SDI Employee Spotlight – Kevin Whitney

Meet Kevin Whitney, SDI’s dynamic VP of Aviation & Physical Security Technology. Kevin leads SDI’s Aviation division, spearheading sales activities and showcasing SDI’s exceptional capabilities to prospective clients and partners. Outside the office, Kevin loves fermenting various beverages, exploring new eateries, and cheering on his son, an avid golfer. And, of course, you’ll often find him roaring with enthusiasm for the Chicago Bears. 

Kevin, please tell us about your current role and responsibilities. 

I currently lead sales activities for our Aviation unit. I work with prospective clients, vendors, and partners to promote SDI’s capabilities and share how SDI can provide value to our customers.  

What attracted you to SDI, and what has your journey with the company been like so far? 

I’ve grown with SDI. Originally, I was brought in to help manage the Emergency Dispatch Application and grow the Geographic Information System (GIS) at a client site. I rose through the ranks fairly quickly and managed the entire project for more than six years. I had a short stint leading the delivery of services for all of SDI’s aviation business, then pivoted in 2024 to take on a sales role.  

How has physical security technology evolved since you started your career? 

Security has become more focused and digital. We’ve moved from analog to digital and from disparate systems to integrated systems.  

What innovative technologies or trends in physical security are you most excited about? 

Artificial Intelligence (AI)–there are so many creative and useful ways to utilize AI in Security. Perimeter detection and reviewing access control alarms are just two of the many use cases to enhance security.  

How do you stay current with the latest trends and advancements? 

I attend industry events–including conferences. I read blogs and consistently research companies and solutions. 

What sets SDI apart? 

SDI believes in mentoring and organically growing our team. As the company grows, employees have opportunities to gain new skills and responsibilities.  

Who has been a major influence or mentor in your life and career, and why? 

There have been a few at SDI including Erin Manning and Mark Raffel. Both have provided opportunities for me to grow and take on new challenges. 

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?  

Never stop learning.  

What’s the best professional advice you’ve been given? 

Never stop learning. If you are not learning, you’re falling behind someone else. Knowledge, skill, and discipline are what set great employees apart from average employees.  

Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy? 

I ferment things (beer, cider, seltzer, pizza) and listen to as much music as possible.  

How do you like to spend your weekends or free time to unwind and recharge? 

I try and watch as much of my son’s golf as much as possible. If I’m not watching golf, you’ll find me exploring restaurants, breweries, music, and rooting for the Chicago Bears.  

If you have any aviation or physical security technology needs, contact Kevin Whitney and the SDI team to discover how our expertise can elevate your security solutions! 

We celebrate diversity; the views expressed above are those of the interviewed individual, not SDI.