The Security Industry Association (SIA)
The Security Industry Association (SIA) is the Washington, D.C.-area organization which represents manufacturers, service providers, and distributors of electronic security equipment. http://www.siaonline.org
SIA is an international trade association, formed in 1969, whose membership has grown today to almost 400 companies. SIA's members include professionals from every phase of the business from manufacture to installation, and their clients run the gamut of the economic sector: commercial, institutional, residential, and government. Technology, products and services offered by members include, but are not limited to: access control; biometrics; surveillance cameras and systems; fire detection and suppression; home automation; intrusion; remote and wireless monitoring; personal security products and response systems; mobile security; lock hardware; and many specialized services.
Mission and Activities
SIA is dedicated to promoting growth, advancement, and professionalism within the security industry. Its activities fall into four core concentrations: government relations, research & technology, education & training, and standards.
- Government Relations:
In the arena of Government Relations, SIA serves a dual role - that of both educator and advocate. SIA staff informs members of timely and relevant policy initiatives, federal regulations, and appropriation activities. Additionally, SIA hosts the Government Sales & Marketing Summit to introduce its member companies to the government marketplace. This annual, interactive networking event is designed to connect attendees with policy and business opportunities by introducing them to decision-makers throughout government.
- Education & Training:
SIA offers a wide range of education and training programs for security professionals who install and service electronic security equipment and systems. Most courses are delivered online, though some are delivered by an instructor in a traditional classroom setting. Qualified security professionals may obtain two certifications through SIA - Central Station Operator Instructor (CSOI) or Certified Security Project Manager (CSPM). SIA is also very proud of the work it has done in conjunction with NICET, a nationally recognized certification organization, to build a series of professional video certifications. In support of SIA's goal to advance development and professionalism across the industry, SIA hosts and maintains an e-learning web portal (http://www.securitylearningnetwork.com/), which includes information on and links to a host of training opportunities in the security industry.
- Research & Technology:
Market and technology news, trends and information is vital to SIA member companies and to the business and investment communities today. In addition to providing daily news feeds, SIA currently produces two quarterly publications - Quarterly Research Update and Quarterly Technical Update. These publications address the most topical trend issues from both a technological and business perspective.
- Standards:
SIA is an ANSI-approved Standards Development Organization. As such, SIA leads the development of systems integration and equipment performance standards. Standards staff also serves in an external liaison capacity, partnering with federal agencies, law enforcement, and other related associations to develop and advance standards.
Governance
SIA's board of directors is comprised of a President, Executive Committee, 19 Directors, and a representative from each of the following organizations: the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA); the Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA); Canadian Alarm and Security Association (CANASA) and the Latin American Security Association (ALAS). The board's broad industry representation and depth of experience contribute to SIA's leadership position within the industry.