July President's Message

Hello everyone! 
 
A Note of Personal Gratitude 
 
This month, I want to take a moment to simply say thank you. 
 
Thank you for choosing a career in the systems integration industry. Whether your focus is fire alarm, security, audio-visual, networking, communications, automation, or any of the technologies that keep buildings safe and connected, your work makes a difference every single day. 
 
What makes this industry special is not the technology, it's the people. It is the technicians who answer the call, the project managers who keep 
 
 
 
everything moving, the administrators who support operations, the sales teams who build relationships, and the leaders who guide their organizations through challenges and opportunities. 
 
Highlights of the Month 
  • Independence Day Celebrations - Fireworks lit up the night sky, and spirits were just as bright! Whether it was backyard barbecues, community gatherings, or simply enjoying the red, white, and blue, July 4th was filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness. 
  • Understanding a New Perspective - In our world where technology evolves faster than ever, we are constantly reminded about the importance of workforce development. Younger professionals are entering the workforce shaped by rapid technological changes, global connectivity, and access to information at their fingertips. They often value: 
    • Purpose over process – they want to know why their work matters. 
    • Flexibility and balance – not just where they work, but how they work. 
    • Continuous learning – their growth mindset is a powerful asset. 
 
I am learning to leverage these opportunities and gain a higher level of understanding in how to better attract hard working young professionals to our team, evolve our thinking and stay relevant in an ever-changing landscape. 
 
It is hard to believe that we are more than halfway through 2026. I also want to express my gratitude for your support as members. By the time you receive this Handshake, you may have about two months to plan on joining us on our September Fall Road Show. I look forward to seeing you in September!
 
Road Show: Please Click Here for the Full Schedule
 
Fall Road Show Social Media Campaign:  
We are excited to offer our members a valuable opportunity to enhance their social media presence and attract top talent to their organizations. During the Fall Road Show, we will record a brief 1–2, minute introductory video featuring participating members and their organizations in each market. 
 
Participation is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email our Executive Director Shannon Few, to be added to the list, and once capacity is reached, additional participants will be placed on a waitlist. 
 
Please note that all participants must sign a media release waiver in advance, authorizing the use of their videos on social media platforms. These videos will be featured as part of our Secure Your Career campaign, highlighting career opportunities with our member companies. As many of our members are actively hiring, this initiative provides an excellent way to connect job seekers with employers across Florida. 
 
Education Updates 
  • Alarm Academy is now offering online courses for License Holder Renewal. Please see below for more details and don't forget to renew your license by August 31st!
  • We are also releasing 2 new classes including Video Surveillance 102 and Notification Devices so be sure to check out our full course catalog!
  • Finally we are always looking to add great instructors to teach directly through IAF and also with the schools we are partnered in particular Palm Beach State College and Florida State College at Jacksonville. If you are interested in learning more please reach out here!
As integrators, we are problem solvers. We connect technologies that protect people, improve communication, enhance productivity, and create safer environments. Hospitals, schools, businesses, government facilities, and places of worship all rely on the work performed by professionals like you. 
 
So, on behalf of the Integration Association of Florida, thank you for your hard work, your dedication to quality, your commitment to safety, and your contributions to our industry. 
 
We are proud to be part of this profession, and we are grateful for each of you who helps make it stronger every day. 
 
Stay safe, stay engaged, and thank you for all that you do. 
 
Farshid Pourgolafshan
IAF President