Where are the growth areas in the security industry?

Principal growth occurs in several key areas:

• Corporations
  
• Critical infrastructure
  
• Overseas markets
  
• Governmental entities (local, state, and federal)
  
• Private Military Companies (PMCs)

Corporations continue to turn to technology – and those who have expertise in that technology – to implement first-class security operations. Spending is on the rise as corporations take advantage of new advances in digital video, biometrics and other technologies.

Legislation may provide another boost to the industry. Mandates are either in place or under review regarding additional security for chemical and petroleum facilities and other critical infrastructure sites.

Another major growth area is in countries such as China, India, Korea, and, of course, the Middle East.

Finally, due to massive force reductions in the uniformed military services of Western nations at the end of the Cold War, the current Global War on Terror has placed many military security responsibilities in the hands of private security contractors.

Which security positions are in high demand?

The principle employment opportunities include training indigenous forces, executive protection services, and general security-related duties formerly associated with uniformed armed forces. There are also opportunities to consult with security and law enforcement agencies in those same areas as well as facility design and construction.

It is important to remember that many lucrative security positions are not formally advertised. They are earned through networking and other contacts.

Can you provide information about specific positions in network security? What can I expect to earn?

Generally, security management positions offer a good starting salary and opportunities to advance. For example, a security architect’s salary ranges from about $70,000 to about $150,000, depending on experience, location and other factors. A network intrusion detection specialist can earn between $60,000 to more than $100,000. An information assurance trainer can earn between $50,000 and $90,000. Keep in mind that many of these positions require at least an undergraduate degree and often require professional certifications.

What are the opportunities in the executive protection arena?

Executive protection operations are a fertile field for security professionals with the optimal mix of formal education, experience, and networked contacts. Gone are the days of “bodyguards.” The modern executive protection professional must be well traveled, well educated, and able to move in the social circles of a society in which most principals (the persons being protected) live and work.

Most modern executive protection professionals have a bachelor’s degree in a related field and many have a master’s degree. The security management master’s program at American Military University is among the nation’s top higher education programs. The program is “tailor-made” for the security professional. In addition, the networked contacts may prove extremely valuable when seeking a position in executive protection.

I would like to reach an executive level position. What qualities can help me earn a chief security officer position?

Many chief executive officers look for a Chief Security Officer (CSO) with a background that establishes broad security competency, but also allows them to move unobtrusively and easily in the circles of senior management. The CSO should be well educated, conversant in a number of areas such as politics, the arts, sports, etc. You will also have an advantage if you are proficient in a foreign language. Perhaps, most importantly, the CSO must understand business and the vision of the firm in question.

How important is having a security clearance?

A validated clearance is highly marketable in the security world today. Many firms contract with the government and require personnel with security clearances. Fortunately, security personnel leaving military service already have this vetted security clearance at some level of authorization.

I am interested in starting my own security firm. How can I prepare to do that?

Establishing oneself as a security consultant takes skill, networked contacts, and a slow process of building your reputation. I recommend you read one or more of the following books:

• Security Consulting for the 21st Century Consultant, by Kelly E. Riddle
  
• Security Consulting by Charles Sennewald

I also encourage you to become active in professional organizations, such as ASIS International, the International Association of Professional Security Consultants, and the American College of Forensic Examiners International.

Also, check out industry blogs – such as this blog on jobs for those with security clearance -- for networking opportunities.

I cannot over-emphasize the importance of networking. Remember, a contact with which you do not occasionally “touch base” often becomes useless. Stay in touch!

How can I be successful, for the long term?

Long-term success stems from a combination of factors, such as the correct mix of formal education, experience, networked contacts, and sustained excellent performance. Success in the 21st century also entails a firm understanding of change as a constant in our lives.

Jeffrey T. Fowler, CPS, CHS-III, is program manager for security management at American Military University.

He is also the Director at Osprey Protective Services, Inc., which provides security consulting in the areas of risk management, threat assessment and workplace violence. He is a certified Army historian and author of the book, Axis Cavalry in WWII. He writes frequently on security and terrorism-related issues as well as presents at national workshops on homeland security topics.