SIAC asks you to help welcome Julie Lyons to our staff. In January, Julie took on the position of Executive Assistant at SIAC. She had been working remotely for Kirk MacDowell as a part of the MacGuard Security Advisors team, which led her to this new role within SIAC when Kirk became President of the Board.
In her SIAC position, Julie will help Executive Director Stan Martin on a number of administrative fronts, including invoicing pledges, collections and fundraising efforts.
“Julie has a tremendous range of experience across the security industry that will serve us well here at SIAC. Her perspective, energy and knowledge on security issues helps us improve how quickly, effectively and thoroughly we handle multiple issues related to our contributors and supporters,” Martin said.
Julie began her work in the industry at Sentrol (Tualatin, Oregon) in 1992 as the Executive Assistant to the President, supporting more than 35 sales representatives. In 1993, Aritech acquired Sentrol, which brought new leadership to the company, including Dave Lyons. The two kept in touch long-distance and decided to make it official when Julie semi-retired to spend more time with Dave and her family at home in Portland, Oregon.
Julie has two children, a daughter Rachel, and son Sam. She enjoyed being home during their high school years to support her children in sports and academic achievements. Once both of her children were away at college, Julie continued to travel with Dave, and due to her love of cooking and photography, she started a blog: The Year of the Cook. She posted a new recipe and photos (almost) every day for a full year.
Dave’s career moved them to Chicago when he joined the team at System Sensor. Julie was born and raised in Chicago, where most of her family still resides. While the move made it hard to be away from her children, it was wonderful to be closer to her mother and sisters. Julie and Dave spent time between Chicago, Oregon and Maine — where they owned a vacation home at the beach.
Unfortunately, in 2017, Dave passed away, which brought Julie back to the beautiful Pacific Northwest to be closer to her children. She loved living in Oregon and was happy to find a new place to call home along the stunning Oregon coast where the beach is just steps from her front door. When she isn’t working, you can find her walking on the beach, hiking, or enjoying her beautiful backyard.
Please reach Julie directly at julie@siacinc.org.