ST AUGUSTINE, FL, October 27, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Thomas O'Brien has been recognized for his achievements and leadership in the field of perimeter security.

Mr. O'Brien's career in perimeter security has been shaped by determination, practical experience and a strong commitment to both his employees and clients. As owner of Solid Security USA since 2011, he remains actively involved in the company's day-to-day operations, working alongside senior staff and installation crews, participating in client meetings and project discussions, and helping guide the company's long-term direction.

Together with his wife Alanna, Mr. O'Brien founded Solid Security during a period of significant personal sacrifice. He sold his possessions to help fund the business, while his family relied on food assistance during the company's earliest days. From the beginning, there was immediate pressure to secure work and build a sustainable business. What started as a determined effort to provide for his family has since developed into a company serving customers across North America.

Under Mr. O'Brien's leadership, Solid Security USA has built its reputation around specialized perimeter security, field execution and long-term customer support. Just as important to him is the development of the people within the organization.

Mr. O'Brien takes particular pride in helping employees recognize their own potential through training, responsibility and advancement. His philosophy is that when employees are treated well and given the opportunity to grow, that commitment is reflected in the way they serve customers.

That philosophy extends beyond traditional workplace benefits. Mr. O'Brien understands the importance of work-life balance; he promotes this in the company culture in many ways. For example, Solid Security employees work five weeks on and one week off, and the company has sponsored cruises for employees and their families. Many of the company's field crews also include fathers and sons, brothers and other family members, reinforcing the close-knit culture Mr. O'Brien has worked to build.

Before launching Solid Security USA, Mr. O'Brien served as a senior project manager with Gallagher Security from 2001 to 2011. During that time, he gained extensive experience managing large-scale projects and working closely with channel partners throughout the security industry.

His years with Gallagher under the supervision of Tom Friederichs, who would become a lifelong friend, helped him recognize an unmet need in the market: a specialized perimeter security partner willing and able to travel nationally to support complex installations.

That experience ultimately became part of the foundation for Solid Security USA.

Earlier in his career, from 1994 to 2001, Mr. O'Brien owned O'Brien's Construction in northern New York, specializing in residential remodeling projects, including kitchens and bathrooms, as well as full-house renovations.

During slower seasonal periods, he began looking for additional opportunities. His sister, who worked near a security manufacturer in Sanford, Florida, told him about a need for installers. Although he had no previous experience with electrified fencing systems, Mr. O'Brien accepted the opportunity, completed his first installation and quickly developed an interest in the technology and the perimeter security industry.

That experience eventually led him to relocate his family to Florida without a guaranteed position, but with the confidence that he had found the direction he wanted to pursue professionally.

Mr. O'Brien earned his General Educational Development diploma and credits much of his success to humility, listening carefully to others and identifying areas of need rather than simply competing in crowded markets.

His approach to business remains practical and customer-focused. He emphasizes doing what is right for the customer, avoiding unnecessary changes and finding solutions that provide long-term value. That mindset has helped Solid Security navigate challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to serve customers and support employees.

Outside of the business, Mr. O'Brien remains active in his community. He has donated arm-wrestling tables to gyms and supported families in need during the holidays, reflecting his interest in youth development and community involvement.

Born in Ogdensburg, New York, Mr. O'Brien is the oldest of seven children raised in a family that had its fair share of hardship. His father worked seasonally as a heavy equipment operator, and his upbringing had a lasting influence on his work ethic and outlook on life.

His grandfather, known as Grandpa Joe, was another major influence, and Mr. O'Brien proudly carries that name forward, as most of his family and closest friends know him simply by "Joey".

Arm wrestling has become a family tradition. Mr. O'Brien stays active in arm wrestling in Florida in both left and right-handed competition, while his youngest son has competed at an international level. His father has continued competing into his 80s, and his mother also participated in the sport years ago.

Mr. O'Brien continues to promote and support the sport of arm wrestling by encouraging younger competitors, and also by sharing the enjoyment of a treasured keepsake on display in his office, the easily-recognized arm wrestling table from the beloved film Over the Top.

Outside of security and arm wrestling, Mr. O'Brien enjoys building hot rods. He also places a strong emphasis on family and enjoys spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family.

Looking ahead, Mr. O'Brien intends to continue building Solid Security USA into a long-term family business that the next generation can carry forward.

His son James works within the company and alongside field crews, allowing Mr. O'Brien to pass on both technical knowledge and the values that helped shape the business. Mr. O'Brien, with the support of his family and the team he has built from the ground up, are carving the path to a solid future for generations to come.

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