At Signal, we’re proud to recognize franchise owners who embody the values of leadership, accountability, and service in every community they touch. For our Franchise of the Month, we’re celebrating Signal of South Dakota, led by owners Wes and Weston Smith – a dynamic father-son team whose footprint extends far beyond South Dakota. Together, they own and operate territories spanning South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Northwestern Minnesota – a vast region where their approach to security is as strong and steady as the landscapes they serve.
Their story is one of resilience, high standards, and a “can-do” mindset that inspires both their officers and the clients who depend on them.
A Family Team with a Shared Mission
Wes and Weston bring two generations of leadership to Signal. Wes, the father, first became involved with the business in Montana. Weston, already an entrepreneur running other successful companies, joined later. Together, they’ve built not just a franchise but a family-driven operation spanning five states.
“Working together as father and son comes naturally for us, “Weston explains. “I handle all operational oversight, sales, and administrative functions not covered by our coordinators, while Wes focuses on maintaining long-standing client relationships and traveling between offices to provide on-site leadership. We balance each other well – I drive efficiency and profitability, but I can get caught up in the daily fires; Wes brings the calm, steady demeanor that only decades of experience can provide, whether it’s reassuring clients or helping people better understand and appreciate the important role our officers play.”
Meeting Challenges Head-On
Managing territories spread across five states comes with no shortage of challenges. Staffing shortages, sudden client needs, and geographic hurdles are all part of their daily reality. But Wes and Weston have built a culture where accountability is non-negotiable, and that clarity empowers their people.
“We never say ‘we can’t do it.’ We’ll say yes and figure it out while running,” they explain.
That “can-do” mindset shows up daily, whether it’s covering new contracts with little notice, responding to emergency calls, or rallying staff to take on overtime until the team is stabilized. Officers know the standard: show up at the right place, right time, in the right uniform, do the job as trained, and do it with a good attitude.
One example that captures their approach occurred when a major client in Wyoming urgently needed contraband-search services after a threat was made. The call came in at noon, while Wes and Weston were in Fargo, ND, and the client’s next shift began at 3 AM. With little time to prepare, they immediately began coordinating across multiple offices.
“Within two hours, we had teams mobilized across four states,” Weston shares. “Our Sioux Falls coordinator, Peter, had a patrol unit fueled, packed, and ready to roll; our Rapid City coordinator, Greg, prepped another vehicle and gear; and our Billings team – with no prior notice – hit the road for the eight-hour drive to Kemmerer, Wyoming.”
By the time the shift began, a full team was in place, and together they completed two full days of searches. The client was astonished by how quickly they responded and how smoothly the teams executed the mission – a perfect example of their promise to always “say yes and figure it out while running.”
Leadership that Scales
Over the past year, Signal of South Dakota achieved 26% year-over-year growth, building on already strong momentum. That success isn’t just about new contracts – it’s rooted in how Wes and Weston lead.
While their territories cover four sprawling states, the leadership team remains lean: Wes, Weston, and four Operations Coordinators. That close-knit structure keeps them hands-on, responsive, and deeply connected to the work on the ground.
Employees consistently commend them for being accessible, engaged, and supportive leaders. Their responsiveness, whether to staff, clients, or Home Office, sets the tone for the entire operation. They hold high standards, but they also mentor, coach, and create opportunities for others to step into leadership roles.
“Providing good-paying jobs to dozens of people so they can have a good life and provide for their families, and mentoring my leadership team,” Weston says, is one of the most rewarding parts of ownership.
Clients, meanwhile, see Wes and Weston as partners who deliver on promises with consistency and care. Across the Signal network, they’re recognized as franchise owners who demonstrate that strong leadership rooted in people is what drives lasting success.
Guided by Principles
Two guiding philosophies shape how Wes and Weston approach leadership.
The first is a quote from General George S. Patton:
“We herd sheep, we drive cattle, we lead people. Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way.”
The second is the U.S. Air Force Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
Both speak to their straightforward style. They expect high standards, they don’t shy away from tough calls, and they hold themselves accountable just as much as their teams.
Looking Ahead
As Wes and Weston continue to grow, their vision remains grounded in the same principles that got them here: accountability, excellence, and care for their people.
Their story is a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles or territories – it’s about setting high standards, backing them up with action, and building a team that believes in the mission.
Congratulations to Wes, Weston, and the entire Signal of South Dakota team. Your “can-do” attitude, steady leadership, and commitment to your people make you a standout within the Signal network.
