiness Council. Council members will contribute to webinars, toolkits, white papers, and working groups focused on shaping the future of AI in the security space. Industry professionals passionate about innovation and leadership are encouraged to apply.
Industry professionals with a passion for innovation and leadership are encouraged to volunteer. Visit here to apply.
