Emerging Leaders Under 40: Deanna VanHout, senior program manager, QCIC

YARMOUTH, Maine—Deanna VanHout, 39, is the senior program manager for QCIC, based out of Minneapolis. Find out what her roles and responsibilities are, what being an Emerging Leader Under 40 means to her, what attracts her to the security industry as a young leader, and more. 

SSN: In 100 words or less, summarize your current role, outlining responsibilities and length of service.

VANHOUT: With over 17 years of professional experience in the field of sales and business development, including a decade dedicated to the low voltage and physical security sector, I am a dedicated, collaborative, and enthusiastic team player. While I initially excelled in roles as a project manager and coordinator, my focus later shifted toward cultivating mutually advantageous relationships with clients and subcontractors.

My core competencies revolve around team building, leadership, ensuring optimal client satisfaction, and overseeing information coordination and management. As a leader, my motivation stems from my commitment to enhancing client experiences with our services and streamlining internal and external communication and processes. I spearheaded our Partner Program while at Paladin Technologies, ensuring that our information and services remain easily accessible, well-organized, and precise. Colleagues consistently describe me as someone who takes immense pride in consistently delivering on commitments, readily offering assistance to others, and consistently striving beyond the minimum requirements.

SSN: In 100 words or less, share what attracts you to the security industry as a young leader.

VANHOUT: I'm drawn to the security industry as a young leader because it's all about people. It's a place where I can help individuals grow and thrive. This field is always changing, and it encourages teamwork and innovation, which is perfect for developing talent and making sure everyone stays safe and secure. I'm excited to be part of this industry, helping both individuals and the industry itself grow together.

SSN: In 100 words or less, describe the significance of being recognized as an SSN Emerging Leader Under 40 winner.

VANHOUT: Being named an SSN Emerging Leader Under 40 winner is a significant achievement, especially as a woman leader in the security industry. It not only recognizes my contributions but also underscores the importance of diversity in leadership. This recognition amplifies my impact, making it easier to inspire others, particularly women, and contribute to industry growth. It's a testament to my commitment to people's safety and development while emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives and fresh ideas. This award serves as motivation to continue making a positive difference and breaking down barriers in the security field.