The ESX 2010 show wrapped up Thursday in Pittsburgh and the event has definitely turned into a premier educational venue for systems integrators and installing contractors.

The peer-to-peer flavor of the training sessions and workshops allowed systems integrators from the region - and across the country for that matter - to tell others what they are doing to gain more RMR. Adjusting to new communications challenges and the demise of hardline telephones, as well as integration and how to do it and garner insights, were among a host of topics that seemed on target and well-received, evidenced by full classrooms and some standing-room-only sessions.

At the Electronic Security Association (ESA) General Membership meeting, John Galante of AE Ventures, show management, said attendance was in the 2,000 range and was flat or even with last year's show in Baltimore. He also said he had gotten a good number of exhibitors re-signing for next year's show, June 13 through 17 in Charlotte, N.C. The peer-to-peer flavor of the education, he added, with integrators sharing their expertise, seemed to resonate with attendees, who packed sessions and workshops to get an edge on increasing their business in this increasingly challenging contracting environment.

New officers and achievements

Mike Miller, president of ESA and vice president at Moon Security Services received special recognition for his two years of service and introduced new president, effective July 1, Charles "Dom" D'Ascoli, Smoky Mountain Systems Inc. Franklin, N.C., who was sworn in as new president as other officers were also inducted-all by Darryl Jones, chief of the Pittsburgh Fire Department and a 23-veteran of first responder service. New officers included John Knox, Life & Property Security Systems Inc., Knoxville, Tenn.; Marshall C. Marinace, Marshall Alarm Systems; Mike Horgan, H&S Protection Systems, Inc.; and William Cooper.

A special President's Leadership Award was presented to Marinace for his contributions to the organization. ESA also announced the addition of five new states to the ranks of Charter Chapter: New Mexico; Kansas; Virginia; Arizona and Nevada.

Even more from the floor...

There's so much more to report from ESX and so many insights that I'm going to give you these snippets:

- SD&I keynoter Rocky Bleier (former Pittsburgh Steeler) ignited the crowd with his talk of hope, teamwork, opportunity and leadership-and flashed four super bowl rings in the process.