The Gazette Volume 2.13 Issue April 2025 |
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Brandon Shepard GELSSA President |
| Dear GELSSA Members and Friends,
Spring is in full swing, and so is GELSSA! I’ve been truly energized by the momentum we’ve built so far this year—from our packed Q1 Meeting & Expo to powerful conversations around growing our association and elevating the industry. It’s been incredible to witness our members showing up, getting involved, and shaping what’s next for GELSSA. Speaking of getting involved, I want to personally invite you to join us for one of our favorite annual traditions—the GELSSA Golf Tournament on Friday, May 2nd at Fairways of Canton. This event is always a great time with industry friends and colleagues, and it’s also a key fundraiser that helps us continue the work we’re doing for you. |
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Whether you’re there for the golf, the networking, or just the sunshine and camaraderie, you won’t want to miss it. Bring your team, invite a client, or come solo—we promise you’ll leave glad you came.
Then, mark your calendars for Tuesday, May 7th, when we’re hosting a Virtual Membership Meeting that you won’t want to miss. We’ll be discussing the exciting rebranding of GELSSA and sharing how this fresh new identity reflects the direction we’re headed as a progressive, forward-thinking association. This is your chance to be part of something big and have your voice heard as we move into this next chapter together.
We’ve got momentum—and it’s thanks to all of you. Let’s keep it going strong. See you on the course and online!
Sincerely, Brandon Shepard GELSSA President |
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We Are Planning Ahead! Register Now for Our May Events! |
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⛳ Get Ready to Tee Off at One of North Georgia’s Best — Fairways of Canton!
Join us Friday, May 2nd for the GELSSA Golf Tournament at the beautiful Fairways of Canton Golf Club in Canton, GA! This hidden gem is known for its breathtaking views, dramatic elevation changes, and a course layout that’s both fun and challenging for players of all levels. Whether you're playing to win or just enjoying a day on the green with industry friends, Fairways of Canton offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day of golf, networking, and support for GELSSA’s mission. ⏰ Don’t wait — This is your last chance to Register and experience why this course is one of Georgia’s finest! We are turning in our foursomes to the course tomorrow! Please be sure to register so your name will be on the list! |
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Q1 Meeting & Expo Recap!!
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Investing in Your Team Is Always the Right Call — Even When It's Not Required! |
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The value of a well-trained team is priceless! Whether you're navigating new technologies, staying ahead of code changes, or simply striving to provide the best service to your customers, education is the foundation that sets your business apart.
At GELSSA, we firmly believe that training shouldn't be viewed only as a checkbox for licensure or compliance. The companies that go beyond the minimum—those that invest in their people even when it’s not mandated—are the ones that build stronger teams, retain top talent, and earn long-term customer trust. |
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That’s why we’ve expanded our commitment to professional development with a robust course catalog, now available on our website at www.gelssa.org. These courses are designed specifically for alarm and low-voltage professionals and cover a wide range of topics, including: - Networking 101
- Security SalesPro Bundle
- The Connected World
- Project Management for Residential Installations
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Fire 101
- Battery & Circuit Calculations
- Linear Heat
- Fundamentals for Electronic Systems Technicians
These self-paced, online courses make it easy for your team to build skills anytime, anywhere—no travel, no missed job time, and no excuses. Whether you're onboarding new techs or sharpening the expertise of your seasoned team members, these classes are right at your fingertips and incredibly affordable. Education is more than a cost—it’s an investment in the quality, safety, and reputation of your business. When you empower your technicians with knowledge, you're also showing them that you believe in their growth—and that kind of leadership pays off in loyalty, performance, and customer satisfaction. Take a look at our course offerings today and find the right fit for your team! Together, let’s raise the bar for our industry—one well-trained team member at a time. Keep Learning!
Shannon Few
GELSSA Executive Director |
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Research Insights from Parks Associates: Generative AI is Redefining the Consumer Technology Landscape |
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From Parks Associates: "Since the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in late 2023, market momentum around AI applications has intensified, with significant activity across both startup ecosystems and major technology platforms. The first half of 2024 alone saw 255 venture deals totaling $12.3 billion in generative AI startups, reflecting a notable increase over the same period in 2023. This investment surge is mirrored by strategic product developments across leading tech companies. Each major player—Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Apple—has launched or expanded generative AI offerings targeted at consumer and enterprise audiences. Amazon introduced Amazon Q, a business-focused generative AI assistant, and continues investment through AWS, committing $230 million to support startup innovation in this space.
Google rebranded its AI assistant Bard to Gemini, integrating it across Android, Chrome, Photos, and Workspace. A consumer education initiative, including advertising during the 2024 Olympics, aims to drive awareness and normalization of AI features.
Microsoft, through its investment in OpenAI, launched Copilot in early 2023 and now offers Copilot Pro, a subscription-based productivity assistant for $20/month, targeting professional users.
Apple announced Apple Intelligence in mid-2024, entering the generative AI space with a focus on personalization and privacy. The system emphasizes secure integration with user data, in line with Apple’s broader brand positioning.
These efforts signal a shift: generative AI is moving from enterprise applications to the core of consumer-facing platforms, prompting widespread reassessment of product development and engagement strategies across the connected home and digital lifestyle ecosystem." |
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Thank You to Our Premier Partners!! |
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Platinum Premier Partners |
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Following GELSSA on social media is the best way to stay updated with the latest industry news, event announcements, and member highlights. Our social media platforms provide a space for real-time interaction, valuable insights, and networking opportunities with fellow professionals in the electronic life safety and systems industry. Don’t miss out on exclusive content, expert tips, and the chance to engage with the vibrant GELSSA community. Join us today and be part of the conversation driving our industry forward! |
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