WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Tracy Larson never planned to be in the security industry — and she probably never expected to see her company acquired, but both have happened to her, and she’s kept moving forward.
Here’s her story in her own word as part of our celebration of International Women’s History Month.
Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?
Tracy Larson: I was the vice president for real estate and facilities at a $2 billion software company. I inherited technical security and was tasked with creating an electronic access control and badging management system utilizing our private area network for 70,000-plus employees. This was a tall order that I knew nothing about.
At the time, this was a very progressive concept and a very interesting way to come into the industry. I was so fortunate to have the guidance of an incredibly smart and solution-oriented integrator. The intrigue has lasted!
SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?
Larson: Sure, many along the way. I am stronger because of these experiences. One example was realizing that I was being paid less than male counterparts for the same title and many times, I had more responsibility.
Also, there were many times in construction and technical meetings, when it was assumed that I was not the person with authority. It was always interesting to see faces and attitudes change after realizing that I not only had the authority but, the experience and knowledge, and was ultimately the person they were working for.
Ultimately, the outcome is most important: learning how to handle challenges, what I would do differently, accept or not and what to do next.
SSI: Whom would you point to as the most influential and helpful mentors in your career? What did they do to help you?
Larson: My first manager and supervisor were both highly influential. They taught me so much about operating within the corporate world. They challenged me with complex, high value, and important projects and provided guidance while simultaneously letting me navigate new and serious waters. They also had high expectations of me and continued to raise the bar.
I learned the importance of responsibility and accountability in business and that high performance led to better projects, promotion, and increased experience. I was also extremely fortunate to receive mentorship from a consulting business partner at a very pivotal and difficult time in my career.
Knowing that someone believed so strongly in my abilities, especially when I was much younger than many people I was leading and working for, was a huge boost to my confidence. I recognized that this person was truly putting me first without a hidden agenda and a desire to see me succeed. That is powerful and what mentorship is all about.
SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?
Larson: Building a successful company against serious odds and volatile economic times. That said, it is important that I recognize that this is achieved by a team of people who are dedicated daily to our collective success. It makes me very proud and fulfilled when I see members of our team achieve meaningful milestones and recognize their personal growth. That is a source of pride and real satisfaction.
SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?
Larson: I have found incredible people doing incredible things in this industry. Our industry has purpose. That is very important to me. I go to work every day with a sense of purpose and excitement for what will come next. This industry has provided me huge ROI because of the people and opportunities presented and that I committed to getting involved. I love that I continue to be challenged by an industry that also continues to evolve.
SSI: How can the security industry become even better?
Larson: Our attitude and actions to contribute to the success of the industry are so important. Committing to leaving this industry better than we found it is one of the best goals each of us can have.
Leaders bring up future leaders; volunteer and give back; mentor others and receive mentorship; drive technology for new solutions; invest in team and personal education; be solution-oriented, and continue to expand opportunity for entry to the industry at all levels.
Click here to read our entire Women in Security Q&A series!
