aloa.org March 2025 Keynotes 17 ALOA Electronics Education Remember in past columns when I said to expand your horizons by stepping out of your comfort zone? Well, electronics is exactly that for many traditional lock- smiths. Luckily, ALOA has certifications for electronics. The first testing level is Certified Electronics Locksmith (CEL). Those who have passed that and are more experienced in electronic access can test for the Certified Master Electronics Locksmith (CMEL) certification. Two of our ACE Instructors have the highest CMEL certification: James Ash- ley, CPL, CMST, CMEL, CFL, CFMST, CAI, and Greg Perry, CML, CPS, CMEL, AMKS, CAI. ALOA offers classes in electronics and access control at our conventions to help develop your skill level and increase your potential income. Maybe it’s time to take full advantage of those offerings. When we release the class schedule for the 2025 ALOA Con- vention & Security Expo, consider taking a class in this subject area. Conclusion: Can We Embrace the Future of Electronic Security? Whether we like it or not, electronic locks represent a significant advance- ment in security technology. It is easy to see how they offer enhanced security, convenience and integration capabilities that make them a valuable addition to any home or business. As locksmiths, we need to make sure our service menu includes this technology. Traditional locks and keys still have an important place within our security world, but so do electronic locks. It’s your choice as the security professional to reject or embrace that reality. However, embracing it will get you a lot farther on your continuing locksmith journey. ALOA SPAI Director of Education William M. Lynk, CML, CPS, ICML, CMIL, CAI, M.Ed., has been a locksmith since 1975 and is the owner of www.ICLSglobal.com. Bill is an IC specialist, an industry author, the subject matter expert on IC for ALOA, and an ALOA ACE instructor, teaching classes on interchangeable cores and master keying across the country. He has originated SFIC Technical Manuals for both national and international lock manufactur- ers, and maintains a working relationship with the major lock and security manufac- turers throughout the world. In 2013, he was named Keynotes Author of the Year. Designed by a Locksmith SAVE TIME LockCaddyTM Streamlines Your Work from Shop to Job Site OCK CADDY ™ Locks, keys and accessories are not included. LFIC SFIC CONVENTIONAL INTRODUCING THE LOCKCADDY® MINI-B™ EASY PINNING AND SERVICING • Conventional, LFIC, and SFIC styles with unique design features to securely hold cylinders for servicing • Conveniently stores keys and parts • Durable, lightweight and portable, and may easily be secured to a workbench • Stackable and available in black or orange ORDER NOW www.lockcaddy.com See all the features in our online videos.
