ESA members recently cast their votes to fill several open positions on the ESA board of directors.

Board members work collectively to ensure sound governance, establish strategic direction, and implement policies that drive the association’s goals forward. They also monitor progress and outcomes to ensure ESA remains aligned with its vision.

“Congratulations to the candidates and the LINC Committee on a competitive, well-run election,” said ESA Chairman and Doyle Security COO Kevin Stone. “Your dedication and commitment to serving ESA and the electronic security industry helps lead us forward. Special thanks to the candidates for stepping up and contributing to a vibrant and engaging election process.”

In accordance with ESA’s Bylaws, this year’s election included positions for three Integrator directors, and one associate member director. Voting opened on May 12, 2025, and closed on June 3, 2025. The election was conducted electronically through a secure third-party platform to ensure transparency, accuracy, and integrity.

Jeremy Bates – integrator director

vice president of business development – Pye-Barker, Lexington, Ky.

Bates serves as president of Bates Security which has five offices in the Kentucky and Florida markets serving a primarily commercial customer base. In 2018, Bates Security was honored with the SDM Dealer of the Year Award. Bates has been an active leader in the security industry, currently serving as vice chair on the ESA board of directors and has held positions as president of Kentucky’s ESA and the Sonitrol National Dealers Association. In 2024 Bates Security was ranked as one of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky. Bates Security is a Pye-Barker Fire & Safety company and Bates recently accepted a vice president of development position with Pye-Barker in addition to his role as president for Bates Security.

“I am very excited to continue serving our industry as a member of the ESA board of directors,” said Bates. “I believe in the valuable services our industry provides and it’s important to support an organization like ESA that is always looking to advance our membership’s best interests so they can do the best for the customers and their teams.”

Melissa Brinkman – integrator director 

CEO – Custom Alarm, Rochester, Mn.

Brinkman started her career in the security industry after moving back to her hometown, Rochester, Mn., in December 1998. Since starting in the ‘family’ business in 1998, Brinkman has held several positions within Custom Alarm from marketing to sales manager, business development director, and customer services manager. She was chief operating officer before Leigh J. Johnson, founder and CEO at the time, announced his retirement and Melissa’s promotion to CEO in February 2014. She has always been very committed to learning as much as possible about the security industry and Custom Alarm with a focus on taking care of the customer.

“I’m honored to have been re-elected to the ESA board,“ said Brinkman. “Serving this industry and representing the voices of security companies, especially small to midsize, is a responsibility I take seriously. I look forward to continuing our work, advocating for our members, advancing our mission, and ensuring that the critical role we play in our communities protecting people and property is recognized and supported. Thank you to my peers for your trust and confidence.”

Brendan Armstrong – integrator director

controller – Trinity Wiring & Security Solutions, Chantilly, Va.

Having spent his entire career at Trinity Wiring & Security Solutions, Armstrong said he consider it a privilege to be able to give back to an industry that has been so good to his family. Armstrong’s career began as a member of Trinity’s Builder Sales Team while pursuing an undergraduate degree in accounting from George Mason University. After graduation, he spent time involved in and learning from all aspects of a security integration/monitoring firm – operations, human resources, business development, financial oversight, merger and acquisition activity, tax strategy, vendor negotiations, etc. After years of hands-on experience, Armstrong knew a greater level of classroom instruction was required before truly becoming the business leader he wanted to be so (while continuing to work full-time). He enrolled at Georgetown University to pursue his Masters in Business Administration. As a leader of the firm, his goal is to create a company culture focused on constantly challenging ourselves by stepping outside of our comfort zone to embrace tomorrow’s technology and implement it into our business units. 

“I’m truly honored to be re-elected to the ESA board of directors,” said Armstrong. “The trust and support of my peers mean a great deal to me, and I’m more energized than ever to help guide the future of our industry. Over the next two years, I plan to focus on strengthening member engagement, promoting workforce development, and advancing innovative security solutions. Together, we’ll continue building a safer, smarter, and more connected future for our communities.”

Jake Voll – associate director

CEO - SS&Si Dealer Network, N.J.

Voll is the president of SS&Si Dealer Network, an independent distribution company serving over 1,000 security integrators nationwide. With branch locations outside Orlando, Fla., and Huntsville, Al., SS&Si provides competitive pricing, private labeling, fast shipping, marketing support, vendor programs, and funding solutions. In his role, Voll holds full P&L responsibility and oversees sales, marketing, customer support, vendor relationships, strategy, and partnerships. Voll’s career in the security industry began in high school, working in his family’s alarm business, where he gained hands-on experience in technical operations, sales, and marketing. In 2006, he launched an e-commerce company specializing in security products, later developing a professional partner program in 2009. In 2010, he shifted his focus entirely to SS&Si Dealer Network, helping it grow into a trusted distribution partner for security professionals across the country. 

“I’m incredibly honored to join the ESA board of directors,” said Voll. “This industry has given so much to me and my family, and I’m excited for the opportunity to give back. I look forward to representing both integrators and associate members and working together to build an even stronger future for our community.”