New NTS Class on Security Networking Debuts in Louisiana

A new course from the National Training School (NTS) that provides technicians, salespeople and project managers with the experience needed to utilize networked devices in their installations debuted in Louisiana with great success.

Entitled Security Networking Institute, the course is a change of direction and a beta test because this time, NTS partnered with third party course developers. In the past, NTS has delivered training specifically developed by NBFAA staff and volunteers.

"This is also the first new NTS product rolled out in the last couple of years," said NBFAA Education & Standards Director, Dale Eller. "Networking is an extremely cutting edge topic given all of the changes and advances manufacturers are introducing with IT based security equipment. We're seeing the proliferation of Internet based equipment showing up in every aspect of our lives so it's natural to assume that the electronic life safety, security, and systems industry will have to adapt to it."

The Security Networking Institute presented students with experience using live, networked devices, connections, cables and other accessories. Students gained complete and practical training in all aspects of network security devices including network cameras, access control, video servers, fiber optic networking and Wi-Fi communications.

"The training method was excellent," said Kris Curtis, an installation technician for
Sonitrol of New Orleans, Inc. "When a process was discussed, the instructor had equipment set up to immediately demonstrate his point. It was very easy to understand the material this way."

More than 30 students from twenty companies attended the course, held September 23 and 24, 2004 in Metairie, La. and sponsored by the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association's National Training School along with the Louisiana Burglar & Fire Alarm Association. David Engebretson of Slayton Solutions Ltd., a 28-year industry professional, college instructor, author and columnist provided and taught the course.

"The class was exactly what I had hoped it would be - very informative and targeted to my needs," added Randy Smith, an account manager for Centurytel Security Systems. "These type classes help us keep up with technology and help us stay ahead of the competition."

The National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association founded the National Training School in 1985 to meet the ever-increasing need for standardized training within the electronic life safety, security and systems industry.

NTS plans at least 10 more of these classes by the end of 2005. Interested states should contact NTS at 866-636-1687 or nts@alarm.org.

The National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) is the nation's oldest and largest association dedicated to representing, promoting, and supporting the electronic life safety, security, and systems industry. Member companies specialize in a wide spectrum of services to commercial and residential consumers, including security and fire alarms, monitoring, CCTV, and access control. Working with a federation of state associations, NBFAA provides government advocacy and delivers timely information, professional development tools, products and services to its members. The NBFAA may be reached at 301-585-1855 or on the web at www.alarm.org.

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