Degrees, experience and more…
There is no one clear path to the perfect job in the security management field. That’s the good news. Today’s professionals can combine military, law enforcement, corporate security experience, higher education and other life experiences to land a great position.
Security consultant Jeffrey Fowler, mentor for the security management degree program at American Military University, is frequently asked to share his thoughts on how professionals can get from here to there. Here are some words of advice gleaned from more than 30 years in the industry.
What kinds of backgrounds make the best transition to the security management field?
Traditionally, there are three paths for establishing a successful career in the security profession — military, law enforcement or entry-level corporate security. Military or law enforcement professionals often benefit from formal education and training as part of their service. They typically have years of experience and have held positions with much responsibility. The drawback for law enforcement professionals is that their experience is focused on crime prevention as opposed to loss prevention. It’s a fine distinction, but an important one. For example, a law enforcement professional is generally more concerned with an individual’s action, i.e., crime — as opposed to protecting an asset. In short, the prevention of loss entails the elimination or mitigation of loss from any cause, be it crime, poor work habits, or a flawed process. Crime prevention centers on apprehension and prosecution. The successful transition requires a willingness to switch to the broader focus required of a security professional.
Those professionals working as a front-line security officer can progress through the corporate security ranks to a position of authority. They must display the drive, initiative, an excellent performance, and a combination of informal and formal education and professional certifications, such as the Certified Protection Professional (CPP), awarded via examination by ASIS International. It can be a difficult path to follow because it requires much commitment. However, many professionals have begun their careers in this way.
What are the benefits of pursuing a security management degree rather than a traditional criminal justice degree?
It all comes down to your goals. If you aspire to a law enforcement career, then you definitely should pursue a criminal justice degree. If you are a career law enforcement professional, then, of course, a master’s degree in criminal justice is the goal.
Conversely, a degree in security management is the best option if you are seeking employment in corporate security, governmental agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security or the Transportation Security Administration, or with private security contractors engaged in security operations. If you are a corporate security professional seeking to advance, a master’s in security management helps you achieve your life goals and full potential within the profession.
It’s helpful to look at your current career, life experiences, formal and informal educational background and future goals in deciding your degree path. Think about where you want to be professionally in five years.
What can I expect in terms of job outlook and salaries for the security management vs. criminal justice careers?
Growth is expected for both disciplines – especially in the federal and government contracting arenas. Salaries for the two industries vary widely, based on the position, your qualifications, etc.
Will my military and/or civilian law enforcement experience prove useful in seeking professional security employment in the corporate sector or in civilian governmental service?
Yes, but you must approach the topic of your experience in a measured and practical manner. Certain agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, Defense Intelligence Agency, and the Pentagon Force Protection Agency, can understand your military experience. However, if you are seeking a private security position, such as with companies like IBM, Dell Computer or Sears, you may find the corporate culture far different in terms of professional language and knowledge.
Also, some elements of military and/or law enforcement experience do not correlate directly to the private sector. For example, you may have experience as an MP company commander, squad leader or platoon sergeant. Many civilian human resources personnel do not understand the considerable managerial and leadership attributes necessary to perform in these roles.
Be prepared to explain your experiences in terms which are readily understood by human resources. I suggest that you do this simple exercise to help you translate your experience for the private sector. Set up two columns on a sheet of paper or in an electronic document. In the left column, list your principal military responsibilities. In the right column, describe your military responsibilities in terms common to business. This process will provide good insights into how you should correlate official military duty descriptions into civilian terms.
Keep in mind, though, that there are many military-friendly employers who may understand your experience – and even seek out veterans.
What about a formal degree in security management? How will that prepare me for a position in corporate or government security management?
Certainly, an undergraduate or graduate degree in security management can help boost your qualifications. In many environments, such a degree is almost a requirement today. The security management program at American Military University offers a broad spectrum of security core courses. Elective courses expand your knowledge and marketability. The program’s goal is to build upon your other experience and prepare you for a management position.
Aside from the pure educational credentials, AMU security management students also network with others from a variety of careers, including law enforcement, corporate security and the military. Networking with students and faculty — and maintaining these relationships after graduation — may even help you find your “dream job.” This is especially true for the security management field because many excellent employment opportunities are often not formally advertised.
Will a security management degree help me obtain a security position, even if I don’t have security work experience?
Many positions require prior work experience. That’s why it is important to choose a degree program that provides a way to gain that experience. AMU’s degree program, for example, includes assignments and projects that provide you with “hands-on” experience. Students are encouraged to keep samples of their work in the field to demonstrate knowledge and experience to future employers. Potential employers will also evaluate the kinds of courses you completed as well as your grades. Of course, first-hand experience in the field is preferable, but hands-on practical exercises can help you achieve your goals.
Will a security management degree assist me in obtaining employment in a high-threat environment working with a Private Military Company (PMC) or a Private Security Company (PSC)?
Many employees of PMCs and PSCs transition into positions from relevant military backgrounds or from law enforcement. However, there are exceptions to this. In either case, the answer is that a security management degree from a reputable university, such as American Military University, ensures you are a more marketable commodity and may be a definite factor in your favor. For example, if two candidates of otherwise equal qualifications are seeking the same position with a PMC, and one has a security management degree and the other does not, it is quite possible that the graduate may be selected for the position.
Do security management degree programs address the “business” side of the security profession, such as budgeting and finance?
AMU’s security management degree program offers courses that discuss issues such as:
• Preparing, managing, and justifying a budget
• Preparation and presentation of budget requirements to senior management
• Types of budgets, specifically zero-based budgeting
• The impact of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act on finance and auditing processes
• The impact of sales, allocations, and grants on security operations
• Creation of a business plan
• Business continuity planning
• Financial risk analysis
Courses also address the fact that a properly designed security system must maintain fiscal integrity and justify the requirements of the particular venue. AMU’s program addresses other pertinent business issues, such as ethics. For example, global security operations must meet the regulatory requirements of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Case studies may also be used highlighting the responsibilities of the Chief Security Officer (CSO) in cases involving fraud and other white collar crimes.
How important are professional certifications to my career as a security professional?
Professional certifications and continuing professional education are important adjuncts to your formal education, professional experience and current training. ASIS International offers a variety of professional certifications (www.asisonline.org). The most prestigious is the CPP designation. The CPP is recognized and valued across the spectrum of corporate America as well as overseas.
It is also useful to become professionally board certified in homeland security. I recommend certification through the American College of Forensic Examiners International. After 9/11, they created a board certification program in homeland security.
It is also important to remain current regarding industry trends in your particular area of expertise. You can do this by attending professional seminars, courses, and online training opportunities.
I am retiring from the military or a military/government-related career and have a national security clearance. Will this help me when seeking employment in the security profession upon my retirement?
Your valid security clearance is an immensely valuable asset if you are seeking employment upon retirement with a federal agency, corporate security firm, or security contractor who works closely with the U.S. government.
