Dr. Elli Reges to Lead FAST’s Mission to Build the Future Security Workforce

The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) named Dr. Elli Reges to serve as FAST’s new executive director.
Created in 2020 through a partnership of the Electronic Security Association (ESA), the Security Industry Association (SIA) and PSA, FAST connects aspiring professionals with meaningful careers in the electronic security and life safety industry. As FAST’s executive director, Dr. Reges will lead the foundation’s efforts to expand awareness of career opportunities and strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline through education, outreach and collaboration.
“Our industry has an incredible story to tell, yet too many students and job seekers simply don’t know the opportunities that exist,” Reges said. “Together, we have an opportunity to redefine how people see the security industry — not just as a place to find a job, but as a place to build a meaningful career, solve complex challenges and make a lasting impact. I’m excited to work alongside our partners to build a skilled, diverse workforce that will drive the future of the security industry.”
Reges serves as the director of learning and development for SIA and will assume the additional role of executive director of FAST. In this dual capacity, she will lead FAST’s mission to expand education, strengthen career pathways and attract the next generation of talent to the electronic security and life safety industry. Having led several collaborative programs on behalf of ESA, PSA and SIA, Reges is uniquely positioned to advance FAST’s mission through strong industry partnerships and a shared commitment to workforce development.
With more than a decade of experience in learning strategy, credentialing and organizational development in the security industry, Reges has worked closely with leading security manufacturers, integrators and end users to develop innovative solutions that address the industry’s evolving workforce needs. Prior to joining SIA, she developed training and certification programs for sport and event security professionals working at the National Center for Spectator Sport Safety and Security (NCS4). Reges holds a Ph.D. in human capital development from The University of Southern Mississippi and is a certified credentialing professional (ICE-CCP).
“FAST has built tremendous momentum by bringing our industry together around one of its most important priorities—developing the next generation of security professionals,” said John Nemerofsky, board chair, FAST and chief operating officer, SAGE Integration. “Dr. Reges has been instrumental in advancing workforce development initiatives across the industry, and her expertise, collaborative leadership and strategic vision make her exceptionally well suited to lead FAST into its next phase of growth. We are excited to have her build on this momentum, expand our impact and strengthen the talent pipeline that will shape the future of the electronic security and life safety industry.”
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