What I do

I design and install residential and business security systems. This can be anything from installing alarms to cameras. First, I do a security study, which is the theoretical part – where you work out how it is going to be done – and then there is the technical part, which is the actual installation of the equipment.

We provide this for everyone, from homes to small businesses to large corporate organisations that want to secure their businesses and servers.

Hear more about Silvi's role by watching the video below...

How I became a technician

I am Greek and I attended high school there before moving to the UK aged 17 to study photography. I was keen to learn the technical side, and I wanted to become a Forensic Photographer. I was then told about a potential job in this company, as a Security Consultant, not an engineer, so at first, I was not sure. But I decided to go for it, and they offered me the job.

After a year, one of the managers on the technical side mentioned that they wanted to take on an engineer. I applied, and the rest is history! We use cameras as part of our security systems, and I have a good knowledge of them – I can take them apart and build them back together.

A typical day in my
working life

I have a schedule on my tablet of the appointments I have for that day. Every appointment is a different person, and each job is different. Sometimes I assess what security system is needed for a new client, sometimes I do a physical installation and other times I service an existing system. On some days, for example, I may have five servicing jobs, but when I have assessments, it’s only possible to do one or two throughout the day.

So, there’s a lot of variety and I meet a lot of people. During an assessment, I walk around the venue and check all the entry and exit points and assess where I think there may be a risk in the future. For example, say there is a big glass window on the roof that could be a risk for the customer as someone could break in. I discuss my findings with the client to reach the best possible solution for them.

I meet new people every day - which I love!

Don’t be afraid to do a job that you think is in a male environment. It isn’t just a man’s role to do what I do - women can do this equally well.

The advice I'd give to
someone younger

Go for it! Don’t be afraid to try anything. Better to try and fail than not try at all. Usually, parents encourage their children to do a degree to be able to be something in the future, but that is not always the right route. Some people like to be hands on. So don’t feel pressure from others and do what is best for you.

A little more about
my everyday role

The most exciting thing I've achieved so far in my job

My manager and I visited a musician in the Kent countryside concerning a security system. We reassured him that we would fix everything and that he would be safe. After our visit, he emailed our CEO to congratulate him on having me and my manager as part of the team because we did such a good job. We were both so proud. What motivates me is being able to make people feel safe.

What I wear to work

I have a uniform – a branded T-shirt, jackets for the winter and cargo trousers with thick material to protect our legs and lots of pockets, as we can be up and down quite a bit. We have safety goggles, gloves, and boots or trainers, depending on the job.

The skills I use the most

Attention to detail is key to what I do. I need to recognise what we need to secure. Communication is also important, as I listen to clients’ concerns and needs. Problem solving is also a big part of this job, especially when we’re doing a system service. Sometimes, for example, there may be a technical issue and I need to solve it quickly.

The favourite tool I use

My favourite tool is definitely my tablet, as without it I can’t access any of the applications I need. My electric drill is also a very important tool for me for installations.

The next steps in my career journey

I would one day love to become a company manager. I love working in a team and I would like to have my own team one day, to help others grow and progress.

Who I admire

I admire my father, who worked in security. Also, I admire Mark Zuckerberg because when he was just 12, he had such fantastic knowledge of computers.

What I do to relax

I have always loved photography and I enjoy the post-production of putting the images on the computer and editing them.

Find out more about this role

Discover what qualifications you’ll need, how much you can earn, and what the next steps are.

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