Celebrating Dr. Shane M. Clary: A leader, innovator, and advocate for the alarm industry

For over four decades, Dr. Shane M. Clary has been a cornerstone of leadership, technical expertise, and tireless advocacy in the security and fire alarm industry. As Senior Vice President, Government Relations at Bay Alarm Company, Dr. Clary has dedicated his career to ensuring the highest levels of safety, reliability, and professionalism in life safety systems across the country.

Dr. Clary is widely recognized as one of the industry’s most respected authorities on fire codes, life safety standards, and regulatory policy. He has served on numerous National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committees and has played a key role in shaping the codes and standards that guide our industry today. His work has not only elevated Bay Alarm’s operational excellence but has also contributed to safer communities nationwide.

A well-recognized career in the security industry

Over the years, Dr. Clary has received numerous awards and recognition honoring his expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public safety. These accolades reflect a career marked by integrity, service, and a deep dedication to advancing the field.

His distinguished career has been recognized with numerous industry honors over nearly 30 years, including:

• William N. Moody Award (2024): Presented by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC) at ESX in Louisville in recognition of his leadership in positive alarm management and advocacy for best industry practices
• Stan Martin Excellence in Advocacy Award (2024): Given by SIAC for outstanding contributions in industry advocacy and public safety efforts
• George A. Weinstock Award for Lifetime Achievement & Service to the Industry (2011): From the California Alarm Association, honoring a career of exceptional service
• Art Kane Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement (1997): This achievement from the California Automatic Fire Alarm Association honors those who have dedicated themselves to the values of the industry

A longtime voice on fire alarm policy and procedures

Apart from his position as Senior Vice President, Government Relations at Bay Alarm, Dr. Clary has held several other influential roles that have shaped the direction of the fire and life safety industry.

• NFPA Standards Council (2005-2011): Served as Chair of the Policy and Procedures Committee during a pivotal period when the NFPA implemented new codes and standards.
• NFPA 72® (1993-2013): Contributed to the development of the NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code® since 1993. Starting in 2003, he served as Chair of the Technical Committee for the Fundamentals of Fire Alarm Systems.
• Author & Columnist: Contributes regularly to Security Sales & Integration via the “Fire Side Chat” column, leveraging 50+ years of experience.

A steadfast advocate for safety now and in the future

Looking into the future, Dr. Clary shows no signs of slowing down. His sights are set on the following goals.

• Right-to-Repair: Collaborating with several national trade associations in the security and life safety industry to advocate for alarm system exemptions in Right-to-Repair legislation being considered by various state legislatures. These exemptions are critical to prevent unauthorized access to building security and life safety systems by bad actors.
• NextNav: Partnering with multiple industry trade associations to raise concerns with the Federal Communications Commission and Members of Congress regarding a proposed technology that could disrupt the performance of wireless devices used in modern security and life safety systems.
• Surveillance Systems: As Chair of the California Alarm Association Government Affairs Committee, Dr. Clary is working with the Security Industry Association® and the Electronic Security Association® to oppose or amend several California bills that would limit the effectiveness of video surveillance systems in commercial buildings, reducing their ability to adequately protect people and property both inside and outside the premises.

At Bay Alarm, we are proud to call Dr. Clary a colleague and grateful for his long-standing service and influence. His tenure has helped establish the foundation of excellence that defines our company, and his voice remains one of the most trusted and impactful in the industry.

Thank you, Dr. Shane Clary, for your remarkable contributions—to Bay Alarm, to the industry, and to all those who rely on the protection we provide.

Updated on: January 13th, 2026