Charles M. Johnson of NGA Security Advisors will help lead SIA’s community and accelerator program for security innovators.
The Security Industry Association (SIA) has appointed Charles McGilvary Johnson as co-chair of its StartUps in Security program, a community and accelerator initiative focused on advancing innovation across the security technology landscape.
Johnson, founder and CEO of NGA Security Advisors, brings over 30 years of experience in the electronic security industry and will help guide the program alongside co-chair Lee Odess.
Driving Innovation In Security Startups
SIA’s StartUps in Security program is designed to support emerging companies by connecting them with industry leaders, investors and growth opportunities. Guided by SIA’s Executive Advisory Board, the initiative focuses on fostering innovation across areas such as access control, video surveillance, artificial intelligence, biometrics and IoT.
Johnson has been actively involved in the community since its inception. He previously chaired the Research Committee, where he led the launch of the Investor Series—an initiative that connects startups with insights from investors. He has also contributed to the Strategy Review program at ISC East, offering early-stage companies direct feedback on business strategies.
Leadership Perspective
“I am very humbled and honored by the opportunity to expand my involvement and work with SIA, my co-chair Lee Odess and the rest of our community to provide the resources and support needed by this very important segment of our industry,” said Johnson.
“I am very passionate about the StartUps in Security community and what we have been able to accomplish in the last 12 months.”
He also emphasized the importance of startups in driving meaningful innovation within the industry, noting that many breakthrough ideas and problem-solving approaches are emerging from these organizations.
Strengthening The Startup Ecosystem
The StartUps in Security program supports companies in early and growth stages, particularly those focused on developing innovative solutions and entering large or emerging markets. The initiative offers:
Startup-focused events at ISC West and ISC East
A peer-to-peer mentoring network through the Mastermind program
Investor engagement via the Investor Series
Strategic guidance and networking opportunities
“SIA is proud to welcome Charles M. Johnson as the new co-chair of the StartUps in Security community,” said Don Erickson, CEO of SIA.
“His knowledge will be immensely beneficial to this community as he partners with co-chair Lee Odess to build on its success going forward.”
The Security Industry Association is a leading trade organization representing over 1,700 global security solution providers. SIA advocates for industry policies, develops standards, promotes education and training and creates networking opportunities through major events such as ISC West, ISC East and Securing New Ground.
1. What Is SIA StartUps In Security? It is a community and accelerator program that supports startup and scale-up companies in the security industry through mentorship, networking and investment opportunities.
2. Who Is Charles McGilvary Johnson? He is the founder and CEO of NGA Security Advisors and a seasoned security professional with over 30 years of experience.
3. What Will Johnson Do As Co-Chair? He will help guide the program’s strategy, support startup growth and strengthen connections between innovators, investors and industry leaders.
4. What Types Of Companies Benefit From This Program? Early-stage startups, innovation-driven businesses and companies targeting high-growth markets within the security sector.
5. What Activities Does The Program Offer? It includes events, mentoring programs, investor engagement initiatives and strategic business reviews.
