From Locks to Alarms: Grandma Phyllis’ Legacy Lives On

Long before we became Advanced Alarm Technologies, we were known around town as Pridgen Lock & Safe—a trusted name in locksmithing. And it all started with one determined woman: Grandma Phyllis.

On November 28, 1977, Phyllis Pridgen earned her certification in Professional Locksmithing from the Locksmithing Institute in Little Falls, New Jersey. Licensed by the state and backed by grit, smarts, and an unmatched work ethic, Grandma Phyllis stepped into a trade that, back then, didn’t have many women in it. But that didn’t slow her down—not one bit.

That original diploma still hangs on our wall, proudly displayed. It’s more than just a piece of paper—it’s a piece of our family history and the foundation this business was built on.

As the years passed, Pridgen Lock & Safe evolved with the times. What started with keys, safes, and door hardware has grown into something much bigger. Today, as Advanced Alarm Technologies, we offer full-service security—from surveillance systems and alarm monitoring to access control and smart tech integration.

But through all that growth, one thing hasn’t changed: the values Grandma Phyllis instilled in us. Honesty, hard work, and protecting what matters.

We might use new tools today, but the heart of our business is still the same. We’re proud to carry on Grandma Phyllis’ legacy—one lock, one system, and one family at a time.