The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) — the industry’s premier event for owners and leaders of electronic security and life safety companies from across the country and beyond — is proud to announce its 2026 Educational Advisors.  

These leaders will shape the educational programming for ESX 2026, taking place June 1–4 at the Irving Convention Center in Irving, TX, to create a high impact experience designed BY and FOR the pro-installed channel. 

Working closely with ESA’s team, this group met this week to review attendee feedback, analyze event metrics, and consider current industry challenges. This group will curate the most relevant tech trends, processes, go-to market strategies, and revenue opportunities to feature at ESX 2026, ensuring content is relevant, actionable, and designed to enhance recurring revenue streams.  

The ESX educational program is consistently ranked as the top in the industry for its success in equipping teams with strategies they can put into practice right away.

ESX education covers Sales & Marketing, Field Operations, Management, Monitoring and Executive Leadership with focuses on increasing efficiencies, growing revenue, and company value – with special attention to building RMR.  

The 2026 advisors include seasoned experts across sales, finance, communications, field efficiencies, fire codes and standards, customer loyalty, corporate strategy and recurring revenue.

“Serving on the ESX Education Advisory Board has been an incredible opportunity to collaborate with some of the very best minds in the industry.” says Scott Elkins, CEO, Zeus Fire and Security “I’ve seen firsthand how the board’s work shapes meaningful conversations that help companies elevate their people and practices – and therefore their businesses!  I’m looking forward to continuing this journey and contributing to an amazing event that continues to drive best practice innovation across our industry. I can’t wait to see so many friends and colleagues at ESX 2026!” 

The 2026 ESX Advisory Board Includes:  

• Jason Alestra, VP of Sales, Vicon (Exhibitor Expert) 

• Jeremy Bates, Vice President of Business Development, Pye-Barker Fire and Security (Management Expert) 

• Dean Belisle, Director of Key Accounts, DMP (Sales Expert) 

• April Chastain, VP of Internal Operations & Merger Implementation, Owen Security (Operations Expert) 

• Tammy Cozby, Vice President Monitoring Operations, Everon (Monitoring Expert) 

• Eric Eddy, Director, Zeus Fire and Security (Operations Expert) 

• Scott Elkins, CEO, Zeus Fire and Security (Management Expert) 

• Janet Fenner, President, Defined Marketing (Marketing Expert) 

• Johnathan George, CEO, iWired (Operations Expert) 

• Peter Goldring, President, Goldring Protection (Fire Expert) 

• Lynnie Guzman, Director of Sales and Marketing, Holmes Security Systems (Marketing Expert) 

• Kirk MacDowell, President, MacGuard Security Advisors (Management Expert) 

• Chris Peterson, President, Vector Firm (Sales Expert) 

• Spencer Rogers, Partner, Barnes and Associates (Management Expert) 

• Andy Shartzer, Technical Evangelist, Pelco (Technical Expert/Video Expert) 

• Kevin Stone, COO, Doyle Security (Management Expert)

“ESX 2026 will be my second year serving as an advisor and my fourth time attending ESX.” says Lynnie Guzman, Director of Sales and Marketing, Holmes Security Systems “Engaging with this community has been transformative, helping me accelerate my learning and build meaningful industry connections in a field that was new for me just five years ago. I’m excited to collaborate with such a passionate group of professionals who are dedicated to helping one another grow, drive new revenue opportunities, and ultimately strengthen the life-safety of our communities.” 

Registration for ESX 2026 will open in November, giving security professionals time to plan and budget to bring their teams. With world-class education, networking opportunities, and an expo floor filled with the latest innovations, ESX 2026 is set to be a can’t-miss event for security professionals. 

While ESX 2025 is now in the rearview mirror, security pros will have the coming months ahead to apply many of the best practices and business insights to their organizations. 

The event promises quality interactions and best practice sharing among leaders in the electronic security and life safety industry. This is THE event for education and networking in the channel — and the ESX 2025 event delivered just that.

The show’s impact will ripple well into 2026, when the industry’s leaders will gather again June 1-4 in Irving, TX for ESX 2026. 

ESX 2025 jumped 10 Net Promoter Score points from 2024. Creating a rare and impactful experience according to industry standards.

100% of attendees rated ESX Educational Opportunities “Very Good” or “Excellent”

87% of attendees said they will make a purchase or form a partnership as a result of a quality conversation had at ESX. 

TOP 10 EDUCATION SESSIONS:

WHAT ATTENDEES ARE SAYING ABOUT ESX

“I met with vendors that I plan to do business with that definitely wouldn’t have been on my radar if it weren’t for this show,” says Eddie Buckley, president of Certified Alarm Company. “ESX delivers a multifaceted offering that will ignite any security professional’s personal and organizational development.”

“ESX is easy to navigate, high touch — high impact.”

“ESX has once again proven why it’s one of the most important gatherings in the electronic security and life safety industry. The event featured powerful keynote speakers who inspired, challenged, and energized us. From visionary leaders to real-world disruptors, each keynote left us with new ideas and renewed purpose—reminding us why we do what we do and how we can lead this industry forward,” says John Nemerofsky, COO of Sage Integration.

“This was my first, but will not be my last,” says Terry Bunch, CEO of Flylock Security Solutions in Jacksonville and Tallahassee. “It was a great investment of my time.”

“From the expo floor to after-hours laughs, ESX brought the perfect mix of innovation, inspiration, and good vibes!” – Jessica Ping, Marketing Strategist, Pye-Barker

WHAT EXHIBITORS ARE SAYING ABOUT ESX

“ESX – Electronic Security Expo was a great opportunity for me to work my first large tradeshow and I’m grateful it was here in Atlanta!” – Shaunte Sivas, SMB Manager, Hanwha Vision America

“Bold Group was thrilled to attend ESX – Electronic Security Expo! The energy was high on the show floor—from engaging conversations with both familiar and new faces to insightful takeaways from industry leaders and innovators. We left feeling inspired and energized about the future of the security industry. Thanks to everyone who stopped by and helped make the event a success. See you next time!” – Bold Group

“ESX was a great experience for us to attend to break into the security market,” says Danny Hobbs Business Development Manager of Tactacam.

“ESX was a great experience once again,” says Brian Bucholtz, Channel & Referral Partner Director of Edgeworth Security. “The venue, events, and setting were perfect to bring together the top experts in the industry.”

“It was a great opportunity to connect with professionals across the industry, explore cutting edge security innovations, and see where the future of security is headed.”

ESX has announced its dynamic 2025 schedule, set to provide an unparalleled experience for professionals in the electronic security and life safety industry. Taking place June 16-19 at the Cobb Galleria Centre, this year’s event features an expanded lineup of educational sessions, hands-on workshops, inspiring main stage speakers, networking opportunities, and an engaging expo floor showcasing the latest technology. 

ESX 2025 attendees will explore cutting-edge technologies, gain practical business insights, and network with peers, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Cobb County, home of the Atlanta Braves.

Day 1 Highlights – Monday, June 16 

• Executive Leadership Workshop, Part 1: Learn how to inspire and support your team while addressing the challenges of burnout with actionable strategies tailored to senior leaders. Open to Executive Pass Types Only 

• Lunch for Executive Leadership: An exclusive opportunity for top executives to network in an intimate setting. 

• Executive Leadership Workshop, Part 2: Dive deeper into leadership strategies that optimize organizational performance and drive success. Open to Executive Pass Types Only 

• Opening Celebration: This lively kickoff event features Southern music, local craft beer, and regional cuisine, setting the tone for a fun and engaging week.

Day 2 Highlights – Tuesday, June 17 

• OpenXChange Breakfast: A morning gathering of industry leaders, sparking ideas that challenge the status quo and inspire forward-thinking solutions. More details coming soon! 

• Educational Breakouts: Topics include AI-powered video monitoring, strategies for sales growth, technician incentives, and more, offering actionable insights for professionals at all levels. 

• Keynote Luncheon with Kyle Scheele: Creativity expert Kyle Scheele will deliver an inspiring session, encouraging attendees to reimagine their approach to problem-solving. 

• Expo Hall Opening & Block Party: Celebrate Atlanta’s culture while exploring cutting-edge innovations at the highly anticipated Expo Hall opening event. 

• Pub Crawl: The Pub Crawl is a great casual way to interact with other professionals in the electronic security and life safety industry. This is where work meets play and industry friendships are formed. The Pub Crawl is open to all pass holders. 

Day 3 Highlights – Wednesday, June 18 

• Educational Breakouts: Sessions cover AI in marketing, project management strategies, and tactics to enhance recurring monthly revenue (RMR). 

• General Session & Weinstock Award: Celebrate industry excellence and gain inspiration during this powerful gathering on the Main Stage. More details to be announced soon! 

• Expo Open & Tailgating Party: Network with top vendors and discover the latest in security technology at the bustling Expo Hall. The Expo Tailgating Party brings the energy and excitement of game day to life! Themed around Atlanta’s love of sports, each corner of the expo will immerse you in a different iconic baseball-inspired experience. 

• Weinstock Celebration: Join us for the Weinstock Celebration to celebrate the ESA Weinstock Person of the Year under the lights at Truist Park as the Atlanta Braves take the field vs. the New York Mets! Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, this is the perfect way to experience America’s favorite pastime with industry leaders. The Weinstock Celebration ticket can be added onto your registration purchase. Fee includes your ballpark ticket, access to the Hank Aaron Terrace and food/beverage (alcoholic drinks available for purchase separately). 

Day 4 Highlights – Thursday, June 19 

• Morning Education Sessions: Explore key topics, including subcontractor relationships, fire alarm maintenance, and K-12 safety and security innovations. 

• Closing Lunch & Security Technician of the Year Award: Join us for the Closing Lunch, where we honor the exceptional achievements of the Security Technician of the Year while wrapping up an exciting week of learning and networking.

View Full ESX 2025 Schedule 

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow at ESX 2025. For the full schedule and details, visit Upcoming events – ESX. 

Ways to Save on ESX Registration 

ESX is an ideal forum for security professionals to learn about the latest technology, acquire proven business strategies and new insights based on best practices, and interact with peers to grow a trusted network. Security pros can take advantage of early bird registration rates until Friday, April 18, 2025.      

ESX offers special team registration discounts:  

• Register 5 or more people and receive 10% off  

• Register 10+ people and receive 20% off  

*There will be no discount added to an Expo Only pass or a spouse pass, but they will count towards the total count to get to 5 or 10 people*  

This incentive promotes full team involvement and facilitates training and networking opportunities at a reduced cost.  

ESA Member Discounts 

Members of ESA save on every ESX pass purchased. Check your company’s membership status here. New members save even more!If your company has recently joined ESA in the last year, you’ll enjoy $200 off of the already discounted member rates on every Executive Pass and $100 off of each Deluxe Pass. 

Written By Merlin Guilbeau

Register now at www.esxweb.com/register to secure your spot at ESX 2025 and position your company at the forefront of industry innovation and recurring revenue success! 

In today’s competitive landscape, the advancement of recurring revenue models is reshaping the electronic security and life safety industry. ESX 2025 offers a unique platform for attendees to explore innovative strategies, gain actionable insights, and connect with peers who are navigating this essential transition. 

Key Features of ESX 2025 

1. Insightful Speakers: Learn from industry pioneers who have successfully implemented recurring revenue strategies in their businesses. Their experiences and insights will empower you to rethink your business model and enhance profitability. 

1. Strategic Workshops: Attend targeted sessions designed for decision-makers, focusing specifically on best practices for developing and scaling recurring revenue streams. Explore topics like subscription models, service contracts, and customer retention strategies. 

1. Innovative Exhibit Hall: Discover cutting-edge products and services that facilitate recurring revenue. Engage with vendors offering solutions that enhance service offerings and customer loyalty, driving sustainable growth. 

1. Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow executives and industry leaders. Building relationships with peers can lead to valuable partnerships and collaborative strategies for maximizing recurring revenue in your organization. 

As the industry continues to evolve, leaders must adapt their strategies to ensure long-term success. ESX 2025 will provide the inspiration and tools necessary to not only implement recurring revenue models but also to lead your teams through the transformative process. This event is a chance to share experiences and learn from those who have successfully embraced this concept. 

Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of ESX 2025. This event is designed for leaders committed to advancing their companies and the electronic security and life safety industry as a whole. Join us in Cobb County, Georgia, and unlock your potential to shape a sustainable, profitable future. 

The Electronic Security Association (ESA) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its 2025 Electronic Security Expo (ESX). This trade show and educational conference, known to dealers and integrators as The RMR Educational Event of the Year, is designed by and for electronic security and life safety integrators and dealers. ESX 2025 will be held June 16-19 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Cobb County, Atlanta, GA. 

ESX is an ideal forum for security professionals to learn about the latest technology, acquire proven business strategies and new insights based on best practices, and interact with peers to grow a trusted network. Security pros can take advantage of early bird registration rates until Friday, April 18, 2025.     

Bring the Team to ESX   

ESX is an exclusive opportunity for security professionals to leverage powerful educational sessions. It delivers many team-centric benefits and, to underscore this team-focused effort, ESX offers special team registration discounts: 

• Register 5 or more people and receive 10% off 

• Register 10+ people and receive 20% off 

*There will be no discount added to an Expo Only pass or a spouse pass, but they will count towards the total count to get to 5 or 10 people* 

This incentive promotes full team involvement and facilitates training and networking opportunities at a reduced cost.  

“ESX 2025 promises to continue the tradition of offering attendees the very best of educational offerings, innovation, and extensive networking opportunities,” says George De Marco, ESX Chairman. “We’re pleased to announce that early bird registration is now open and look forward to welcoming security professionals eager to stay on top of the latest technologies, best practices, and trends shaping the ever-evolving security industry.”  

Spots can be secured now at www.esxweb.com/register. 
 

Excitement on the Show Floor 

The Expo’s show floor is the place to be for attendees to meet up close and personal with industry manufacturers and other exhibitors providing invaluable insights such as sales and marketing strategies, product demos, installation training, and more. The event is designed to facilitate one-on-one interactions and quality dialogues that provide attendees with valuable information they can harness to grow their businesses and RMR.  Expo Booth spaces and sponsorship opportunities are still available but limited. Learn more here – www.esxweb.com/esx-floor-plan 

Networking Events That Bring the Industry Together 

ESX has earned its reputation for providing participants with a broad array of meaningful and fun networking events that include the:    

• Opening Celebration: A grand kickoff event with hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and live music to launch a week of connecting, knowledge-sharing, and industry advancement!    

• Pub Crawl: Take in the nightlife that is uniquely Atlanta, while forging new industry friendships and nurturing old ones during this casual and fun night out on the town. Stops include Murph’s, The Tavern at Live!, and Park Bench Battery.  

• Weinstock Celebration: Celebrate the ESA Weinstock Person of the Year under the lights at Truist Park as the Atlanta Braves take the field vs. the New York Mets! Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, this is the perfect way to experience America’s favorite pastime with industry leaders. The Weinstock Celebration ticket can be added onto your registration purchase. Fee includes your ballpark ticket, access to the Hank Aaron Terrace and food/beverage (alcoholic drinks available for purchase separately). 

Exceptional Educational Programming  

Beyond the excitement of the Expo show floor, dealers, integrators, and monitoring professionals holding the Deluxe or Executive Pass can also take part in over 30 exceptional educational sessions led by peers and industry thought leaders. 

Book Your Stay at a Discounted Rate  

We are partnering with the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel for ESX 2025! Conveniently connected to the Cobb Galleria Centre, this hotel gives attendees ultra-easy access to attend sessions, network, and retreat back to their rooms. Secure your registration for ESX 2025 today and take advantage of specially curated official ESX hotel choices at discounted rates. The deadline to book is Monday, May 26, 2025.  

Kyle Scheele, renowned speaker beloved for his ability to catalyze creativity with humor, heart, and yes, even crazy ideas, will deliver the Keynote speech at the Electronic Security Expo – (ESX) 2025. His videos have been viewed over 250 million times, and he has spoken to hundreds of thousands of audience members across the U.S. Scheele is known for inspiring people in such an engaging way that his audiences are so busy having a great time that they don’t even realize they’re being challenged, stretched, and equipped to do better creative work than they’ve ever done.  

He will take to the Mainstage on Tuesday, June 17, 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM, which will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, GA. His Keynote Luncheon presentation – “Becoming an Idea Factory: How to Turn Yourself and Your Organization into an Innovation Machine” – will inspire audience members to harness their own capacity for creativity and innovation. Scheele will give practical tips on how leaders and their teams can glean more and better ideas, teach them how to be more creative, and build a culture where innovation is a natural byproduct.  

“The Electronic Security Association is immensely proud to announce Kyle Scheele as the Keynote Speaker at ESX 2025,” says George De Marco, ESX Chairman. “He is an amazingly inspirational talent. His motivational presentation will amplify the underlying objectives of ESX, which is to present fresh perspectives, share best practices and ideas, and provide industry-leading educational offerings. Scheele will bring his own unique energy to ESX 2025 – the must-attend event for electronic security and life safety dealers, integrators, and monitoring companies committed to business growth and competitive edge.”  

The 2025 ESX Keynote Luncheon will take place just steps away from the Expo floor and is open to Executive, Deluxe and Expo Plus pass holders.  This Main Stage Media sponsor is Security Systems News.

The 2025 Sara Jackson Award Winner Will Be Presented
Additionally, the 2025 Sara E. Jackson Memorial Award will be presented at this Main Stage event. This award honors the memory of the 1950-51 ESA President and recognizes an ESA volunteer who has exhibited exceptional leadership skills on an ESA committee, task force or board. The award is graciously sponsored by Telguard, ESA’s exclusive Platinum Executive Strategic Partner.

The Electronic Security Association (ESA) is proud to announce that Michael Bonner, a renowned innovator and trailblazer in leadership development and organizational culture, will kick off the Executive Leadership Workshops at the 2025 Electronic Security Expo (ESX). Bonner will lead Part 1 of the two-part Executive Leadership Workshops at ESX on Monday, June 16^th 11:45AM – 1:15 PM ET.

Michael Bonner, an acclaimed speaker with experience in the Ron Clark Academy and his own company, Bonnerville, Bonner brings practical, impactful insights on culture and vision. His seminars challenge listeners to reflect, strategize, and execute to increase their efficiency in the workplace and build relationships with their teams and colleagues.

The workshop, entitled Battling Burn Out: How the Best Leaders Inspire, Support and Motivate Teams will explore how great leaders can combat burnout by fostering a culture of inspiration, support, and motivation. Attendees will learn proven strategies to reignite passion in their team, promote well-being, and create a sustainable, high-performance work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover how to foster a “can-do” attitude, ensuring every employee sees themselves as capable learners.
• Learn how to connect achievement with real-world success, motivating employees to invest in their education.
• Proven strategies to reignite passion in your team, promote well-being, and create a sustainable, high-performance work environment.
• Explore healthy approaches to failure, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
• Discover the power of constructive criticism for honing your craft.

As George De Marco, Chairman of ESX notes, “We are thrilled to host Michael Bonner. He is a visionary leader who strives to create a positive mindset among his listeners. Attendees will discover how to lead with empathy, develop resilience, and empower their team to thrive even in the most demanding of circumstances. Whether managing a small group or a large organization, these actionable insights will help attendees become more impactful leaders.”

As part of the ESX Executive Leadership track, this two-part workshop is an ideal opportunity for connecting with, learning from, and growing with other C-Suite operators and owners of electronic security and life safety companies. It is open to ESX attendees who register for the Executive Level Pass Type.

Scheduled for June 16-19 in Cobb County, Atlanta, GA, ESX 2025 the premier conference and trade show is the must-attend event for electronic security and life safety dealers, integrators, and monitoring companies committed to business growth and competitive edge.

APPLY TO SPEAK AT ESX

“The quality of education at ESX is unmatched,” says George De Marco, ESX Chairman. “It’s thanks to content delivered by fellow security pros who are in the trenches, running companies day in and day out. We welcome fresh perspectives from those with unique approaches, sharing best practices and ideas to empower entrepreneurs and decision-makers in effectively managing and expanding their organizations.” 

What ESX Searches for in Presenters 

ESX’s core objective is peer-to-peer learning, seeking security dealers and integrators who have successfully implemented new practices, business models, products, or services. Sessions aim to deliver practical and meaningful business and industry intelligence for entrepreneurs, C-level executives, functional managers, and influencers. The ESX Advisors have identified key topics for the 2025 education program, to be announced soon. This call for presenters officially closes on January 31, 2025. 

Benefits for Presenting at ESX 

• Establishing Authority: Showcase your expertise and position yourself as an industry authority. 

• Networking: Connect with over 50 industry experts speaking in the ESX program, potential collaborators, and future employers or clients. 

• Professional Development: Enhance your personal and professional growth through research, organization, and effective communication. 

• Visibility and Exposure: Gain significant visibility within the industry, leading to recognition, collaborations, and media coverage. 

• Contributing to the Community: Share your insights and experiences to enrich the collective knowledge base of the industry. 

• Savings on ESX Registrations: Enjoy a 30% discount on ESX registrations. 

ESX Education Tracks 

Operations Track: Sponsored by The Connection Xchange (TCX) 

• Improve operational excellence and customer experience, build efficiencies in installation and service methodologies, and address common operational struggles. 

Monitoring Track:  

• Learn best practices in operator training, technology infrastructure, and monitoring processes for next-gen central stations. 

Sales Track: 

• Develop your brand and go-to-market strategy, identify new products and services, and enhance sales management processes. 

Management Track:

• Implement key performance indicators, build a strong organizational culture, and explore emerging trends and technologies. 

Education Session Sponsorship Options Are Available 

Manufacturers and service providers are encouraged to partner with their integrators and dealers to submit a speaker application. Educational opportunities for manufacturers and service providers to drive thought leadership around industry trends are available through sponsorship purchases, including 60-minute and 30-minute Tech Talk sessions. The Executive Leadership track is also available for sponsorship, allowing companies to provide introductory remarks and branding alongside executive-level content provided by ESX. 

For more information about exhibiting and sponsoring options, visit: ESX Sponsorship Information