RIDGELAND, MS, November 05, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Bret C. Guillotte has been recognized for achievement in fire protection and commercial security.

Marked by more than 40 years of exemplary service in fire protection and commercial security systems, Mr. Guillotte currently serves as president of M & R Protective Systems in Brandon, Mississippi, where he coordinates between electrical contractors and clients to facilitate vital fire alarm system projects. His responsibilities include preparing quotes based on project specifications and building drawings, collaborating with his general manager — a longtime friend and former employee of the Mississippi State Fire Marshal's office — to develop projects and submit proposals, and overseeing daily office operations with the goal of delivering personalized safety solutions and outstanding service.

Additionally, Mr. Guillotte processes payroll, prepares invoices, manages accounts receivable and monitors overdue payments, with his oversight of administrative operations supporting the continued growth and reputation of the business. Under his leadership, M & R Protective Systems has expanded from three employees and two vehicles at the start of his tenure to seven employees and five vehicles today, focusing exclusively on commercial fire systems.

Prior to assuming the presidency at M & R, Mr. Guillotte worked as a security sales representative with Burgess Sales LLC from 2023 to 2026. During this period, he maintained strong relationships within the security industry and continued contributing his expertise in commercial fire alarm systems, which allowed him to remain engaged with the sector while receiving his pension benefits.

From 2018 to 2023, Mr. Guillotte excelled as a district sales manager at Resideo, a company formed after Honeywell spun off its security and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) divisions in 2018. His tenure at Resideo followed a longstanding career at Honeywell, where he also served as a district sales manager from 1992 to 2018.

Throughout his time at Honeywell, Mr. Guillotte was recognized for his exceptional skills and dedication by being named National Sales Manager of the Year on three occasions — in 1994, 1998 and 2011 — an achievement that stands among his proudest professional milestones. In 2013, he was inducted into the Mississippi Security Association Hall of Fame, further cementing his legacy in the field.

Mr. Guillotte's journey in the electronic security industry began in 1981 when he joined Day Detectives Security Services as a sales professional. He remained with the company until 1992, gaining valuable experience at one of the largest security providers in the Southeastern United States before transitioning to Alarm Device Manufacturing Company (Ademco). His years at Ademco were marked by frequent travel and exposure to major industry innovations until the company was acquired by Honeywell in 2000.

Alongside his primary roles, Mr. Guillotte has been actively involved in several professional organizations dedicated to ongoing advancements in fire protection and commercial security. He is a charter member of the Honeywell Mentoring Program and holds memberships with the Mississippi Alarm Association, the Louisiana Alarm Association and the Alabama Alarm Association.

Education played a unique role in shaping Mr. Guillotte's career path. After completing high school, he attended junior college for two years but chose to enter the workforce rather than pursue a four-year degree. He attributes much of his practical knowledge to what he calls the School of Hard Knocks, crediting real-world experience for his expertise in fire alarm systems and sales. Dedicated to the ideals of continuous learning, he is certified as a Six Sigma green belt, enhancing his ability to manage processes efficiently within each organization he has served.

Additionally, mentorship has been a key factor in Mr. Guillotte's success. He acknowledges Ben Cornett, former president of Honeywell International, as a significant influence due to their shared Southern roots and the enduring camaraderie they built around their love of college football. Joe Sausa likewise played a pivotal role as both a mentor and supporter during Mr. Guillotte's time at Ademco. Another significant mentor was Larry Comeaux of Lafayette, Louisiana — an industry leader whom Mr. Guillotte had the honor of inducting into the Honeywell Lifetime Achievement Award program.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Guillotte has demonstrated a strong commitment to both youth sports and community service. He served as president of the Ridgeland Titan High School Athletic Booster Club in 2010 and led Madison-Ridgeland Youth Club from 2007 to 2009. His devotion to helping others extends to charitable efforts such as organizing food donations for homeless shelters across his community.

On a personal level, Mr. Guillotte has been happily married to his wife Tracy since 1991, and together they are the proud parents of one son. As a balance to his professional endeavors, he enjoys spending time with his two grandchildren, playing golf and traveling.

Determined to further his impact in the safety and security sector, Mr. Guillotte is focused on expanding M & R Protective Systems while preparing future generations — including his nephew and cousin's son — to carry the company's legacy forward. He remains deeply committed to working hard for the continued success of his business and all those who depend on it.

Mr. Guillotte's journey reflects resilience, adaptability and an unwavering dedication to serving both his profession and community — qualities that have defined his distinguished career in fire protection and commercial security.

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