'20 under 40' 2013 - Ronda Meyer

Ronda Meyer, 37
Vice president/controller, Per Mar Security
Davenport, Iowa

How did you get into the security industry?

I had been in public accounting for six and a half years and was looking to get out of public and into private. At the time, a few people let me know about a controller position at Per Mar. I applied, came in [and] was intrigued by the services and the fact that it was a family-owned company. I realized soon after starting that there's a lot to be learned in an industry like this, and I learned more and more as I got involved.

Who or what in the industry has inspired you most in your security career?

I spend the majority of my time with three individuals who inspire me and give me the benefit of over 120 years of combined experience: Mike Duffy, our president; Dean Guyette, our COO; and Barb Goettig, our accounting manager. The experience they've shared with me has been phenomenal. One of the great things about this industry is the relationships I've made through Security Networks of America, a best-practices and purchasing power organization. I gain inspiration from [those] relationships. � The success stories I've heard during the roundtables I attend for the organization have made a positive impact on our company and on my career.

What can be done to boost the ranks of young people in the industry?

I think a big area of focus would be getting smart and influential people involved with opening doors to young people. Again, Security Networks of America has been a great example of that. ... With the new technology that's coming out, we'll have younger salespeople that will focus more on IT and newer technologies. With new technology comes new interest, and it's very likely that aspect in particular will bring a lot of new and interesting young people into the industry.