The security industry is becoming ubiquitous with other technical-based professions. The work performed by today’s security field and service technicians involves common knowledge and skills that could easily fit within a Venn diagram including electrical engineering, information technology (IT) and construction management; however, unlike these well-established professions, the security industry lacks defined training and education pathways for roles with similar competency requirements. What has long been a vacant opportunity for adult education in technical occupations is now being addressed at a national level through the expansion of apprenticeship programs.
For example, the Security Industry Association (SIA) recently announced it is developing a new apprenticeship program to help address the security industry’s workforce challenges, diversify the talent pipeline and foster career development opportunities within the industry. This program was created in response to the growing demand for a highly skilled workforce — with finding and attracting qualified talent remaining one of the security industry’s top challenges — as well as the changing landscape of the physical security industry.