NEWS/BLOGS
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BLOG: April 2024
Transforming Connections: Fostering Lifelong Relationships at the Yankee Security Convention
This month, we shift our focus to the power of legacy events like the Yankee Security Convention to create, cultivate, nurture, and maintain industry and client relationships that endure beyond the showroom floor. Read on to see how you can leverage the Yankee Security Convention to create new opportunities, strengthen existing connections, and continue to promote your brand as a market leader.
Exhibiting at the Yankee Security Convention can help you elevate your business and pave the way for lifelong client relationships. In this blog we’ll explore three important ways in which exhibiting at this event can take you far beyond the transactional nature of a trade show and deeper into the minds and hearts of your clients.
BLOG: March 2024
8 Compelling Reasons to Exhibit at the Yankee Security Convention in October 2024
Get ready to elevate your business game at the upcoming Yankee Security Convention by leveraging this networking opportunity and exhibiting at this year’s show.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into why exhibiting at this event offers an advantage for maximizing your business success and helping to elevate the locksmith and security industry as a whole. Read on.
A Pillar of Community & Devotion: A tribute to the life and legacy of Elizabeth A. ‘Betty’ Alessandrini
The Yankee Security Convention is marking the passing of long-term Director Betty Alessandrini. Betty passed away March 5th in Medford, Massachusetts. Read on.
BLOG: February 2024
Celebrating Our Partners: Why We Love Our Yankee Security Convention Sponsors
As the excitement builds for this year’s Yankee Security Convention, it’s essential to take a moment to appreciate the incredible support we receive from our exhibitors and sponsors. Behind every successful event, there are dedicated organizations who contribute not only financially but also with their expertise, time, products, and services.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into why sponsors are integral to the success of events like ours and express our gratitude to our esteemed sponsors from last year and invite you to consider sponsoring our 44th annual event. Read on.
BLOG: January 2024
The Future of Locksmithing: Trends & Technology to Watch
The locksmithing industry is undergoing significant change, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. As we look ahead to 2024 and beyond, there are several key trends that will continue to have an impact on the industry and its future. Let’s delve into the top four challenges and changes facing the locksmith industry. Read on!
BLOG: December 2023
Engaging Community: The Heart of Yankee Security Convention
Community engagement and volunteer work are at the cornerstones of a vibrant society. At Yankee Security Convention, we hold these values close to our hearts, understanding the profound impact they have on both individuals and the locksmithing community.
Since our inception in 1978, we have been driven by the belief that giving back and actively participating in charitable endeavors can transform lives and elevate our industry. Read on to learn how you can make a difference!
BLOG: November 2023
Maximizing Your Post Yankee Security Convention Experience: A Guide to Follow-Up Success
The Yankee Security Convention in October was undoubtedly an incredible experience for so many that attended. Filled with educational classes, networking opportunities, insightful seminars, the Demo Zone, and the chance to explore the latest security innovations, the show always does wonders to promote the locksmith and security industry and we’re always thankful for the people that support the show.
There is so much prep that goes into the show, and energy at the show, but did you know that your post-show follow up is just as important. Without it, some of the leads, connections, and reconnections you made at the show could slip away. To help you make the most of your post-convention experience, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of what to do after the convention. Read on!
For the full blog click here.
BLOG: October 2023
Leveraging Your Yankee Experience: An Attendees Guide to Maximizing Show Value
Are you planning to attend the Yankee Security Convention this year? If so, you’re in for an incredible experience filled with cutting-edge security products, insightful classes, and valuable networking opportunities. To make the most out of your time at the convention, it’s essential to plan ahead and have a strategy in place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to maximize your Yankee Security Convention experience and ensure you get the most value out of the event. Read on!
For the full blog click here.
BLOG: September 2023
The Power of Promotion: How Can Exhibitors Attract Attendees Pre-Show?
At the Yankee Security Convention we believe in the immense potential of collaboration. We know that our exhibitors are a vital part of our success, and we want to partner with you to make our event even more extraordinary. By promoting the Yankee Security Convention to your customers, you not only contribute to the success of the event but also strengthen your brand and engage with your audience in new and exciting ways.
In this blog post we’ll explore how you can enhance your experience as an exhibitor while helping to spread the word about the upcoming Yankee Security Convention. We hope this provides you with strategies and tactics to make this a show to remember for you and your customers. Read on!
For the full blog click here.
Top Notch Distributors Joins Yankee Security Convention as a Diamond Sponsor for 2023 Show
September 19th, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is excited to announce that Top Notch Distributors has joined the show as a Diamond Sponsor for their 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
Family owned and operated since 1975, Top Notch Distributors is a leading wholesale provider of architectural door hardware to dealers throughout the United States. TND is a proud supporter of the Yankee Security Convention and its mission to enhance the lives and secure the future of those in the locksmith industry.
Top Notch Distributors offers a wide selection of Residential, Commercial and Electronic Access Control products, parts, and accessories. Representing more than 100 manufacturers and stocking more than half a million products in their six warehouses located strategically across the country, Top Notch Distributors has the products you need in stock and ready to ship the same day.
For the full press release click here.
YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION INTRODUCES FOUR NEW EDUCATIONAL TRACKS FOR
INDUSTRY 2023 SHOW
Students attending Yankee Security Convention Class
September 6, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is proud to announce four new educational tracks as part of the 2023 Yankee Security Convention event.
Targeting attendees looking for industry training in Basic & Mechanical Locksmithing, Access Control, Automotive and Safes, the four new tracks will have dedicated courses so that students can train in a specific area. Courses range from providing the fundamentals of locksmithing to developing specific expertise in a particular manufactured product. The curriculum runs for three full days, and two evenings plus a special Saturday morning panel discussion sponsored by Allegion, and led by industry guru, Lori Green of “I Dig Hardware.”
Students are encouraged to choose the courses that will best expand their knowledge and expertise. A chart explaining the Educational Tracks is available on the Yankee website and by clicking the link here. A full list of courses and instructors is also available in the Show Brochure. Registration officially opened August 1, 2023, and interested attendees are encouraged to sign up as early as possible so as not to be shut out of the most popular classes. Trade show registration is free if you register before October 7, 2023, after which it is $15 per person.
For more on these courses and to register for the show, click here, or visit www.yankeesecurity.org or by contacting info@yankeesecurity.org.
For a copy of the full press release, click here.
YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION ELEVATES EXHIBITOR OPPORTUNITIES AND INTRODUCES AN INNOVATIVE DEMO ZONE FOR THE 2023 SHOW.
The trade show floor buzzes with activity.
September 5, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is proud to unveil an exciting addition for the upcoming 2023 Show – the DEMO ZONE.
As the convention continues to evolve and deliver exceptional value, the DEMO ZONE marks a significant leap forward in enhancing exhibitor engagement and attendee
experiences. This dynamic new offering invites exhibitors to take center stage and captivate attendees with immersive 20-30 minute informational and/or demonstration sessions that showcase new products, tools, services, solutions and software. By integrating these interactive sessions into the heart of the convention floor, attendees can seamlessly transition from exploring innovative products and services to experiencing them firsthand.
At the DEMO ZONE, exhibitors are presented with a host of exceptional opportunities:
Yankee Security Convention looks forward to welcoming exhibitors and attendees alike to experience the groundbreaking DEMO ZONE, enriching the event’s atmosphere and delivering unmatched value to all participants. Show exhibit dates are Saturday and Sunday, October 28-29, 2023.
Trade show registration is free if you register before October 7, 2023, after which it is $15 per person. Please visit www.yankeesecurity.org to register for classes and the trade show. Note that classes sell out early so act now to secure your spot.
For more information contact info@yankeesecurity.org. For the full press release, click here
PRESS RELEASE
YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION OFFICIALLY OPENS REGISTRATION TO INDUSTRY ATTENDEES FOR OCTOBER SHOW
August 17, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is excited to officially open Attendee Registration for its popular annual convention, scheduled for October 25-29, 2023.
Attracting all locksmith and security industry professionals, the highly anticipated Yankee Security Convention returns for a second year to the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, MA for their fall show. Ever-growing, the show is one of the largest industry-only events, bringing together experts and enthusiasts alike for five action-packed days of education, exhibits, training, live demonstrations, ALOA PRP testing, and valuable networking opportunities.
On-line registration for the Yankee Security Convention’s educational sessions officially opened on August 1st and show management suggests that interested attendees sign up early so they don’t get closed out of choice courses.
For the full press release click here.
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NEWS, BLOGS, RESOURCES AND MORE
Check back often for updated news, articles and blogs about the show and our industry.
BLOG: August 2023
Becoming a Certified Master Locksmith (CML): Elevating Your Locksmithing Career
Locksmithing is an intricate craft that requires skill, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. For those looking to scale the heights of this profession, achieving the title of Certified Master Locksmith (CML) is the ultimate goal. In this informative blog, we’ll delve into what it takes to become a CML, the steps involved, and the journey towards mastering the art and science of locksmithing.
Plus, we will share how attending classes at the upcoming Yankee Security Convention can serve as a launch pad for certification. Read on!
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BLOG: July 2023
Unlocking Success: The Benefits of Exhibiting at Yankee Security Convention
In the fast-paced world of locksmiths and security professionals, staying ahead of the competition is crucial. As companies explore various marketing avenues to promote their products and services, one avenue stands out as a game-changer: exhibiting at an industry tradeshow.
Participating in an in-person, live event is a worthwhile investment for companies and their key salespeople. You can discover new products and solutions, get hands-on training and demonstrations, speak directly to key manufacturers about projects and challenges, attend educational sessions and keynote speaker presentations and network with industry colleagues on and off the show floor.
When speaking with new exhibitors about their decision to exhibit at Yankee Security Convention, we often hear how they wished they only started exhibiting sooner. This year, we have an amazing line up for the event. In this blog, we share testimonials from just a few of our key sponsors and exhibitors and what they have to say about the show. Read on!
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BLOG: June 2023
Trade Show Success: Preparing for the Yankee Security Convention Months in Advance
The Yankee Security Convention is just around the corner, and it’s never too early to start preparing for this highly anticipated event. By beginning your trade show preparations a couple months in advance, you can ensure a successful and productive experience.
In this blog, we’ll share essential tips to help you make the most of the Yankee Security Convention and leave a lasting impression on attendees. Read on!
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PRESS RELEASE
YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION WELCOMES AMERICAN KEY SUPPLY AS RUBY SPONSOR FOR THE 2023 TRADE SHOW
June 22, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention is excited to announce that American Key Supply has joined the show as a Ruby Sponsor for their 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
American Key Supply is a 2023 RUBY sponsor. They are a leading distributor of professional hardware and locksmith supplies. They are a long-time supporter of the Yankee Security Convention and the show’s mission to enhance the lives and business futures of those in the locksmith industry. American Key Supply is based in Las Vegas. Look for American Key Supply on the show’s lanyards this fall and find out more here.
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PRESS RELEASE
SHOWING UP IN DIAMONDS, SECLOCK BECOMES KEY SPONSOR FOR THE YANKEE SECURITY 2023 CONVENTION
June 22, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention is excited to announce that SECLOCK has joined the show as a Diamond Sponsor for their 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
SECLOCK has signed on to be the Yankee Security Convention’s DIAMOND sponsor, the highest tier of support for the event and the industry. SECLOCK is an industry leader and master distributor of mechanical and electrical door hardware. They have locations in Massachusetts, Illinois, Nevada, and Florida. Always gracious and generous, SECLOCK remains an industry icon and is sure to put on a show stopping exhibit in October.
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PRESS RELEASE
COMMONWEALTH LOCK COMPANY BECOMES EMERALD SPONSOR FOR YANKEE SECURITY 2023 CONVENTION
June 21, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is excited to announce that Commonwealth Lock Company has joined the show as an Emerald Sponsor for their 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Commonwealth Lock Company is an Emerald Sponsor of the 2023 Yankee Security Convention. Commonwealth Lock is a national wholesale distributor of door hardware, locksmith supplies and related items, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Commonwealth Lock is another advocate for the work of the Yankee Security Convention. You can find out more about them here and on the show floor in October.
For the full press release click here
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PRESS RELEASE
JMA BACK AGAIN AND A SPONSOR FOR THE YANKEE SECURITY 2023 CONVENTION
June 21, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention welcomes back JMA USA as a Ruby Sponsor for their 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
JMA USA is a 2023 Ruby Sponsor of the Yankee Security Convention. JMA USA is a leader in manufacturing automotive keys, key duplicators, remote controls, and transponder technology. They have over 80 years of experience and innovation. JMA USA will be sponsoring the Social Zone at the convention this year. We appreciate their support in enhancing the lives and securing the future of those in the locksmith industry. Find them on the web here.
For the full press release click here.
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REGIONAL SHOWS = KEY TO BUSINESS GROWTH:
WHY EXHIBITING AT YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION IS A GAME CHANGER
Choosing to exhibit at a localized regional industry show over a larger national event offers numerous advantages that can make an enormous difference for your ROI.
Here are just a few of the benefits that you can get from exhibiting at a localized regional industry show like the Yankee Security Convention.
- Better networking opportunities: With fewer attendees and exhibitors, a localized regional industry show creates the perfect environment for building more meaningful networking relationships with participants. For many national shows, attendees and exhibitors spend a substantial portion of their time getting to and from the exhibit hall and convention center. A more navigable venue means you will have more time to speak with attendees and can interact with industry peers in a more relaxed and intimate setting.
- Focused educational tracks: Unlike national trade shows, localized regional industry shows such as Yankee Security Convention can provide more focused educational tracks that are geared specifically towards peer-to-peer learning within the locksmith industry. From courses on changing trends such as the advances of mechanical versus digital locking technologies and security advancements using 2FA and AI, regional shows provide tremendous opportunities for both education and hands on learning. With more time to spend at the show versus traveling, you will have the opportunity to learn more about these products and services and leave with a stronger understanding of how to integrate them into your existing products and solutions.
- Higher quality attendees: Regional trade shows typically attract high-quality attendees within the industry, from nearby cities, making it a wonderful place to build relationships with potential customers and partners in their own backyard. With a more concentrated attendee base, a regional show is a fantastic way to get to know the local industry and build relationships within the community.
Read on for more tips
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BLOG: APRIL 2023
10 GREAT REASONS TO EXHIBIT AT YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION
TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BUSINESS SUCCESS
For hundreds of industries, attending a trade show is one of the best opportunities for businesses to build brand awareness, promote their products, highlight their services, create industry alliances and establish new relationships with potential customers.
There are many reasons why it’s beneficial to be part of events like the Yankee Security Convention and we’ve compiled just a few in this Top 10 List below.
Read on!
1. Reach a wider audience – in person – Trade shows can bring together people from all over the country and even the world providing an opportunity to have direct contact with potential clients and other vendor partners that can enhance your business growth. Showcasing your company to a diverse audience enables you to truly get a feel for what products the market needs now and in the future.
2. Networking – Many people literally “grow up” in a particular industry. Much like the locksmith and security industry, we have generations upon generations of professionals that get together “on the road” for trade shows making this an excellent way to connect and reconnect with colleagues as well as meet with potential customers.
3. Generate new leads – Although never the ONLY reason people exhibit, being at a trade show event is one of the best ways to create lead generation for potential future business opportunities that can turn them into loyal customers. Post-show, remember to do a thorough post-show follow-up! So many people talk about great opportunities but fail to close deals simply because they never pursue their leads.
For the full blog and all of the tips, click here.
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BLOG: MARCH 2023
CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
UNLOCKING THE SECRET TO SUCCESS WITH INDUSTRY LOCKSTAR, LORI GREENE
Profile shot of Lori Greene, Lockstar & Industry Icon
It may be Women’s History Month, but this article isn’t just about an industry icon and expert, who happens to be a truly successful woman in a male-dominated industry. This month, we celebrate the concept that if you have a passion, you can dream it, you can build it, you can become it and you can live it every day. And this is a message that reaches far beyond a month or a particular gender or any one career. Read on for more about Lori Greene, DAHC/CDC, FDAI, FDHI, CCPR, and the manager of codes and resources for Allegion.
Lori Greene is known by many in the industry as one of the leading experts in code requirements, and the impact those mandates have on how door and hardware industry professionals perform their work. She is a member of the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) Codes, Government, and Industry Affairs Committee and works with the model codes and referenced standards related to door openings. She is also very involved with school security/ safety awareness and the importance of code-compliant fire door assemblies.
For more than three decades, Lori has experienced nearly every aspect of the door and hardware industry, from distributor and manufacturer’s rep to specification expert and code crusader, and has done it with passion, grace, intellect, and a relentless pursuit of what it means to be accountable to safety.
A Grand Plan Reveals Itself
In a recent interview with Lori about her beginnings in the locksmith and security industry she recalls she had no grand plan laid out when she started learning about doors and hardware. An architectural graduate of Vermont Technical College, she found herself a hardware detailer as she began her career. She feels fortunate that early on in her work, she discovered a passion for codes, and felt she could make a difference by understanding them and by helping others not only understand them but come to care about their importance as she did.
As part of this desire, Lori knew she needed a bigger platform and more readily accessible information and training on codes and their requirements. So, in 2009, she started a website called iDigHardware. Her initial intent was to simply use the site as a way to put code information out where people could access it, but her site, fueled by her knowledge, had bigger plans.
In this day and age, blogs and experts come and go, but still going strong after 14 years, Lori’s website, her blog and her growing following continue as a trusted resource to thousands of manufacturers, spec writers, consultants, architects, AHJ’s and trade professionals worldwide.
For the full blog, click here.
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PRESS RELEASE
UNLOCKING LIMITLESS POTENTIAL –
YANKEE SECURITY CONVENTION RETURNS FOR 2023 SHOW
February 28, 2023 – East Hartford, CT – Yankee Security Convention, a 501C3 charitable organization committed to the promotion and further education of the locksmith and security industry is excited to announce the dates for its 2023 Annual Convention, October 25-29, 2023, in Springfield, MA.
The Yankee Security Convention is a 5-day assembly of locksmiths and security professionals that features 3 days of education, with over 25 classes, covering
a wide variety of subjects related to the security industry. The instructors are the most well-known and respected names in the industry. Class registration
opens in July of 2023. This year’s show theme, “Unlocking Limitless Potential” will be the catalyst for the event’s networking and educational opportunities as the show returns to the MassMutual Center in Springfield.
Click here for a full version of the release.