Creenan's goals in his new leadership role are to grow membership and increase awareness and knowledge of the IQ Program. He also plans to continue strengthening the bond between the alarm industry and public safety officials by working to reduce unnecessary dispatches. As part of the IQ code of ethics, certified companies agree to adopt specific quality management and alarm control measures on every alarm system they install.

Creenan takes over the reins of the IQ certification board at an exciting time, as IQ is currently rebranding its look and redefining its focus and purpose.

"One of the biggest misconceptions about IQ is that it is just a false alarm prevention program," Creenan said. "My company joined IQ to take advantage of the marketing benefits and increased professionalism of the program the program delivers. Being IQ Certified sets us apart from other companies in the eyes of consumers; that's the message we want to promote."

Within a month of attending his first IQ meeting in 2003, Creenan was asked by then-Chairperson Lisa Prosser to join the IQ Certification Board. When the treasurer resigned shortly after that, he stepped into that role - and the rest is history.

Prior to attending that first meeting, Creenan was already a firm believer in the IQ Program. Amherst Alarm, the company he founded more than 20 years ago, earned IQ certification in the program's first year, becoming one of the first 25 IQ Certified companies.

After earning IQ Certification, Creenan said his company realized the program's additional benefits, including improved installation procedures and business processes, financial benefits and false alarm reduction.

"Even if you believe your business is running well, there is always room for improvement," he said. "The benefits of being IQ Certified are as valuable to companies today as they were when my company achieved certification."