Scott Harkins: An Ironman of the Security Industry, Leading Resideo’s Charge into the Future

Scott Harkins is the epitome of endurance. As a triathlete, he knows the discipline, resilience, and strategy required to complete a race that combines swimming, biking, and running. It’s a true test of physical and mental strength – much like his nearly three-decade-long career in the security and smart home industry. From his start as a young salesperson to his current role as Vice President of Global Sales, Products & Solutions, at Resideo, Harkins’ journey has been marked by the same drive, persistence, and determination that has kept him going in the triathlon circuit. 

Kevin Stone, Chief Operating Officer of Doyle Security and Chairman of the Electronic Security Association, highlights Harkins’ unwavering dedication: “I appreciate Scott’s support of our industry and his desire to help individuals and companies grow. He’s always been focused on the greater good of the industry and it’s a pleasure and honor to call him a friend.” 

From Sales Rep to Industry Leader 

Scott Harkins’ career began in 1995, when he joined Ademco, a leading security company that was later acquired by Honeywell. In 2018, Honeywell spun off its residential security business, along with other divisions, forming Resideo. “I’ve essentially been with the same company through three different identities,” Harkins notes. “Each stage required me to adapt, learn, and keep pushing forward.” 

Harkins started as a salesperson in Philadelphia for a small segment of Ademco called Apex Security Products, which specialized in cutting-edge home automation solutions long before the term “smart home” became mainstream. His drive and interest in smart home technology caught the attention of industry veterans like John Lorenty and Ben Cornett, who saw potential in his relentless work ethic. “Just like in a triathlon, where every training session counts, every opportunity and interaction in my career built up to something bigger,” Harkins says. 

The Triathlon of Leadership: Strategy, Resilience and Adaptation 

A triathlete’s success relies on mastering three disciplines, each requiring different strategies and skills. Similarly, Scott Harkins has navigated three critical components of his career: innovation, leadership, and mentorship. When he took on the role of general manager of Honeywell’s CCTV business in 2008, Harkins transitioned from a sales-focused mindset to leading a business unit with profit and loss responsibilities. It was a leap akin to diving into open water, with no clear end in sight but a determination to push through. 

“You learn when to push and when to pace yourself,” Harkins says, drawing a parallel between his career and triathlon races. “In business, you can’t sprint the whole time. There are moments when you must step back, evaluate, and strategize.” This approach has been crucial as Harkins moved through various leadership roles, including president of the Americas security business and overseeing Resideo’s Connected Home division. 

Failure, too, has been a teacher. Harkins recalls a recent half Ironman attempt where he fell short during the swim portion. “I failed miserably,” he admits, but rather than discouragement, it reinforced his resilience. “Failure is part of the process. In both races and business, setbacks are inevitable, but it’s about how you get back up.” This tenacity mirrors his journey in the security industry, where he has continuously adapted to changing technologies and market demands. 

A Proponent of Professional Services and Training 

A key theme throughout Harkins’ career is his unwavering support for professional service providers, including those who install and maintain the security, HVAC, and life safety products that help keep homes and families safe and comfortable. “I believe critical home systems should be installed by experts, not DIY,” Harkins explains. His advocacy for professional service providers is rooted in his belief that essential home protections – security, safety, and HVAC systems – deserve professional expertise. 

Harkins believes that the key to maintaining strong relationships with HVAC, plumbing and security professionals lies in engagement, thought leadership and connecting the dots between needs and market opportunities. “We have to be talking to our customers over and over again, bringing them value beyond just selling products,” he says. He emphasizes that the pros are the experts in the home and should be trusted for their feedback on homeowners’ wants and needs. 

Resideo’s efforts extend well beyond product advancements. The company is deeply involved in addressing industry challenges, such as labor shortages and the need for diverse, skilled talent. Through initiatives like Resideo’s Brand Ambassador Program, led by Jason Lutz, Harkins and his team work to attract and train the next generation of security professionals, ensuring that the industry remains vibrant and capable of meeting future demands. And whether you are an independent pro, contractor, distributor or dealer, Resideo Academy supports HVAC, plumbing and security professionals with hands-on training and demonstrations from product and industry experts.  

The Next Leg: Innovation and the Future of Security 

Throughout his career, Scott Harkins has been at the forefront of the smart home revolution, helping to guide Resideo’s transition from traditional security systems to connected, software-driven solutions. Today, Resideo’s product portfolio spans security, HVAC, and life safety products, including the well-known First Alert smoke detectors. Harkins leads a global team responsible for selling these solutions across major markets, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.   

Looking ahead, Harkins is excited about the new technologies that are poised to redefine the security landscape. He is particularly excited about emerging technologies that could reshape how security systems detect issues – technologies like ultra-wideband signaling, Wi-Fi presence detection, and in-home radar systems that move beyond traditional door sensors and motion detectors. 

“There’s a lot of Innovative technology coming that can make security systems smarter, better, and more responsive,” said Harkins. “Resideo is at the forefront of this innovation. It’s in the company’s DNA, going back to its origins.”  

In addition to looking ahead at new innovations, Scott and his sales team are keen to use the voice of customers to enhance current offerings, as well. An example is the recent launch of the First Alert Vista® H series. For nearly twenty years, the Vista portfolio has experienced tremendous popularity and has a strong installed base. To simplify upgrades, the new Vista hybrid series has been updated for seamless smart integration with Resideo’s proven modern installation, maintenance, and technologies for professionals who have long admired the VISTA line for its reliable performance, but wanted an easier, more efficient installation process. Scott’s team was a strong advocate for ensuring its base was being brought into the future. 

A Legacy of Leadership and Persistence  

Throughout his career, Harkins has embodied the spirit required of a trailblazer: relentless, resilient, and always forward moving. His journey from a young salesperson in Philadelphia to a global leader at Resideo is a testament to his determination and vision.   

Harkins’ leadership philosophy is also informed by the mentors who have guided him. He credits industry legends such as John Lorenty, Ben Cornett, and others for helping shape his approach to leadership.  

As Scott Harkins reflects on his career, he remains optimistic about the future of the security industry. “I’d like to leave the industry in a great place for the next generation,” he says. “It’s about people helping people, and I hope my work helps make that possible.” 

For Harkins, the race is far from over. With each new challenge, he remains committed to the next leg of his career – pushing forward, adapting, and leading the industry into the future.