AUSTIN, Texas — Maureen Carlson isn’t a rarity when it comes to her security industry path. She didn’t exactly plan for it to happen.
But Carlson certainly stands out in the security industry for her career trajectory, which includes her current triple role as co-founder, president and vice president of growth of System Surveyor.
Here’s more from Carlson, in her own words, as our celebration of International Women’s History Month stretches into April.
Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?
Maureen Carlson: Like many professionals in this industry, it happened as a bit of a surprise. Nearly 10 years ago now, I was working part-time with a security manufacturer when Chris Hugman, our founder and CEO, contacted me about System Surveyor. The timing seemed meant to be.
I quickly realized there was tremendous opportunity to use technology to improve security and safety solutions. What began as a coincidence developed into a passion for transforming how the industry approaches system design and implementation.
SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?
Carlson: The biggest challenge was coming up to speed and respecting just how much there is to learn to be credible and helpful in this specialized field. The security industry has deep technical knowledge and established relationships that take time to build.
Thankfully, most professionals have been incredibly generous with their expertise as long as they see a genuine commitment to learning and adding value. This willingness to mentor newcomers and more women is one of the industry’s greatest strengths and opportunities.
SSI: Whom would you point to as the most influential and helpful mentors in your career? What did they do to help you?
Carlson: First and foremost, the mentorship from my business partner, Chris Hugman, has been invaluable. He truly understands the value of a great product and staying focused on what matters. Chris uniquely values user community, product marketing, digital marketing, and sales as integral parts of success, and he trusts me and the process even when results aren’t immediate.
Beyond Chris, several of our customers and partners have become both friends and amazing professional connections. They’ve patiently answered my questions (even the seemingly basic ones), provided honest feedback, and have become tremendous advocates for both our company and for me professionally. These relationships have been foundational to our growth and my personal development.
There are several other mentors in the Austin area who have taken me under their wings over the years and have guided me. I’m grateful to them and hope to pay it forward.
SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?
Carlson: Definitely what we’ve built at System Surveyor—not only building a great product but also a company rooted in important core values. While the technology itself solves real problems, I’m most proud of the culture and team we’ve assembled. Everyone contributes their unique talents toward our shared mission.
The collaborative spirit and dedication to excellence make coming to work energizing every day. It’s very much a team effort, and working alongside these exceptional colleagues represents the proudest chapter of my career.
SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?
Carlson: I love the authentic way people work together to solve difficult problems. While there’s competition, of course, the industry largely operates with a growth mindset. Security professionals understand we’re ultimately working toward the common goal of creating safer environments.
There’s a genuine sense of purpose that unites the industry, and that mission-driven approach makes the work deeply satisfying.
SSI: How can the security industry become even better?
Carlson: By continuing to collaborate across companies and disciplines while embracing new technologies—all while maintaining the human relationship aspect that makes this industry special. The security challenges we face are becoming increasingly complex, requiring both innovative technical solutions and strong interpersonal connections.
Finding that balance between technological advancement and relationship-building will be key to the industry’s future success. I believe companies that can leverage both elements will lead the way forward.
Click here to check out our entire Women in Security Q&A series!
