Commercial Integrator + Security Sales - January/February 2025 - 69

security solution that not only addresses today's challenges but
is also prepared to tackle the complexities of tomorrow's digital
environment.
SIA: What are the top challenges your company
has faced in the last year?
Waddle: The biggest challenge our team at Gallagher faced last
year was managing our growing pains. As we approach a record
number of team members, our methods of operation have
evolved, prompting us to seek innovative ways to work smarter,
not harder.
We are actively exploring strategies to enhance our efficiency
and collaboration, ensuring that we continue to thrive as our
organization expands.
SIA: What are the biggest opportunities your
company - and the industry - are seeing?
Waddle: The greatest opportunity for every company in the industry
lies in the potential for creativity - if only they dare to try!
Many of my colleagues have gone above and beyond to
expand the possibilities within our field, thinking outside the
box to deliver innovative solutions that some may not have even
considered feasible. This spirit of creativity is driving the industry
forward and unlocking new avenues for success.
SIA: What do you hope the SIA Women in Security
Forum can achieve for the security industry?
Waddle: I envision a future where, as we enter meetings or walk
onto the trade show floor, we witness a more equitable representation,
approaching a one-to-one ratio of men to women.
This balance will extend beyond sales and marketing roles,
with women taking the lead as speakers, guiding discussions on
how we can collaboratively enhance safety and security in our
world. Together, we can make this vision a reality!
SIA: What is your best advice for women in the industry?
Waddle: My foremost advice to women in the security industry is
to embrace the power of listening. Regardless of your position or
experience level, there is almost certainly someone in the room
who can impart valuable insights. By remaining open and receptive,
you can continuously learn and grow in this dynamic field.
SIA: Who or what was the strongest influence
in your career?
Waddle: God has guided me all my life to help people. Given the
many precious lives affected by preventable circumstances, I am
driven to enhance safety and well-being. Utilizing my marketing
skills to promote solutions that consistently save lives is the primary
reason I remain passionate about the security industry today.
SIA: How do you define success?
Waddle: I define success in my role by my personal growth and
development. Each day brings new learning opportunities that
I can apply across all areas of my life - from my professional
Jessica Waddle, who serves as a Women in Security Forum
(WISF) AmbassadHER, encourages women in the security
industry to " be strong and courageous. "
endeavors to my home life. This continuous growth is what truly
signifies success for me.
SIA: What would you say to new upcoming women in
the industry?
Waddle: To women who are new to the security industry, I
encourage you to advocate for yourselves. Remember the words,
" Be strong and courageous, " as the Lord reminds us.
It's essential to find a balance between being helpful and
ensuring that you're not taken advantage of. You are one
individual, and your mental and physical health should always
come first. Prioritize your well-being as you navigate this exciting
journey! SSI
SECURE Perspectives is a column by the Security Industry
Association (SIA), profiling women in the security industry.
This column is part of SIA's Women in Security Forum
(WISF), a community created to support the participation and
advancement of women in the security industry, which fosters
growth and advancement through programs, professional
development and networking opportunities.
January/February 2025 | Commercial Integrator+Security Sales & Integration
69
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Commercial Integrator + Security Sales - January/February 2025

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