At Signal, we’re proud to recognize franchise owners who live out our values, build strong teams, and make a lasting impact in their communities. Signal of Eastern PA, led by Bill Kotowski, is a standout example. With a background in emergency services, Bill leads with clarity, heart, and resilience—qualities that continue to shape the success of his franchise and the safety of those they serve.
A Career That Started with a Calling
Before becoming a Signal franchise owner, Bill Kotowski spent 27 years in emergency services. He worked as an EMT, a reserve police officer, a paramedic, and ultimately a registered nurse. Security started as a side pursuit—but it soon turned into a calling. His first shift involved driving a beat-up retired police car and collecting alcohol from underage drinkers at a concert in 1992. “I kind of fell into it,” he says. But it stuck.
In 2019, Bill purchased the company he had worked for. Just five months later, he made the decision to transition to Signal. “Mom-and-pop operations like ours were getting squeezed out,” Bill recalls. “We had already lost out on a major contract because we didn’t have national support. That’s when I knew we needed a partner like Signal.”
From the start, Bill led with transparency. He kept his team informed and leaned into the opportunity. “We ripped the Band-Aid off,” he says. “The onboarding process was incredibly supportive. When I came to Omaha to sign the Franchise Agreement, Reed was hands-on. That level of leadership set the tone for everything that followed.”
A Team Built to Scale
Today, Signal of Eastern PA serves a diverse portfolio of clients—offering patrol services, dedicated sites, and even mine safety training, serving the cold storage, logistics, heavy industrial and manufacturing, multi-family, event venue and hospitality verticals.
But what truly defines Bill’s success isn’t just the accounts—it’s the team behind them. His leadership bench includes Paul Kennedy, Executive Director, and Rebecca Gonzalez, Director of Human Resources—both of whom play an essential role in driving growth, operational strength, and a healthy, people-first culture.
Paul brings strategic oversight and leadership to day-to-day operations, while Rebecca leads the charge on employee experience and organizational development. Together, this team has helped turn Signal of Eastern PA into a market leader and a standout within the network.
Bill invests in developing talent across all levels of the organization. He hosts quarterly management summits and empowers team members to step into leadership roles. Internal success stories like Casey Sage, Bryce Gonzalez, and Dream Chase are a reflection of that commitment.
“We believe in looking through the windshield, not the rearview mirror,” Bill says. “We stay focused on what’s ahead.”
Stronger with Signal
Bill credits the Home Office and the broader Signal network for helping him build a business that scales without losing its soul.
“SPI training, Summits, Convention—those tools are invaluable. But more than that, it’s the peer connections. Learning from other franchisees has helped us strengthen our operations, avoid pitfalls, and keep improving.”
Signal of Eastern PA actively participates in pilot programs and continues to contribute to the growth of the network as a whole. “One team, one voice, one mission” isn’t just a phrase for Bill—it’s how his team shows up every day.
Doing Business the Right Way
For Bill, being a business owner means more than hitting revenue milestones.
“I always wanted to own something that allowed me to serve people and do it the right way. With Signal, I’ve been able to create a business that takes care of our team and makes a difference in the community. That’s something I’m really proud of.”
Congratulations, Signal of Eastern PA
We’re proud to spotlight Bill Kotowski, Paul Kennedy, Rebecca Gonzalez, and the entire team at Signal of Eastern PA. Your integrity, leadership, and mission-driven approach represent the very best of Signal.
Inspired by their story?
If you’re ready to lead a business that combines purpose with performance, Signal may be the right fit. Whether your background is in EMS, law enforcement, military service, or business leadership—if you care about protecting others, we’ll help you build something that matters. Start your journey with Signal today.
