ESA national training school instructor of the year 2023: Jim Mundy

The Electronic Security Association (ESA) has bestowed its National Training School Instructor of the Year honour to Jim Mundy, President of Asset Protection Associates, who stands as a shining example of dedication, expertise, and inspiration in the field of electronic security and life safety.

“My first absolute love is teaching,” says Jim Mundy. “I began teaching when I was twelve years old, starting with archery, then later as a technical instructor in the military, eventually making my way to teaching in the electronic and life safety industry.” 

Mundy’s background in teaching 

Not only did Mundy begin teaching when he was twelve years old, but he was also first introduced to the security industry. It was the mid-1950s and there was a man in Jim’s neighbourhood selling door-to-door heat detection systems, who pitched the product to Jim’s dad. A seed was planted, and young Jim became curious about fire detection technology.

A seed was planted, and young Jim became curious about fire detection technology

His school projects through elementary and high school often involved elements of fire alarm, security, and circuitry. Once Jim graduated from high school, he did a three-and-a-half-year apprenticeship in the burner boiler field. There he used circuits very similar to those used in fire alarm systems. Then Jim joined the military, where he became a circuitry instructor in the Air Force.

NFPA technical committee work

After his time in the military, Jim taught classes at The City University of New York in the areas of HVAC controls, fire alarms, and security. After spending thirty-five years in corporate America in 1999 he started his own company where he integrated building systems with a focus in fire alarms. Jim always found interest in the codes and standards for these processes in the industry. He decided to get involved in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Technical Committee work and taught it to many organisations.

Since 1992, Jim has been a dedicated ESA National Training School (NTS) Instructor. "I love engaging with people and watching all the light bulbs come on. ESA does an excellent job teaching code through its programs. They work really hard to make it simple, so people understand it. It is important to not make it complicated and instead make it meaningful,” says Jim. “If you understand the concept and ideas, you can always read the code and the technical stuff.”

Sales is teaching 

Paul and I worked together on licencing and training issues in New York State while I was Chair

One thing that Jim noticed during his time as a sales manager was the best salespeople he hired were individuals who had teaching degrees or equivalent experience. "Sales is about teaching. It is not simply about selling a deal. It is a matter of communicating in a way that helps people understand what we are trying to provide them. If they don't understand the idea, then you are going to have a bad sale,” explains Jim. 

When asked about how he felt about being awarded ESA’s NTS Instructor of the Year award Jim answered, “The answer in short is “Wow!” I was very profoundly humbled and did not expect to receive this honour. The person for whom this award is named is Paul Barran. Paul and I worked together on licencing and training issues in New York State while I was Chair of the NYS Licencing Board.”

Real-world applications and implications

Jim Mundy's journey as an instructor is characterised by his unwavering passion for teaching and his commitment to fostering an enriching learning experience. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that his students not only grasp the technical aspects but also develop a deep understanding of its real-world applications and implications. His ability to communicate complex concepts with clarity and enthusiasm has earned him the admiration of countless students. 

True mark of a special educator is one’s ability to inspire lifelong wisdom and unique growth

A true mark of an outstanding educator is one’s ability to inspire lifelong learning and personal growth. By encouraging students to engage with the subject matter beyond the classroom, Jim Mundy fostered a sense of ownership and passion for each one’s own learning journey. In fact, Jim’s mantra has always been, “A day without learning is a waste of twenty-four hours.” This is applicable not only to training but to life in general. Jim Mundy's impact extends far beyond the duration of his courses, as he instilled in his students a curiosity and eagerness to continue exploring and expanding their horizons. His tells everyone that each should not lose a sense of wonder.

Overall vitality of the security industry 

Additionally, Jim’s emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability has equipped his students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing field. Jim has contributed to the overall vitality of the security industry by producing well-rounded and forward-thinking professionals. 

ESA would like to thank Jim Mundy for his 60 years of service and excellence in instructing within the industry and congratulate him on his upcoming retirement.