SILVER SPRING, Md.—The Security Industry Association (SIA) has named Convergint account executive Nathan Wells as the first-ever recipient of the SIA Valuing Experience, Talent and Service (VETS) Award, presented by SIA’s Veterans in Security community.
SIA will present Wells with the award at SIA GovSummit, SIA’s annual public policy and government security technology conference, scheduled for May 20-21 in Washington, D.C.
The VETS Award honors an individual “who has shown exceptional dedication to supporting military veterans in the security industry,” according to the SIA announcement. It “recognizes leadership in championing veteran recruitment, mentoring and career development as well as advocating for initiatives that ease the transition from military to civilian roles.”
Why Did Nathan Wells Win the First SIA VETS Award?
Wells, a U.S. Navy veteran, has more than 20 years of experience leading strategic security initiatives for enterprise clients in the utility, government and critical infrastructure sectors. Beyond his professional success in driving revenue and optimizing complex security programs, he serves as the chairman of Convergint Veterans Connect. Under Wells’ leadership, the initiative grew from 40 to more than 100 members in 18 months.
His work focuses on “bridging the gap between military service and civilian career success, partnering with organizations like SIA to provide veterans with the tools, community and mentorship needed to thrive in the private sector,” according to the SIA announcement.
“I am deeply honored to receive the SIA VETS Award, but the real reward has been watching my fellow veterans realize that their service didn’t end when they took off the uniform,” said Wells. “In the security industry, we have a unique opportunity to give these men and women a place where their leadership and heart for protection truly belong.”
Wells’ veteran engagement efforts also include mentoring participants in Convergint’s College Development Program supporting early-career professionals, contributing more than 150 hours of volunteer service in 2025 in support of the veteran community.
He has also provided leadership and support at local Veterans Affairs health care facilities and assisted living centers, providing guidance to transitioning service members and veterans integrating into the civilian workforce, leading the development of a nationwide Veterans Day campaign and ongoing veteran recognition initiatives.
“SIA is proud to present the first-ever Valuing Experience, Talent and Service Award to Nathan Wells, valued veteran and an impressive leader who has had a strong impact on advancing veterans in our industry,” says SIA CEO Don Erickson in the association announcement.
“Nathan exemplifies the ideals of veteran leadership and service through a lasting commitment to mission, community and the development of others,” he says. “We thank Nathan for the meaningful work he has done to improve workplace opportunities and support for the veteran and military members of the security field and look forward to recognizing him at the 2026 SIA GovSummit.”
