TACC, ELF, and ALOA Announce Key Partnership

The Access Control Collective (TACC), the European Locksmith Federation (ELF), and the ALOA Security Professionals Association are partnering to strengthen connections across the physical security ecosystem and support shared learning across roles, disciplines, and regions, both in person and online.

“This partnership represents exactly where our industry is headed — and where it needs to go,” says ALOA President Wayne Winton. “Locksmiths have always been the trusted link between people, doors, and security. What’s changing is the technology around that responsibility. Mechanical skill alone is no longer enough; today’s professionals must also understand electronic access, digital credentials, system design, and long-term lifecycle support. This partnership with The Access Control Collective and the European Locksmith Federation helps ensure our members are not only aware of that shift — but prepared to lead it.”

The partnership offers free participation for ELF and ALOA member locksmiths, allowing them to:

·         Connect into The PhySec Collective, TACC’s online community for the global physical security industry.

·         Expand exposure to access control, electronic locking, and life safety conversations shaping the market.

·         Create opportunities for cross-industry discussions, shared learning, and practical education.

·         Help members prepare for the ongoing shift from mechanical to electronic and digital access.

For TACC and its members:

·         Brings deeper global locksmith expertise into the community

·         Strengthens conversations around design, specification, installation, and long term outcomes

·         Adds real world perspective that directly influences security decisions

·         Ensures locksmith voices remain part of how the future of physical security is shaped

What’s included:

·         TACC engagement at ELF and ALOA events.

·         Community access for ELF and ALOA members within The PhySec Collective.

·         Partner led discussions and shared insight

·         Opportunities for co-created content and selective programming

·         Private channel for ELF and ALOA members

Why This Partnership Matters Now 

“While other legacy segments of our industry are losing relevance, locksmiths continue to play a critical role by connecting people, doors, and trust. That role is not diminishing. It is expanding,” says Lee Odess, founder of TACC. “As electronic and digital access accelerate, locksmiths become more essential, not less. This partnership is about giving them a stronger voice, better access to knowledge, and a true seat at the table as our industry evolves.”

Dave O’Toole, president, European Locksmith Federation and International Director, ALOA, adds: “Electronic locking and digital access are reshaping our industry and creating both challenges and opportunities for locksmiths. Through this partnership, our members gain access to a global community, practical insight, and meaningful discussion that supports real skills development and long-term business growth.”

As Odess, O’Toole and Winton point out, the mechanical master key is being replaced by digital alternatives, as end users continue to embrace electronic access control options such as smart deadbolts and wireless locks to mobile credentials and cloud managed access, While this shift may reduce some traditional revenue, they note that it also creates new opportunities in system design, installation, service, and recurring revenue models. Clients increasingly expect their locksmiths to support these solutions, and this partnership helps members meet those expectations with confidence.

“What excites me most is that this collaboration keeps locksmiths at the table as decisions are being made about the future of physical security,” says Winton, who notes that ALOA’s mission has always been education, professionalism, and advancing the trade. “It amplifies real-world experience, practical insight, and the voice of working professionals who install, service, and maintain these systems every day. By expanding global collaboration and opening doors to shared learning across disciplines, we are giving our members tools to grow their skills, expand their businesses, and remain indispensable in a rapidly evolving market. This isn’t about replacing locksmiths – it’s about reinforcing their role — and positioning them for long-term success.”

What’s Next 

As part of this partnership, Lee Odess will speak at the ALOA 2026 Convention in June on the key trends reshaping the security and access control industry and what they mean for locksmiths and security professionals.

ELF and ALOA members interested in joining The PhySec Collective can complete this form and will be added shortly after submission.