PLANO, Texas — As with most people in the security industry, it wasn’t a straight line for Lauren Yonis when it comes to her path to becoming global events manager at acre security.
Here’s more from Yonis, in her own words, as part of our ongoing celebration of International Women’s History Month.
Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?
Lauren Yonis: After graduating college, I started working at a small company in a small town. However, I soon realized I wanted to return to the city, so I accepted an entry-level sales role. It didn’t take long to discover that cold calling and pulling handles weren’t the right fit for me.
During that time, I came across a job listing on Indeed for a Marketing Coordinator position at Open Options and decided to apply. The interview turned out to be the best I’ve ever experienced—an open, engaging conversation that left me inspired by the endless possibilities of being able to make an impact in protecting the people and places I love with access control.
SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?
Yonis: Battling my own imposter syndrome—a year after I joined Open Options, the company was acquired by acre. The transition brought staffing changes that directly affected me, reducing our marketing team of three to just me. I didn’t feel prepared to take on the responsibility alone, but I was determined to learn, give it my best, and earn my place at the table.
To combat the feeling of imposter syndrome, I have leaned on mentors and taken time to seek new learning and networking opportunities.
SSI: Whom would you point to as the most influential and helpful mentors in your career? What did they do to help you?
Yonis: I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors guide me along the way. If I had to narrow it down, three names come to mind: June Colagreco, Kim Loy and Jenna Hardie.
June joined as a consultant shortly after acre acquired Open Options. One of the first things she told me was, “We’re either going to sink or swim and I don’t sink!” Her unwavering confidence and determination were exactly what I needed to refocus and tackle the challenges ahead.
Later, I began reporting directly to Kim Loy at acre. I vividly remember feeling anxious about starting a family and confiding in her. I told her I wanted to achieve big things in my career but also prioritize building a family and taking the time for it.
At one point, I even considered leaving the industry altogether to work for a water slide company (yes, seriously!). But Kim encouraged me to stay in the industry, emphasizing the wealth of opportunities available. Her advice kept me grounded and inspired.
Jenna Hardie became my mentor last fall through SIA RISE, almost by serendipity. Since then, I’ve cherished the opportunity to learn from her experience and grow both personally and professionally.
These mentors have been instrumental in shaping my journey and I’m incredibly grateful for their guidance.
SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?
Yonis: Kicking off an industry trend with custom acre sneakers at ISC West last year! It was such a creative, unexpected idea—and the response from attendees was incredible. Seeing the buzz it generated reinforced how powerful creative thinking can be in this industry.
SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?
Yonis: The people and the purpose! Over the past seven-plus years in the industry, I’ve been fortunate to build incredible relationships—whether with former colleagues or technology partners I’ve collaborated with on joint marketing campaigns. It’s highly rewarding to be part of an industry that has a big impact in the safety of our favorite people and places.
SSI: How can the security industry become even better?
Yonis: By continuing to amplify diverse voices and perspectives, we can ensure that innovation and creativity keep breaking new ground.
Click here to check out the entire Women in Security Q&A series!
