40 under 40: Esteban Pastor, senior product manager, ZKTeco USA

YARMOUTH, Maine—Esteban Pastor, 39, is the senior product manager at ZKTeco USA, a security manufacturer of access control, biometrics, turnstiles, x-ray baggage detection, metal detectors, and more, based out of Alpharetta, Ga. Find out what inspired him to pursue a career in the security industry, what being a "40 under 40" winner means to him, what appeals to him about the security industry, and more. 

SSN: Describe your roles, duties, and tenure at your current job. 

PASTOR: As the senior product manager, I focus mostly on our access control division, but this also includes any devices, software, or solutions that they can be applied to. I oversee R&D teams throughout the globe to develop and implement new solutions for the security industry. I am also responsible for working with and finding integration partners to find new verticals of where security can be enhanced. I started with ZKTeco USA seven years ago and it's been one of the best learning and growth experiences of my life.

SSN: What inspired you to pursue a career in the security industry?

PASTOR: I was always interested in technology, especially computers. I grew up in the age where computers were starting to become more accessible to the masses and fell in love with them. I knew immediately I wanted to do something involving any type of technology. Initially I wanted to be a musician, but that doesn't always pan out, so it was time to get a real job! At first working with ZKTeco was just a job, but I immediately fell in love with the security industry, and I dove head-first into it and have never looked back! Of course, I wouldn't be at this stage without the amazing mentors and leaders that we have in our company. They are a huge part of why I love this job so much.

SSN: What does being named a winner of SSN's 40 under 40 mean to you?

PASTOR: It means a lot more to me than most people would think. It's an honor, it's being recognized, it's an achievement. But most of all its validation. Self-validation that I've done something or have been a part of something that has been worth all the long hours and dedication.

SSN: As a young leader, what appeals to you about the security industry?

PASTOR: For me, the most appealing part is always going to be the technology and where it's headed. The last few years we've seen the security industry grow into so much more than just who is allowed to enter a door. Now it's standard to have video surveillance, visitor management and the additional options brought on by the Proptech boom. Even the ways we enter doors and technology used to do so has gone from basic cards/pins to biometrics, Bluetooth, NFC. I'm excited to see and be a part of what is next!

SSN: With the hiring, recruitment and retention challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, how can the security industry engage young talent?

PASTOR: There are a lot of initiatives currently in place, especially by some of the industry associations. There is FAST which has really taken a huge step over the last year. SIA has the RISE community which I belong to, and I am also a member of its steering committee. Our main focus is to do just that. Whether we are hosting virtual & in-person networking events, offering educational courses, tips & tricks for navigating the security industry, and most importantly support. Young talent needs to be able to see that there is opportunity in the industry and to see younger professionals achieving success so they can be excited about their future.