Women in Security: Tristin Vaccaro, Community Engagement Coordinator, Mission 500

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Tristin Vaccaro has only been in the security industry for a few years, but she’s already made an indelible impact on the sector. In addition to her growing LinkedIn following, she joined Mission 500, the industry’s widest-ranging charity organization as community engagement coordinator last year.

Here’s Tristin Vaccaro’s story in her own words as we continue to celebrate International Women’s History Month.

Security Sales & Integration: How did you get into the security industry?

Tristin Vaccaro: I entered the security industry in 2021 after four years in inside sales in the tradeshow industry. A former colleague had joined an access control company and encouraged me to apply for a sales account executive role. It felt like the right time to make a change, so I took the leap.

SSI: Have you encountered any difficulties or obstacles in your security industry career?

Vaccaro: Of course! Who hasn’t? I think my biggest struggle was finding the right fit for me. There were so many “things” I was looking for in a job. I wanted work life balance, a job I was passionate about, the ability to grow, and a company culture that aligned with my values. It took me a long time to figure out that, if such a role as that didn’t exist already within the industry, I would have to make my own.

I fully understand that to be able to say and do that is a privilege, but I think a lot of professionals in this industry face similar challenges. I also believe there’s potential for the industry to evolve in a way that creates more of these fulfilling, flexible roles for others as well.

SSI: Whom would you point to as the most influential and helpful mentors in your career? What did they do to help you?

Vaccaro: I mean it when I say this: Janet Fenner changed my life. I was fortunate to be matched with her through the Security Industry Association RISE TIME mentor program. From our first call, she helped me explore my interests, uncover my passion for storytelling and ultimately encouraged me to pursue a career in content writing.

She also brought me to my first ISC West where she introduced me to industry leaders who became my first clients. She not only opened doors for me, but she brought me to the table. I am so incredibly grateful for her guidance and belief in me, as without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

SSI: What is your proudest career accomplishment?

Vaccaro: Speaking at my first industry conference, AcceleRISE. As someone who had a terrible fear of public speaking, I never thought I had the confidence to stand in front of a room full of my peers and share my thoughts. Would what I said add value? Would people care? Those doubts ran through my mind in the weeks leading up to the event. Luckily, I had people who encouraged me (Katie Greatti, Lee Oughton, and many more) through it all.

I spoke on a panel on the topic of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, a topic I’m deeply passionate about. While I was nervous, all the fears I had initially felt began to fade away as I started talking. Instead of focusing on my nerves, I focused on the importance of the conversation.

Having people come up to me after and tell me that what I said resonated with them is one of the most rewarding moments of my career. That experience not only helped me overcome my fear of public speaking but also reinforced my commitment to advocating for DE&I in all aspects of my career.

SSI: What do you love most about working in the security industry?

Vaccaro: I really love the community I’ve found here. So many people who I’ve met at conferences, through RISE, and as clients have become more than just colleagues – they’ve become mentors, sources of inspiration, and even close friends.

As someone who works from home as a team of one, this community is incredibly valuable to me. The security industry is full of passionate, driven individuals who genuinely care about making a difference. I’m not only happy to be one of them, but I’m also proud to know them.

SSI: How can the security industry become even better?

Vaccaro: I think by embracing DE&I and enacting initiatives that promote a more inclusive and diverse workforce. The security industry, like so many others, can benefit from a wider range of perspectives and experiences. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, leadership development for underrepresented groups, and making space for diverse voices at industry events can make a huge difference.

But it doesn’t have to be a big thing either. Being open to listening and learning from others is a simple way to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas. To me, this is how the security industry stays relevant, innovative, and competitive in today’s world.