Every day, across homes, businesses, schools, and communities, properly installed electronic security and life safety systems help to save lives and safeguard property. Behind every one of these systems is a trained technician —ensuring that the technology works when it’s needed most.Shaping the Future of Technician Training

Highly-skilled technicians don’t just pull wire or mount devices. They understand the science behind how systems communicate, detect, and respond. Their vital work ensures fire alarms activate when seconds count and intrusion systems alert before harm can occur.  ESA CAT Level 1 Revamp 

To ensure that ESA certified technicians continue to be leaders in this mission, the Association has devoted hundreds of hours throughout the past year updating, elevating, and enhancing its Certified Alarm Technician 1 education — the gold standard in foundational technician training. 

The effort would not be possible without the subject matter experts who generously volunteer their time, knowledge, and passion to support the initiative. 

These contributors—technicians, integrators, manufacturers, educators, and public safety partners—bring decades of combined experience to the effort.  

They have reviewed lessons, refined technical examples, ensured accuracy, and elevated the training to meet the real-world needs of today’s electronic security and life safety professionals. 

Their commitment to raising the bar for technician education ensures that every graduate of the new CAT Level 1 course enters the field prepared, confident, and equipped to protect lives and property with excellence. Shaping the Future of Technician Training

When we set out to modernize and elevate our Certified Alarm Technician—Level 1 (CAT 1) training, we knew it would take more than technical accuracy—it would take people who care deeply about the craft and the professionals behind it. One such professional is Diana M. Lettkeman, Program Manager of Licensing and Training at DISH Network Service. 

Diana brought her expertise, professionalism, and passion for technician development to every stage of this ambitious project — and is the primary subject matter expert for several new modules in development, including “Rack Installation and Organization Fundamentals” and “Principles of Wireless Technology.” 

Her insights have helped bridge classroom concepts with the realities of the field—ensuring that learners not only understand the what of system installation and service, but also the why behind doing it right. 

Those who’ve worked with Diana know she has a rare ability to see both the technical and human sides of training. She reminds us that great technicians aren’t just skilled with tools and technology—they’re ambassadors of trust, safety, and customer care.

Diana was certified as an ESA Level 1 Certified Alarm Technician in 1986 — and has since earned each of ESA’s advanced certifications. 

“I have been training technicians for over 40 years,” says Lettkeman. “It’s really what drives me. I have always focused on making things easier for our partners in the field.” 

Her impressive resume includes a 25+ year tenure at DISH, licensure in over 20 states (holding multiple licenses in some) and patents for over 14 distinct devices (some with multiple continuations) she’s designed to assist technicians in the field. 

“I want the workforce of the future to be prepared for whatever they may encounter in the field,” she says. 

The ESA team is deeply grateful for volunteers, like Diana, whose dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to raising the bar for technician education industry-wide is contagious. 

ESA would like to thank all the volunteers for sharing their time and expertise so generously to strengthen a course that will prepare thousands of professionals to protect lives and livelihoods for years to come.