At Security 101 in Northern California, our strength comes from the people behind the systems. In this edition of our Team Member Spotlight, we’re proud to feature Derek Kahoalii, a seasoned Project Manager whose passion for protecting Bay Area businesses runs deep and local.
With over 25 years in the commercial security industry, Derek has led large-scale operations and managed national accounts at some of California’s most respected firms.
In his current role at Security 101 – San Jose, Derek oversees the design, installation, and service of integrated security systems for some of our largest and most complex clients. Known for his technical depth, calm leadership, and customer-first mindset, he plays a vital role in delivering solutions that keep our clients safe and operations running smoothly.
Explore Derek’s path and the role he plays in protecting Bay Area businesses.
Fast Facts: Meet Derek
- Location: San Jose, CA
- Years in security: 29
- Role: Project Manager, Security 101 – San Jose
- Expertise: Commercial installations, UL compliance, system integration
- Specialty areas: Access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection
- Favorite local spot: Mountain Lakes (especially with the grandkids)
Decades of Trusted Experience in San Jose
Derek began his career in 1996 during the rapid growth of the Bay Area’s tech sector, a pivotal time for commercial infrastructure and electronic security.
| “The tech world was booming in the San Francisco Bay Area, and I wanted to be part of something that was growing and impactful,” Derek recalls. |
His journey spans nearly three decades, and he’s developed deep technical expertise across intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance systems.
As Operations Manager at SSD Alarm and Installation Supervisor at Protection One and Protection Service Industries, he led large-scale installations, maintained UL compliance, and streamlined inventory control, experience that continues to shape his work at Security 101.
| “Each company I’ve worked with had a different focus, and that shaped how I manage projects today,” he explains. “It’s all about attention to detail, client collaboration, and ensuring systems perform as expected.” |
Managing Projects with Precision Across Northern California
In his current role at Security 101 – San Jose, Derek oversees complex projects from start to finish, serving businesses across San Jose, Santa Clara County, and the wider Northern California region.
| “Mornings are my favorite part,” Derek says. “I connect with our technicians to ensure they have what they need to meet the day’s goals. Then it’s full-on with project coordination and customer support.” |
His formula for successful installations:
- Upfront communication
- Clear scheduling and subcontractor coordination
- Follow-up after project completion
| “When customers know they can trust us to deliver—on time and with care—that’s what sets us apart in the competitive San Jose market,” he adds. |
That dedication to precision takes on even greater meaning when the work directly supports the community he’s called home his entire life.
Rooted in San Jose, Proud to Protect Local Businesses
As a San Jose native and Andrew Hill High School graduate, Derek brings a hometown perspective to every commercial property he helps protect.
| “It feels great to install security systems in the same city where I grew up,” he says. “Knowing we’re helping local businesses operate safely and confidently? That’s hard to beat.” |
Every project in San Jose and the South Bay holds personal meaning for him, not just because it’s home, but because each installation represents a direct investment in the safety and resilience of the local business community.
| “They’re all meaningful. Each install is different—and every completion is a win for the customer and the community.” |
From startups to well-established enterprises, Derek approaches every project with a commitment to quality and pride in supporting the region’s growth.
Staying Ahead in the Silicon Valley Security Industry
Serving clients in Silicon Valley means staying on top of fast-moving innovation in physical security. Businesses in this region often lead the charge in adopting cutting-edge solutions, making it essential to anticipate trends and deliver future-ready systems that align with their growth and compliance needs.
| “We’re seeing a major leap in technology,” Derek says. “Clients in San Jose and Northern California want smarter, more connected solutions—from cloud-based access control to AI-powered surveillance.” |
Derek and the team stay ahead with:
- Manufacturer-led training sessions
- Regular industry updates and certifications
- Hands-on experience with the latest technologies
| “We’re not just meeting expectations—we’re helping customers take full advantage of what modern security can do.” |
Advice for San Jose Security Decision Makers
Derek’s top advice for local business owners evaluating a security upgrade?
| “Start by identifying what your current system does well—and where it falls short. Then design around your actual risks and needs. A solid plan is the foundation of a reliable system.” |
This guidance is especially relevant for businesses operating in San Jose’s tech campuses, industrial zones, and expanding retail corridors, where operational continuity, data protection, and compliance are daily priorities.
Whether facing increased foot traffic, managing sensitive assets, or transitioning to hybrid access models, businesses benefit from security systems that are purpose-built, not just patched together.
From Derek’s experience, a proactive assessment can uncover gaps before they become costly vulnerabilities.
TEAM101 Culture That Supports Success
Derek attributes much of his success in the field to the supportive, team-oriented culture he’s found within the Security 101 Northern California branch. Surrounded by professionals who collaborate seamlessly, from field techs to senior leadership, he’s able to stay focused on delivering exceptional service.
| “The people I work with truly feel like family,” he says. “Everyone supports one another, and management is always ready to help us overcome obstacles. That’s why we consistently deliver excellent customer service, especially in demanding environments like San Jose.” |
It’s a work environment where people step up for one another, and challenges are met with solutions, not roadblocks.
Life Beyond Security
When he’s not coordinating commercial security projects across the Bay Area, Derek spends time outdoors with his loved ones.
| “I enjoy being with my family, especially my grandkids. Trips to Mountain Lakes are a favorite—it’s where I really recharge.” |
Whether it’s a weekend escape or a peaceful afternoon by the water, Derek values the kind of downtime that keeps him grounded and focused. That balance between professional dedication and personal fulfillment reflects the same steady, thoughtful approach he brings to every project.
It’s this mindset that makes Derek more than a skilled project manager. He’s a trusted partner to Security 101 – Northern California clients, a dependable teammate, and a respected leader within the San Jose security community.
Hear it from an expert
Looking for expert advice from a local team that understands your security needs?
Robert Chamberlin
Rob Chamberlin is the founder and President of Security 101 – San Francisco Bay Area & Sacramento. Security 101 offers a full range of commercial security professional services to its business customers and helps to protect its client's people, ...