THE SECURITY OFFICER OF THE FUTURE

Jun 1, 2008 12:00 PM, By J. Michael Coleman

Push aside old notions of low-skilled security officers. The security officer of the future has arrived. Today's security officer may be using a Segway to patrol airports, transit stations, manufacturing facilities, shopping malls and campuses. With the advent of the broadband revolution, you may find today's highly skilled and trained security officer piloting control panels that one would expect to see on a space shuttle, with a host of IP-connected digital applications that include closed-circuit television (CCTV), life and fire safety systems and remote online access control systems.

Additionally, post-9/11 officers use advanced integrated security solutions based on trace detection equipment and X-ray screening systems. These systems, managed by trained officers, help safeguard those on the front line and the public at large, protecting buildings and transportation systems, and screening everything from a ticket to a truck.

As the security officer and the security industry continues to evolve, integration is the “buzzword du jour” with increasingly complex and disparate systems being integrated on a single platform.

Creating a security solution in which all of the pieces work together is essential to creating a safe and secure environment regardless of how simple or complex the security picture is. Today's officers are a critical piece of the security puzzle and often our first line of defense against many threats. We must continue to be proactive about developing programs and solutions that can help them perform at their best.

The security officer of the future brings a whole new set of considerations for the end-user. The property manager or security director making the security decisions should now view the security officer as a professional employee. An average wage and clean uniform are no longer enough. Today's officers receive competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and award-winning training.

The relationship with law enforcement has also progressed as well. Today's security officers work in conjunction with police officers. Many locations benefit from a mix of security and law enforcement officers.

Equipped with computer skills and security training, today's security officer is not complacent. Rather, he or she is technologically savvy and committed to continual training. The security officer of the future is working at your facility today. Security officers are our first line of defense and work tirelessly for our protection. Behind the public face of the security officer lives an expertly prepared and ever vigilant security professional who is well-trained and supported by cutting edge, integrated technology.

J. Michael Coleman is vice president, commercial real estate for AlliedBarton Security Services in Philadelphia. He also serves as chair of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International's National Associate Member Committee and a member of the Preparedness SIG. He has more than 28 years experience in the security service industry. He can be reached at mike.coleman@alliedbarton.com

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