Five Questions: Sean Githens

Sean Githens, who was recently appointed to his new role of VP and COO at Redwire, is a two-time National Achievement recipient with more than 15 years of industry experience. Since his start with Redwire in 2001, he has served in numerous operational roles, including most recently as vice president, customer services. Prior to that, he was director of client services where he managed multiple central stations. Githens is a graduate of Florida State University and earned an MBA from Phoenix University.

Are you married? Kids?

I have been married for 11 years, and have two elementary aged children, a daughter and a son.

Where are you from originally? How does that compare to other places you have lived?

I am from Florida, just north of Tampa, and went to college in Tallahassee. I moved out to California for a career opportunity and then made my way back to Tallahassee, which has been good. Each city has its own culture and perks. California was fun and there is always something to do in a large city, where as in Tallahassee we have several universities here and it is kind of a younger population.

How did you first get started in the security industry?

I took a position as a central station operator when I was an undergrad, and fell in love with the business, worked my way up and excelled at it.

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

I am always trying to go fishing. If the weather and seas are right, I am most likely out with my family fishing. I also love watching sports. In addition to watching professional and collegiate sports, I like to watch my children, as well as my nieces and nephews, play in their chosen sports.

Have you read any good books lately?

I just finished Tony Dungy's book called The Mentor Leader, which goes over his leadership philosophy—mainly how it has helped him be a top performer in his career and life. He goes over how to build people and how to build teams to perform at a high level.