Volunteerism as a Growth Strategy

When Melissa Brinkman, CEO of Custom Alarm, a 27-year veteran of the electronic security and life safety industry, first joined the Association’s Board of Directors, she thought of it as “something extra” to do outside her day-to-day work. Seven years later, she laughs at the thought. 

“I realized pretty quickly that volunteering didn’t take away from my career—it made it,” she says. “I’ve met mentors I wouldn’t have known, shaped industry practices, and even discovered new business opportunities I never expected.” 

Melissa’s story isn’t unique. Across the electronic security and life safety industry, seasoned professionals are finding that volunteerism isn’t just altruistic, it’s strategic. By dedicating time and expertise to boards, committees, councils, and mentorship programs, they’re helping to grow the industry while growing themselves. 

The Power of Giving Back 

Kirk MacDowell, President of MacGuard Security Advisors, a consultant with more than 45 years of industry experience, reflects on his time mentoring young professionals.

“I thought I was helping them,” he says. “But I learned just as much, new perspectives, fresh ideas, and even tech trends I hadn’t considered. Volunteering kept me sharp and connected.” 

These veterans often share three common motivations: 

• Networking that matters – Unlike networking at conferences, volunteer work fosters deeper, long-term relationships. “Some of my closest professional friendships started at a volunteer meeting,” says MacDowell. 

• Shaping the future – Veterans see volunteering as a chance to influence industry standards and practices. Brinkman notes, “It’s empowering to know that my input today could make the industry safer, smarter, and more sustainable tomorrow.” 

• Personal fulfillment – Many describe volunteering as a meaningful way to give back to the profession that supported them. 

Why You Should Step Up Too 

It’s easy for newer professionals to assume volunteering is for seasoned leaders. But engagement at any stage of a career can be transformative. Take April Chastain, VP of Internal Operations & Merger Implementation at Owen Security Solutions who joined the ESX Advisory Board for the first time this year.

“I expected to learn some rules or processes,” she says. “Instead, I gained leadership experience, confidence, and recognition from peers and employers alike. It changed my view of the value volunteering provides to me personally.” 

Volunteering offers benefits that ripple beyond the individual: 

• Professional Development – Skills like leadership, negotiation, and project management grow naturally in volunteer roles. 

• Company Visibility – Employees representing their companies on boards and committees boost their organization’s credibility. 

• Workforce Engagement – Team members who volunteer report higher morale and stronger engagement. 

• Industry Resilience – Every hour contributed strengthens the profession, ensuring a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone. 

Making It Work for You 

Volunteerism doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small: join a committee, mentor a new professional, or contribute expertise to a specific initiative. Over time, the returns compound in ways that are both personal and professional. 

As Brinkman puts it, “You join to give back, but you end up learning, growing, and connecting in ways you could never plan. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your career, company, and in the industry.” 

In today’s competitive landscape, growth isn’t just about revenue or technology, it’s about relationships, skills, and leadership. By volunteering, you don’t just contribute to the industry, you help build it while building yourself. 

If you are ready to experience personal and professional growth by volunteering with  

ESA, go to www.esaweb.org to learn more and apply.