By: Tanner Bengtzen, ProdataKey
I am in this industry by accident. It just so happens to be among the best accidents to have ever happened to me.
I moved back to Utah at the start of 2020. As you can imagine, it was difficult to find a decent job during the height of Covid. As my savings began to deplete along with my hopes for another role in tech sales, I knew it was time to open my mind to other opportunities. I had to do whatever it took to avoid bringing on any debt and slowing down my career momentum.
It was at this point that I was introduced to ProdataKey, a cloud-based access control manufacturer. There had been an opening in their warehouse. Although I had spent the previous year dressed in a polo, belt, and slacks selling office tech, I was in no position to be picky with my next career move. Before long, I was assembling control panels, programming wireless chips, and shipping truckloads of equipment across the country for PDK.
Although it was a role that I never foresaw in my career path, I look back at this time and can do nothing but smile with joy. I joined a team that had carefully developed a dichotomous culture of fun and work ethic. I will forever cherish my time with the team in the warehouse who now make up much of PDK’s leadership today.
Nearly a year later, I received a call from our tech support manager with an opportunity to join his team. This role provided me with respect and understanding for the industry. I learned about the ever-evolving technology and the various needs within the realm of physical security.
After many months in this role, I was approached by Dallan Labrum, the EVP of Sales for ProdataKey. Without any hesitation he said, “You know you’re supposed to be in sales, right?” He knew it, and I knew it. It was time to get back into a front-facing role.
After more than five years with PDK, I now manage our inside sales team, distribution channel, and integration partnerships as the Director of Strategic Partnerships. What seemed like an early sacrifice has turned into my ideal career. I get to do what I do best every single day.
That being said, none of this would be possible had I not accidentally joined an industry with so much potential for growth.
A Growing Demand For Talent
It’s no secret that the security industry is in a constant state of workforce demand. As technology evolves, so do the threats we face, and that means our need for skilled individuals never slows down.
Security no longer is only about guards, doors, or cameras. It’s about cloud-based access control, mobile credentials, IoT, artificial intelligence, high-tech cameras, and the blending of physical and digital security.
That evolution has created one of the most compelling opportunities for people currently entering the workforce. Unlike some industries that are oversaturated, security is hungry for fresh ideas and young professionals willing to learn. The demand is high, the field is broad, and the potential to grow is significant. For those willing to put in the effort, doors open quickly.
Why The Security Industry Appeals To Young Professionals
Beyond the growth potential, there are deeper reasons why this industry is such a rewarding place for young professionals.
- Purpose-driven work. At its core, security is about protecting people, places, and assets. It’s easy to stay motivated when you know your efforts help keep communities safe.
- Longevity and stability. No matter how the world changes, security will always be essential. That stability provides a strong foundation for a career, while still offering room for innovation.
- Global scale. Security isn’t bound by borders. With the right skills, opportunities open up internationally, giving professionals a chance to expand their careers across markets and cultures.
- Constant innovation. Far from being “old-fashioned,” the industry is more exciting now than ever. The convergence of physical and digital security means we’re solving problems no one even imagined a decade ago.
Although the technology which our industry brings to the marketplace is rapidly changing, it seems that certain processes and procedures are not. It’s no secret that the front-facing roles of the industry have been fairly similar for the last decade.
Regardless of the industry event, you may find the same sales representatives and company leaders in attendance. The only real difference is the logo being represented on their polo each time you see them.
Companies tend to hire their representatives based on the connections they have created in the industry, not based on performance or ability. Don’t get me wrong, I agree with this philosophy to an extent. It can be an easy shortcut to win business based on existing relationships. That being said, I firmly believe that the right hire can create relationships quicker than you might expect.
That’s where the next generation of industry professionals come to play. The various manufacturers, distributors, rep firms, and installers are blindly desperate for new perspectives and uncapped energy. This industry can greatly benefit from the next wave of young people entering the workforce with tenacity and competitive grit.
It’s a common belief that the younger generation is lazy and entitled. But consider this: were you not perceived the same by the generation before you? I would argue that with modern technology, the next generation has access to more mentors, role models, and examples of real-world success than ever before. Because of this, they are primed and hungry.
I am lucky to see examples of this each and every day. Much of the rapid success at PDK has been due to the innovative contributions of Millennials and Gen Z.
For young professionals who want to grow fast, make an impact, and be part of something bigger, it’s hard to find a better fast-track to success than the security industry.
Tanner Bengtzen is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for ProdataKey (PDK). An honoree of the 2024 SIA 25 On the Rise and Utah Business 20 in their 20s, Tanner spends much of his free time mentoring other young professionals through his personal and company sanctioned blogs. Throughout the years, he has worked in several capacities at PDK while also completing his MBA.
How Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping the Physical Security Industry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is the security industry a good career path for young professionals?
Because it combines purpose, innovation, and stability—offering rapid career growth in an essential, tech-driven field.
Q2: Do I need a background in technology to work in physical security?
No. While technical knowledge helps, many roles—sales, operations, marketing, and support—offer opportunities for diverse skill sets.
Q3: How can young professionals enter the industry?
Start by joining an entry-level role, like customer support, installation, or inside sales, and look for mentorship opportunities within your company.
Q4: What’s the biggest advantage of joining now?
The industry is evolving rapidly with AI, cloud, and mobile integration—meaning young professionals who start now will shape the future of security.
Source: snnonline.com
https://security.world/why-the-security-industry-is-appealing-to-young-professionals/