The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) has named 10 winners for the 2025 Security Technician of the Year Awards. Now in its third year, this prestigious awards program highlights the critical role that security technicians play within the industry, celebrating their excellence in the meticulous design, installation and maintenance of security systems that safeguard our communities.

Security technicians are the unsung heroes on the front lines of safety, whose dedication and expertise help ensure that our homes, workplaces and national infrastructure remain secure. Recognizing these professionals is not just an acknowledgment of their tireless efforts but a testament to their pivotal role in advancing the security industry.

This year’s winners are standout examples of commitment and leadership, who have each demonstrated exceptional customer service, technological proficiency and professional integrity.

The 2025 Security Technician of the Year awardees are:

•    John Aquino, scDataCom

•    Jose Ayala, M.C. Dean

•    Ruben Cuevas, Preferred Technologies

•    Michael Daughraty, Siemens

•    Andrew Kowitt, Grid Squared Systems

•    Kenneth Meyers, Convergint Technologies

•    Mitch Nelson, Eastern Security Services

•    Dikul Patel, Convergint Technologies

•    Zach Patterson, Owen Security Solutions

•    Damon Rogers, Everon

“The 2025 Security Technician of the Year Awards shine a spotlight on the skilled professionals who form the backbone of our industry,” said FAST Board of Directors Chair John Nemerofsky. “Too often, technicians work behind the scenes without the recognition they deserve, yet they are the ones who ensure that the technologies and solutions we deliver actually protect people, property and communities. These men and women don’t just maintain systems — they safeguard lives, protect assets and drive innovation day in and day out. Their expertise, adaptability and problem-solving skills are what keep our clients safe and our industry moving forward. It is an honor for FAST to celebrate their extraordinary contributions, inspire the next generation of talent and reinforce the importance of investing in the growth and development of the security workforce.”

As an initiative of the Security Industry Association (SIA) and the Electronic Security Association (ESA), FAST is proud to bring the industry together to celebrate these outstanding awardees. FAST invites security companies and professionals to celebrate their achievements at the Security Technician of the Year Awards ceremony, which will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 4:00 p.m. EST on the Bridge Stage during ISC East 2025.