Tom Lynch, CRL, VST - Founder
Founder of the Society of Professional Locksmiths (SOPL), a peer driven social network organization developed for security professionals to provide alternative opportunities for educational advancement, certification and industry representation. Tom is the driving force behind the Security Technical Institute (STI), which is the first complete online training and online proficiency certification testing program for the professional locksmith industry.
As creator of the locksmith industry's first Internet radio program, known as Lock Radio - The Security Industry Global Broadcast Network, Tom delivered industry interviews, news, entertainment and provided a voice for the locksmiths who were not being represented ethically by their national association.
Tom had achieved ACE Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL) rating as well as ACE Certified Instructor in addition to serving as the North East Director of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). He was a contributing technical writer for - the National Locksmith Magazine and has provided articles for the Locksmith Ledger and Keynotes Magazine. He actively participated with the Senate Sub-Committee Hearings for the Automotive Right to Repair Act held in Washington and was the longest standing locksmith member of the Vehicle Security Committee participating with the National Automotive Security Task Force.
As Past President and member of the North Jersey Master Locksmiths Association (NJMLA) he assisted in association business and continued education. In addition he was also employed by or provided expert instruction for - Lockmaster PUREAuto, Mark Bates Assoc., HPC Auto Entry, Mul-T-Lock -USA High Security, Sharpe Communications Shark Marketing, Associate Locksmiths of America (ALOA), American Auto Lock, New York City Police Academy Crime Prevention Unit,numerous local and state associations.
He has been seen on NBC Today Show, WPIX-11 and has worked closely with Fox News, CBS, other media outlets and news agencies investigating scams or events related to the security industry. He currently acts as a consulting member for the SOPL & STI state approved locksmith training programs and occupational license certification.
- United States Patent #6824335 for the Lynch-IT Variable Drill Jig
- U.S. Navy Submarine Service Veteran
- Member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers IBEW
As creator of the locksmith industry's first Internet radio program, known as Lock Radio - The Security Industry Global Broadcast Network, Tom delivered industry interviews, news, entertainment and provided a voice for the locksmiths who were not being represented ethically by their national association.
Tom had achieved ACE Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL) rating as well as ACE Certified Instructor in addition to serving as the North East Director of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). He was a contributing technical writer for - the National Locksmith Magazine and has provided articles for the Locksmith Ledger and Keynotes Magazine. He actively participated with the Senate Sub-Committee Hearings for the Automotive Right to Repair Act held in Washington and was the longest standing locksmith member of the Vehicle Security Committee participating with the National Automotive Security Task Force.
As Past President and member of the North Jersey Master Locksmiths Association (NJMLA) he assisted in association business and continued education. In addition he was also employed by or provided expert instruction for - Lockmaster PUREAuto, Mark Bates Assoc., HPC Auto Entry, Mul-T-Lock -USA High Security, Sharpe Communications Shark Marketing, Associate Locksmiths of America (ALOA), American Auto Lock, New York City Police Academy Crime Prevention Unit,numerous local and state associations.
He has been seen on NBC Today Show, WPIX-11 and has worked closely with Fox News, CBS, other media outlets and news agencies investigating scams or events related to the security industry. He currently acts as a consulting member for the SOPL & STI state approved locksmith training programs and occupational license certification.
- United States Patent #6824335 for the Lynch-IT Variable Drill Jig
- U.S. Navy Submarine Service Veteran
- Member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers IBEW
“Tom's, take charge and forward manner, coupled with his sense of responsibility are refreshing characteristics to see in an individual. In today's environment of pass the buck "solutions" or thinking "I don't know" is an answer, Tom breaks the mold. I have worked with Tom in many capacities, Locksmith-Locksmith, Distributor-Distributor, Educator-Educator and a few variants of the above. In any capacity which we interacted, it was always the same, Professional-Professional.
Seth Pehr, President, Daniel Pehr, Inc.” “I have known Tom for a couple of years now and his character and integrity are above reproach. In everything he has set out to do to help the locksmith industry he has stayed true to his word and succeeded. Many have tried to copy his ways, but you can always spot the original in a crowd. On a personal note, both directly and indirectly through my contact with Tom and the SOPL, I have received more referrals and in turn made more money, than 3 other trade associations put together. I look forward to spending more time learning from his examples and working with him to better this industry.”
Skip Locke, CPL, Owner, Total Access Security “In founding the Society of Professional Locksmiths, Tom Lynch has provided aggressive, thoughtful leadership to a foundering industry. He has created an organization that is open and provides concrete benefits to its members, and its effects have been seen and felt throughout the trade. Without hesitation, I recommend Tom Lynch as an industry professional, a colleague, and as a friend.”
Barry Campbell, Managing Director, Society of Professional Locksmiths “Tom is a locksmithing professional with vast knowledge and experience in the industry. He is both a strong instructor and team builder. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Tom on a few projects and he displays an energetic and driven personality. Tom has proven to be a well-respected industry leader who is innovative and entrepreneurial. I look forward to working with him further and I strongly recommend Tom for consideration or referral.”
Chad Winland, Deputy General Manager, Bianchi USA, Inc “Tom is the type of individual that you can count on both professionally and personally. Tom`s passion for his craft and industry is apparent as he is the founder & director of operations for the Society of Professional Locksmiths.
Tom works hard to keep the locksmith industry honest and transparent. He is the Locksmith that other locksmith’s & security professionals turn to when they need advice. Simply said, Tom is good guy. Jordan Frankel | The Security Sensei, Vice President, ShatterGARD Security “I have worked with Tom for over 20 years. His interest in promoting professionalism within the industry is second to no one. I have always revered him as a leader with new ideas and progressive techniques.”
Will StClair, Owner/Entrepreneur, ALS "I know Tom as a keen, determined and assiduous hunter of common justice, a champion of the truth and a demon incarnate to those who would obfuscate or twist facts to gain unfair advantage. His skills as a Locksmith are well documented, proven and undeniable. His level of experience in the field is second to none, a foundation which has made him recognised as an industry authority. During the time I have known Tom, I have come to consider his advice and opinion to be well balanced and composed, his reasoning sound and his judgement tempered with insights few others possess. I have no hesitation in recommending Tom both as a Locksmith and as a champion of the industry."
David Bellis Owner, Keyway Locks |
“Tom Lynch is the kind of person everybody needs on their team - "the go to" person, the "idea" man. Tom has the kind of mind that can take a challenge that would ordinarily bring an operation to a halt - and not only turn the situation around, but turn it into a benefit as well. Tom always thinks outside the box, rises to any challenge, and provides sensible, profitable, and often fun opportunities. When you work with Tom, you walk away feeling like he has given you something solid, credible, to work with. He always brings something to the table - including his endless energy and enthusiasm!”
Hope Tucker, Owner, Fradon Lock Co., Inc. “I recommend Tom Lynch as I've seen his passion for the Physical Security Industry like no other individual in the past decade. He is constantly emerged in his mission to make the Professional Locksmith the best one can be. Tom has initiated monumentous programs to make his membership the most elite professionals empowered with knowledge and opportunity unmatched in our industry. This individual has what it takes to get the mission done.”
Larry Schwalb, RL, CEO & Security Engineer, Houdini Lock & Safe Company “I have known Tom Lynch for over a decade. Tom is a mover and shaker in the industry. Tom has done a remarkable job in developing and managing the society of professional locksmiths. I consider Tom a true friend in the industry.”
Mike Bronzell, President, Illinois Indiana Locksmith Association “Tom is a can-do energetic give 'em all I got business partner to all. He cares for his customers, vendors, support people and staff, he demands excellence from himself and shares it among all. Tom is purposeful heart with soul....never in a pinch with Lynch, agreat communicator”
Joey Dalessio, Chief Business Catalyst, JoeyDalessio Business Solutions “I have known Tom for many years and he has always done his best for the locksmith and security industry. By listening to his peers he has developed many innovative solutions, addressed injustices, and fought against misguided government regulation, always with the best interests of those he represents.”
Eric Taylor, Safe Technician Locksmith, Fradon Lock Co., Inc. “Tom is a go getter, an innovator, someone who gets the job done. Tom has been willing to help with all my questions about business and strategy. Because of Tom I have been able to push my business to the next level. Tom and the SOPL are industry leaders and with that leadership the locksmith industry will improve. Thanks Tom.”
Robert Wood, Locksmith owner, New Mexico Locking Systems "Tom is a hard working professional that is dedicated to creating opportunities for his fellow SOPL members. His passion for the industry is evident in all his actions"
Keith Zettler, Technician at Long Island Locksmith and Automatic Doors "Building an organization requires perseverance, persistence and passion. Tom exhibits all three in anything he does, especially building the Society of Professional Locksmiths. We are living in an era where many people are comfortable leaving the heavy lifting to others - Not Tom. He is to be commended for his efforts to elevate his colleagues."
Mark Berger President & Chief Product Officer, Securitech Group, Inc |