Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Reger
Hi Anna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey to founding FlipLok started with a very personal experience that exposed a serious gap in security. After a terrifying incident where an active threat came too close to my family, I was shocked to find that the safety of our door was uncertain. This unsettling moment led my husband John and me to take a hard look at campus security, only to uncover significant flaws and a troubling lack of effective solutions. Determined to make a difference and grounded in my strong family values, I developed FlipLok—a security device specifically designed to address these shortcomings and provide reliable protection in schools and public spaces.
Beyond my work as an entrepreneur, I am deeply committed to humanitarian efforts and community service. I proudly serve on several prominent boards, including the AVDA Board (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse), the Houston Children’s Charity Board, and the Greater Houston Partnership’s Public Education Advisory Committee. My dedication to giving back was honored with the John Connor Humanitarian Award from Operation Smile in October 2022. Whether it’s ending hunger, raising safety awareness, or supporting causes for special needs, I am driven by a deep sense of responsibility and humility in everything I do.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road hasn’t always been smooth for me. Growing up in one of Houston’s poorest neighborhoods and surviving serious injuries from multiple car accidents were significant challenges I faced early in life. These obstacles could have easily derailed my aspirations, but I was determined to push through. I worked hard to earn my GED and later, a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston.
My entrepreneurial journey has had its own set of challenges. Launching and growing a business, especially FlipLok, was not without its difficulties. However, my unwavering commitment to safety and innovation drove me to transform FlipLok from a school safety solution into a versatile product that can be used in various settings. Overcoming these hurdles, along with my dedication to humanitarian causes, has only strengthened my resolve and ability to turn adversity into opportunity.
We’ve been impressed with FlipLok, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
FlipLok LLC, was founded in 2021, and we are proudly a woman-owned business headquartered in Houston, Texas. Driven by my concern as a mother of six and a caregiver to younger siblings growing up, I established FlipLok and developed a protective, sturdy hinge lock designed to safeguard society’s most vulnerable. Our mission is to develop a fortified device that protects families, students, and companies from threats to their well-being. When seconds count, the Fliplok can be activated in 0.5 seconds, the mechanism is designed to flip down and lock automatically with no additional effort required, and strength tested to 2,000lbs. Our commitment to safety extends beyond the lock itself; we also provide advanced security films, such as 3M ULTRA 800, to enhance protection by binding shattered glass fragments and preventing injury or property damage. The FlipLok is available in emergency red, seamlessly aligning with safety devices like exit signs and fire extinguishers. I wanted our products to integrate with existing security systems, ensuring a cohesive and efficient security infrastructure. Additionally, we developed a unique siren to alert individuals of imminent threats, enhancing overall safety. While our primary focus has been on schools, we have also extended our innovative solutions to residential communities, furthering our goal of enhancing safety for all. We offer an inward swinging lock, and outward swinging lock for our residential solutions that are strength tested to 1,670 lbs. I believe we deserve to let our guard down when we get home, especially after the craziness of a long day. Whether you’ve given someone a spare key, or your building manager has access to your apartment, the FlipLok ensures no threat can open your door. While developing the FlipLock I remain committed to providing cutting-edge security solutions that work even during a power outage to provide those most vulnerable with peace of mind.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is playing outside with my siblings. We spent hours making mud pies and catching frogs, enjoying the fun of being outdoors. I also loved when my dad taught us how to ride a bike. His patience and support as we learned are moments I’ll always cherish. These simple times were filled with joy and adventure, making them unforgettable.
Pricing:
- Residential Inward Lock (Silver, Black, and Bronze) 39.95
- Residential Outward Lock (Silver and Black) 79.95
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fliplok.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fliplokofficial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlipLokOfficial/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK3lrIo_qhSfB1khoswVYVQ
Image Credits
Anna Reger
