Executive Security Specialist
Executive Security Specialist
Let me tell you, without an ounce of doubt, that stepping into the world of executive security as an Executive Security Specialist demands nothing short of exceptional training. Reflecting on my time as Prince’s bodyguard, the wisdom I gleaned from seasoned professionals echoed unanimously: invest in your training.
This caliber of specialized training not only distinguishes you from those with mere military or police backgrounds but elevates you in this highly competitive field. Remember, appointing someone lacking professional training isn’t just a risk—it’s a potential liability.
Cast your mind back to an incident some years back, where a renowned basketball icon relied on his circle for protection. An altercation ensued, leading to untrained personnel causing harm and incurring significant financial and reputational damage. It’s a stark reminder that the role of an Executive Security Specialist is not to be underestimated.
Now, let’s set the record straight—when it comes to becoming a certified Executive Security Specialist, the path isn’t paved with official certifications like those you’d find in medical or legal professions.
There are no standardized tests or government-regulated benchmarks to clear. Some educational outfits might boast accreditation, teaching the nitty-gritty of licensing, firearms, and use-of-force laws. However, understand this: completing a program doesn’t bestow a universally recognized certification.
In the executive protection (EP) sphere within the U.S., such a regulatory body doesn’t exist. Those of us who are seasoned in the craft know this. The term “certified” often serves as a reassurance to potential employers or a marketing hook for newcomers rather than a reflection of regulated standards.
However, seeing a resume adorned with coursework from a reputable Executive Security Specialist training program does catch my eye. By reputable, I’m talking about programs helmed by individuals whose own careers in executive security are nothing short of exemplary.
These are the educators who bring real-world experience and expertise to the table. As we venture further into this discussion, I’ll share my top recommendations for Executive Security Specialist training programs, considering crucial factors like location, cost, coursework, and reputation.
That said, seeing Bodyguard Training from a reputable school on an individual’s resume is certainly meaningful. By reputable, I mean a bodyguard school that is run by individuals who themselves have stellar credentials and years of experience in the business. At the end of this post, you will find our top picks.
There are several important factors to consider when selecting an EPS training program.
- Location
- Price
- Coursework
- Reputation
Location
LOCATION
Thankfully, there are a few reputable schools that are now offering online courses because the expense of attending a school out of state is often prohibitive. If this is the field you want to pursue, you will most likely need to reside in a city where your services are needed because your first jobs will most likely NOT be long-term assignments traveling the world with a Rock Star or Rapper and living in hotels!
You will most likely be on short-term assignments, working in a small venue for one night for a political client. You could be asked to stand in for someone unavailable for an executive who needs to get safely to the airport.
A security company may want to hire you to do access control at the building entrance of a major corporation at first, or you may be asked to volunteer with a small team to protect the family of a CEO at a fundraising event.
The key is to position yourself where major corporations and their CEOs are based. It’s a fact that the segment of the population requiring Executive Protection (EP) services is affluent, and these wealthy individuals typically reside in metropolitan areas.
Let’s not forget the value of networking. The single best place to do networking is where you are obtaining your education. If you are taking an online course, you are not interacting personally with others or the instructors. There is some legitimate value to attending classes in person.
Money
PRICE
Do your homework. Compare prices of different programs. How many hours of training are you getting for the fees you are paying? Be smart about this- don’t fall for those organizations that make ridiculous promises. A new career for $1500 and 30 coursework hours is unrealistic.
A promise of a job upon completion of coursework is an outright lie. Be very careful–there is a “training program” out there that tells people they are a “certified executive protection specialist” upon completion of the program and then promotes a website where they post photos and contact information of their graduates so “their clients can look at their profile and hire them.”
This tactic serves as a ‘pitch’ to entice individuals into enrolling in their online courses. Subsequently, the business shuts down and reemerges a few months later under a new name, lacking any real connections to employers interested in their program’s graduates. Many people aspire to enter this field, and unfortunately, there are unscrupulous individuals exploiting the eagerness of these individuals to join the industry.
Ask to speak to alumni of these programs. Review the refund policy. Visit other websites and read blogs or boards to read what working professionals in the business have to say.
COURSEWORK
Again, compare the coursework of the various schools. Fifteen hours of coursework does NOT train you to be an EPS. That’s wishful thinking. A trained police officer or armed forces individual who has put hours upon hours into his or her training and has years of on-the-job experience finds it difficult to obtain work as an EPS. A handful of classes with Bodyguards-R-Us will not stack up. Again, only a handful of programs are considered legitimate (see list below).
REPUTATION
Word of Mouth is important in this line of business. While it’s true that not every individual will be happy 100% of the time with even the best of programs, the positive comments will outnumber the negative comments made by the public. You need to look at the big picture. Contact the Better Business Bureau before investing any money in an EPS training program.
Consider contacting the schools personally via telephone and asking questions. Ask to read the the instructors’ bios and complete course descriptions. Read about people with careers you admire and learn where THEY trained.
The simple fact is that you get out of your training whatever you put into it. It is not enough to passively take courses and think that upon completion you are going to land your dream EPS job!
It is your responsibility to network, prove your mettle, and develop a personality that will be appealing to employers. You must be diligent in your search for opportunities and creative in finding inroads into this profession. Develop a strategy to meet your goals. Develop relationships with key people in the field and be persistent in your pursuit.
Bodyguard Schools
Bodyguard Schools
At the outset, I mentioned that I would highlight schools deserving of your investment. Here are four notable recommendations, starting with our own institution:
Bodyguard Careers (BGC)
Unlock Your Potential in Executive Protection: Bodyguard Training EssentialsIn the current dynamic environment, the need for proficient executive bodyguards is on the rise, underscoring the importance of professional training.
Bodyguard Careers is committed to providing top-tier education, preparing you to safeguard VIPs, celebrities, and business leaders.
Our goal is to be recognized as the premier institution for aspiring executive protection specialists, offering a curriculum that covers all necessary skills and knowledge for success. Discover more about us and the journey of our founder, Hucky Austin, by visiting our website.
Why Opt for Our Training? Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, our courses are led by industry veterans Kevin Eckhoff and Harlan “Hucky” Austin. Focused on contemporary protection strategies, we cater to the evolving needs of executive security. At a cost of $1,150, our 4-day program is more than just training—it’s your entrance to a fulfilling career in executive protection.
Duration: 4 days Cost: $1,150
Executive Protection Institute (EPI)
Established in 1978, EPI is renowned for being “The first credential-ready executive protection training” program. It is among the most prestigious and competitive training opportunities, offering two 7-day courses annually in West Virginia.
Participants are taught incident prevention and management, emergency medical response, and effective communication with both clients and team members.
EPI emphasizes advanced planning and prevention, including defensive choreography and vigilance. After completing the program, graduates are eligible to seek credentials from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (VA DCJS) and the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
Duration: 7 days Cost: $3,990
LaSorsa and Associates
Joe LaSorsa, a former Secret Service agent, founded this program, which is instructed by current Secret Service professionals. The 9-day course is practical, focusing on intelligence operations, defense tactics, first aid, defensive driving, and route planning.
Upon completion, participants receive an online certificate, a First Aid certification, and the option for a protective arms certification.
Duration: 9 days Cost: $5,650 (includes accommodations and some meals)
For those looking to enhance their career in executive protection, the following resources may be invaluable:
