What I’ve Observed in the Executive Protection Industry

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What I’ve Observed in the Executive Protection Industry

During my tenure as a Military Police Officer, I was always drawn to the idea of being part of a Personal Security Detail (PSD) team, tasked with protecting VIP officers and dignitaries. Although I didn’t attend the official PSD school, I had the privilege of learning directly from experienced PSD personnel and participated in several meaningful assignments. One such highlight was meeting retired General James Mattis during his visit to Fort Greely.

Driven by my passion, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Strategic Security and Protection Management and read nearly every book I could find on executive protection. I also became a certified firearms and police instructor, eventually building a business that allowed me to teach across the state. My ultimate goal? To become a dedicated executive protection specialist.

The Harsh Realities of Breaking into the Industry

When I started applying for executive protection roles, I encountered several challenges that no one had warned me about. Most positions required “actual” experience on protection details—a classic Catch-22 for newcomers. Many employers also demanded certifications from accredited academies that are well-known in the industry but not easily accessible to everyone. Some even preferred candidates with elite military backgrounds, like Navy SEALs or Tier 1 operators.

Undeterred, I pursued advanced training and earned a master’s degree in Strategic Security and Protection Management. I attended courses offered by multiple executive protection academies, spending nearly $20,000 in total. To my surprise, much of what I learned during these courses didn’t align with my formal education or the content of the books I had studied. This raised a question: What exactly was I paying for?

The Reality Behind Training Programs

The answer I found was simple: networking. The courses often focused on building connections rather than equipping students with actionable skills. While I was advised to work on “hard skills” to complement my “soft skills” from formal education, I realized that much of what these programs offered paled in comparison to the training I had already received in the military or through more affordable classes.

Although I met fascinating individuals through these programs, the truth remains that the industry is heavily reliant on credentials, licenses, and connections. For instance, to work in executive protection, you need an armed security guard license for nearly every state you intend to operate in—a logistical and financial hurdle in itself.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Executive Protection Specialists

Looking back, my journey has been both enlightening and humbling. I haven’t yet landed the “dream job” that many associate with executive protection, but I’ve gained invaluable insights and met some remarkable people along the way.

For those considering a career in this field, here’s my advice:

1. Do your research: Understand the certifications, licenses, and experiences required before investing time and money.
2. Build your network: Attend conferences, meetups, and industry events to connect with professionals who can open doors.
3. Evaluate training programs carefully: Not all academies offer the value they advertise. Compare costs, curriculums, and alumni success stories.
4. Hone both hard and soft skills: While formal education is essential, practical experience and specialized skills are equally critical.

Executive protection is a demanding yet rewarding industry, but it’s not without its challenges. Make sure you know what you’re getting into and align your efforts with your ultimate goals.