Instead of navigating through multiple menus, users can quickly toggle features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, Airplane Mode, and VPN / DNS settings with a tap. These shortcuts also shit off these services, unlike the buttons in the control center which may only disconnect temporarily. This setup is especially useful for frequent travelers or professionals who need to switch between different network modes quickly. You can add them to your home-screen for easy access. Here they are:

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Wireless On (all wireless on, airplane mode off)

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/6400b9ff8cdf4ab28e75894f2464cb84

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Wireless Off (all wireless off, airplane mode on)

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/e30daddb6c81405d81af08b8f8afad69

–

Bluetooth On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/de19d87031b84ccb8b1e69c1c0fced90

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Bluetooth Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/7c5c774f0abd465ba1074b70b172cf09

–

WiFi On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/a90a7c39148c4dd6a6b033908870788a

–

WiFi Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/649670ff5ea9483fa0e2b3ec28340ea3

–

Cellular On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/aece9c0796084a3c8e67104475b36cf1

–

Cellular Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/58126e8056fa4749b93778632e4f0462

–

Hotspot On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/f61e482faabf4aadbaa00f4187da9d00

–

Hotspot Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/7911c84482654187b62bc9f007b12bfe

–

Location Services Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/b1b8a911c52c4517802655e9ce85478c

–

VPN and DNS Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/14477fd88289492b92240d2455501e1c

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Screen Time Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/a3e933d024da4b07a57f9e99a6472af4

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See our Training Schedule here

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Consider pre-translating these words and phrases, but also consider what you are doing (your task or event) and where (hotel, restaurant, entertainment venue, etc.) to add some more things to this list:

• Hello
• Goodbye
• Yes
• No
• Please
• Thank you
• Good morning
• Good afternoon
• Good evening
• How are you?
• My name is ____
• What is your name?
• Nice to meet you
• Sorry / Excuse me
• Can you help me please?
• Do you speak English?
• Restroom / Bathroom / Toilet
• Left
• Right
• Straight
• Exit
• Numbers 1-10

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Bonus tip – when you translate these, use a translator app that pronounces the words for your as well.

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Also, for work but also for personal travel, I recommend pre-translating the words your will need in an emergency. Here are some considerations:

• Emergency:
• Intersection:
• Ambulance:
• Hospital:
• Police:
• Fire:
• Pharmacy:
• Embassy:

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Bonus tip – know the correct emergency number, globally – Click Here

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Security Expert Witness Testimony, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.

A residential security detail is often thought of and described as boring, uneventful, and unnecessary by agents that feel they are “stuck” working in a static security position. However, residential security is a crucial process that bears the same importance as escorting a client to exotic locations and high-profile events.

The terms used above were some of the exact phrases used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers assigned to the property of Prime Minister Jean Chrétien before the night of November 5^th, 1995. What started as a quiet Sunday evening turned to chaos at 2:33am as an assassination attempt was made on the Prime Minister and his wife Aline.

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Property Layout

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Incident

Andre Dallaire, a 34-year-old male breached the fence of the PM’s residence, which set off an alarm, and proceeded to move toward the house unobserved by RCMP officers on duty. Security camera footage later revealed that Andre had wandered around the property for 20 minutes, waved at the security cameras and threw a rock through a window to access the residence. He made his way toward the master bedroom with a knife where he was confronted by Aline before she retreated into the room locking the door behind her and informing her husband of the intruder. Prime Minister Chrétien dismissed her warnings as “a bad dream” but she immediately called the RCMP officers stationed in the gate house by the end of the driveway. After her phone call, seven minutes passed before the RCMP officers arrived at the bedroom door to arrest Andre and take positive control the property.

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Opportunities for Improvement

When a mission fails, leaders have an obligation to find out what happened, who was involved, where it happened, when it happened, how it happened, and why it happened. Once this information is consolidated, leaders must take action to mitigate future risk and increase performance levels for future tasks.

• The officers were not positioned to provide additional layers of protection around the residence
• The officers were consolidated into one corner of the property
• There was no investigation performed for the tripped alarm
• The “patrolling officer” was not notified of the tripped alarm
• The cameras were not being monitored by any of the officers at the RCMP hut
• The “patrolling officer” did not observe the intruder while on patrol although he was visible and obvious to the cameras
• The officers misplaced the key to the residence
• The “patrolling officers” were not issued additional keys to access more than one door at a time
• The officers secured the perimeter before moving inside to assist the PM and his wife
• The officers provided no instruction to the PM or his wife over the phone
• There was a 7-minute response time for the officers to move from the RCMP hut to the bedroom door
• Several officers spoke negatively to the press about the residential security assignment

It is generally not extremely difficult to consolidate information for the first 5 parts of this assessment model. However, it is generally not easy to understand why an incident occurred or where the poor performance began. Each one of the bullet points above represents an issue that would likely have been prevented by proactive leadership. Great leaders build quality systems for their teams to function within. Let dive in a little deeper to review the underlying factors that have been found to habitually contribute to team performance across most organizations.

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Human Capital

Human capital is the single most important piece of exemplary team performance. Simply stated, if you hire the correct people, fewer issues will exist, and many problems will be solved at lower levels in the organization. This is important if the organization is attempting to provide services on a larger scale because leaders cannot feasibly make every decision for their team members as the company grows. New hires shouldn’t only have relevant experience for the position. They should also be the right “fit” for the company culture. This issue of the right “fit” is where most organizations miss the hiring objective. There are many talented people that would be better suited to work for your competitor because they will clash with your organizations values, policies, objectives, and trajectory. Also, relevant soft skills should be non-negotiable for all people occupying leadership positions.

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Relevant Training

It is important to hire people that meet a baseline of knowledge, but it is also important to conduct internal training for team members. Many companies are reliant upon the training that employees received in other companies/segments within the industry. It is also important to understand that similar training is not the same as relevant training. One example we can pull from this incident is the RCMP’s response to Madam Chrétien’s call for help. In most cases, police personnel are trained to secure a perimeter, wait for backup then enter a structure or pursue an assailant. That training is relevant for most police operations however, this trained response almost cost the Prime Minister and his wife their lives. It is important to remember that under stress people revert to their training and will usually do what they have done thousands of times before. This is why consistent and relevant training is needed for every specialization within the organization.

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Effective SOP’s/Policies

Standard operating procedures are important for establishing organizational norms that result in productivity. Every high performing organization has SOP’s/polices in place to not only set standards for incidents that may commonly occur but also to guide team members in the right direction if they must make a decision on something that is not written in the policy. The record of this incident does not reveal the policies of the RCMP however, we can deduce two things from the outcome. Either the policies were not followed by the officer, or the policies were not relevant to the task, threat, and environment. It is impossible to hold people to a standard that does not exist or has not been communicated. Effective policies also allow organizations to enact the next part of this model which is accountability.

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Accountability

Accountability is not difficult, but it is also not a popular subject amongst many managers. If your SOP’s and policies are guiding the organization, accountability is simply enforcing those SOP’s and policies. If you hire or promote the wrong leaders this task will not be accomplished for two reasons. #1 Improper hires may not be willing to bear the unpopularity that comes with enforcing policies with team members. #2 Improper hires may lack the awareness to understand the difference between defiance, negligence, and ignorance in their subordinates. Hiring leaders with these necessary soft skills will result in employee retention and workplace satisfaction. In this case the officers spoke negatively about the detail calling it boring and uneventful. Explaining and highlighting the value that team members bring to their jobs and the necessity of their performance is a part of creating an atmosphere of accountability.

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Customer Service

Many people that work in the security and law enforcement industries do not think of customer service as vital to their job function. In this case the only contact the officers had with the client was the call for help made by Madam Chrétien. No questions were asked, and no instructions were given to the PM’s wife by the officer that picked up the phone. Customer service is about anticipating the needs of your client and your team. Asking relevant questions and providing updates to the client and the team is vital to mission success. Prime Minister Chrétien was so angry with the RCMP that the assigned officers and their supervisors were suspended and/or reassigned. He also suggested in a later statement that it was his belief that the guards were caught sleeping by the assailant. Remember that the client’s perspective may not always be accurate, but it is often the only one that matters.

____________________

David Hobson, MBA is a project manager for LaSorsa and Associates, and former US Army Airborne Infantryman.

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References

Four Mounties Suspended After Break-in at Prime Minister’s Home. (n.d.). AP NEWS. https://apnews.com/article/ec59402f0e79e52399e4fa69d2f89132

Wikipedia Contributors. (2022, April 4). André Dallaire. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andr%C3%A9_Dallaire

‌ November 5, C. B. C., & 2021. (2021, November 5). Canadian PM’s Wife Stops Murder Attempt by Locking Door | RealClearHistory. Www.realclearhistory.com. https://www.realclearhistory.com/2021/11/05/canadian_pms_wife_stops_murder_attempt_by_locking_door_802080.html#

Farnsworth, C. H. (1995, November 7). Intruder Is Charged With Attempted Murder of Canada’s Premier. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1995/11/07/world/intruder-is-charged-with-attempted-murder-of-canada-s-premier.html

Gourgon, J. (2022, May 11). Break in at Prime Ministers Home [Review of Break in at Prime Ministers Home].

‌

Job Title: Residential Security Agent – Executive Protection – Full time – North Carolina

LaSorsa & Associates is pre-screening candidates for full time Residential Security Agents for a client in the Charlotte, NC area who will ensure the safety, security and reputation integrity of the client, client’s family, other designated individuals and company assets.

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CORE COMPETENCIES:

-Proficient in protective measures, surveillance, counter-surveillance & protective intelligence.
-Support the execution of proactive measures to ensure the security and safety of the client.
-Proactively prevent events that may have an impact on operations.
-Monitor, note, report, and investigate suspicious persons and situations, safety hazards, and
unusual activity.
-Competent and confident in dealing with Government and world leaders.
-Setup and execute basic security functions, i.e. perimeter and access control, identification
procedures, command post operations, secure assets/property and post standing duties.
-Prepare reports that detail incident findings.
-Collaborate with other agents and coordinate activities.
-Maintain relationships with local, state and federal law enforcement and other related
government agencies.
-Develop emergency procedures and incident responses.
-Follow Company, Contractor and Client SOP’s and directed orders.
-Proficient using, working with and researching open source and social media applications, platforms and technologies.
-Perform basic trend and pattern analysis and identify significant intelligence trends.
-Able to multitask, problem solve and respond effectively in dynamic situations.
-Computer skills including Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
-Operational understanding of today’s technology across all platforms.
-Professional appearance with professional written and verbal communication skills.
-Customer service oriented.

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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

-At least one year prior experience in HNW or executive security.
-Must have a high school diploma or GED.
-Must be at least 21 years of age.
-Must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license.
-Must have a reliable means of communication (i.e. smart phone w/ internet, email, etc.)
-Must have a reliable means of private transportation.
-No felony conviction; no misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude.
-Must maintain 100% compliance with all local laws and state licensing requirements.
-Must have the legal right to work in the United States and fluently speak, read, and write English. (ILR Level 4+ Full professional proficiency)

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PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

-2+ years experience in HNW/executive security.
-Training in executive protection, security driving and medical response. (training will also be provided)
-Law enforcement/military/EMS background.
-BS/BA or equivalent relevant experience in military or law enforcement.
-Foreign language skills.
-Already possess appropriate security licensing.
-Already possess CPR/FirstAid/AED Adult and Pediatric certification or above.
-ASIS CPP, PSP, PCI certifications.

——————————————

WORKING CONDITIONS:

-Working with or without reasonable accommodations.
-Requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively in all essential functions.
-Maintaining composure in dealing with authorities, executives, clients, staff, and the public occasionally under conditions of urgency and in pressure situations.
-Frequent sitting, standing and walking, which may be required for long periods of time, and may involve climbing stairs and walking up inclines and on uneven terrain.
-Occasional walking and reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
-Occasional lifting and moving approximately 10 pounds and occasionally up to 50+ pounds.
-Effective close and distance vision and ability to adjust focus.
-Computer usage and operating electronics.
-Rapid and effective decision-making during unusual or emergency situations.
-On occasion, may be required to perform stressful and physical activity.
-Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays.
-Maintain flexible schedule and on-call hours as needed.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

——————————————

TERMS:
-Full time
-Compensation: $30/hr DOE
-Applicant must be willing to participate in a pre-employment screening process, including drug screening, background investigation, psychological evaluation, reference checks and signing of non-disclosure/confidentiality agreements.
-Relocation assistance/allowance will be offered for preferred candidates. Temporary local lodging will also be considered/offered to preferred candidates.

——————————————

HOW TO APPLY:

-ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS may email application form OR resume’ / CV with all applicable licenses/certifications and a full photo in professional attire to admin@Lasorsa.com addressed in reference to this posting.

*Position closes October 15th, 2020

Competitive candidates will be selected for interviews. Selections are based on a candidate’s academic achievement, relevant area of study, other applicable experiences, availability, and the needs of the organization.

LaSorsa & Associates is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

Additionally, the LaSorsa & Associates team of instructors and practitioners will be collaborating with the team at Tony Scotti’s Vehicle Dynamics Institute on the continuing evolution of their current EP-related courses, such as their Best Practices for the Solo Practitioner and Surveillance Detection Tactics and Techniques courses. Along with open enrollment options, clients with specific training needs will benefit from the opportunity to have the VDI and LSA teams collaborate on the design, development and delivery of custom training solutions that meet their particular goals and objectives.

9 Day Executive Protection Training Program

“Realistic, Relevant and Valuable” – The 9 Day Executive Protection Program includes double-occupancy hotel accommodations, most meals, all materials/ammo and local ground transportation. The program covers protective fundamentals, medical response certification including CPR/AED/FA and TCCC, firearms proficiency, defensive tactics and now with Protective/Evasive Driving.

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For more information on LaSorsa & Associates’ 9 day comprehensive Executive Protection Training program, as well as other training opportunities we offer, visit lasorsa.com

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For additional information on courses offered by Tony Scotti’s Vehicle Dynamics Institute, to include dates for when their Protective/Evasive Driving training will be offered in conjunction with LaSorsa & Associates courses, visit www.vehicledynamics.com

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JOB SUMMARY: Executive Protection Driver – San Francisco Bay Area, Full time

LaSorsa & Associates is pre-screening candidates for a Executive Protection Driver – San Francisco Bay Area, full time position (Personal Protection) who will ensure the safety and protection of the client, client’s family, other designated individuals and assets in accordance with all local, state and federal laws. The position is located in the vicinity of Oakland, Ca.

——————————————

CORE COMPETENCIES:
-Operate motor vehicles in a safe and legal manner.
-Coordinate transportation and logistics to support the client’s itinerary.
-Build and maintain route options for known and potential destinations.
-Be able to provide effective unarmed and armed personal protection.
-Develop emergency procedures and incident response procedures.
-Maintain and safeguard highly sensitive and confidential information.
-Conduct preliminary assessments and advance planning operations.
-Coordinate protective support elements, agents and service providers.
-Follow Company, Contractor and Client SOP’s and directed orders.
-Maintain a high level of physical fitness and professional personal appearance.
-Domestic and overseas travel on short notice, approximately 10-25% of the time.
-Design, setup and execute basic security functions as assigned by the Principal and executive management. (i.e. perimeter and access control, command post operations, secure assets/property as directed and execute post standing duties, etc.)
-Maintain relationships with local, state and federal law enforcement and other related
government agencies as required/anticipated.

——————————————

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
-ILR Level 4+ (Full professional proficiency) in English
-Must have a high school diploma or GED.
-Must be at least 21 years of age.
-Must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license.
-Must possess a U.S. passport and be able to travel approximately 10-25% of the time, both domestically and overseas.
-Must have a reliable means of communication (i.e. smart phone w/ internet, email, etc.)
-Must have a reliable means of private transportation.
-No felony conviction; no misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude.
-Must maintain 100% compliance with all local laws and state licensing requirements.
-Must have the legal right to work in the United States and fluently speak, read, and write English.
-Proficient in advance operations & protective intelligence.
-Basic knowledge of physical security guidelines and assessments.
-Basic knowledge of various security platforms including but not limited to recording devices, video management, surveillance systems and cameras, alarm systems, access control systems, etc.
-Able to multitask, problem solve and respond effectively in dynamic situations.
-Able to work effectively in a team as well as independently with little or no supervision.
-Computer skills including Microsoft Office: Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
-Operational understanding of today’s technology across all platforms.
-Professional appearance with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
-Customer service oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

——————————————

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
-Familiar with local traffic, major venue and commercial airports and FBOs
-HNW personal protection/security driver experience.
-Reputable executive protection training course completion.
-Reputable defensive / evasive driving course completion.
-CPR/First Aid/AED certification for Adult/Pediatric. (American Red Cross, AHA, etc.)
-Advanced medical certifications and training (EMT, Paramedic, etc.)
-Multi-Lingual/Foreign language skills
-Law enforcement/military/EMS experience.
-4 year College degree or above.
-ASIS CPP, PSP, PCI certifications.

——————————————

WORKING CONDITIONS:
-Working with or without reasonable accommodations.
-Requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively in all essential functions under stress.
-Maintaining composure in dealing with authorities, executives, clients, staff, and the public occasionally under conditions of urgency and in pressure situations.
-Frequent sitting, standing and walking, which may be required for long periods of time, and may involve climbing stairs and walking up inclines and on uneven terrain.
-Operating a vehicle for several hours continuously with minimal break times.
-Occasional walking and reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
-Occasional lifting and moving approximately 10 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
-Requires effective close and distance vision and ability to adjust focus.
-Computer usage and operating electronics.
-Rapid and effective decision-making during unusual or emergency situations.
-On occasion, may be required to perform stressful and physical activity.
-Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays of up to 12 hours.
-Maintain flexible schedule and on-call hours as needed.

——————————————

TERMS:
-Full time / Direct hire with the client.
-Applicant must be willing to participate in a pre-employment screening process, including drug screening, background investigation, psychological evaluation, reference checks and signing of non-disclosure/confidentiality agreements.
-Relocation assistance/allowance may be considered for preferred candidates.
-Salary Range: TBA
-Position screening will be closing on 9/15/2017 

——————————————

HOW TO APPLY:
-ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS may email application form OR resume’ / CV with all applicable licenses/certifications and a full photo in professional attire to jml@Lasorsa.com addressed in reference to this posting.

Application Form – Non-Disclosure Agreement

——————————————

LaSorsa & Associates is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring, promotion or enforcement of its policies and procedures on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, age, marital status or national origin and complies with all pertinent laws, executive orders and regulations.

2017 Training Schedule

An excerpt from a recent job post:

The ideal candidate should be able to / should possess:

• A graduate of a reputable executive protection training school
• Have an operational understanding of today’s technology across all platforms
• Advanced medical and evasive driving experience
• Proficient in Protective Intelligence
• A minimum of CPR/First Aid/AED for all ages is required

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Our course content is not coincidental.
Realistic, relevant and valuable Executive Protection training:
Executive Protection, Medical Response and Defensive/Evasive Driving
and optional 2 days of firearms training

9 Day Executive Protection Training Program
May 22-20     Aug 5-13     Nov 4-12
with Hotel, Most Meals & All Materials Included

This post is now UNRESTRICTED – New job postings are typically restricted to Alumni in order to grant them early access to the listings – Some posts may be removed if applied to by Alumni.

____________________

Executive Protection Specialist Los Angeles Area, CA

Executive Protection Specialist Silicon Valley Local Bay Area, CA

Executive Protection Specialist (Part-time) | Multiple Locations, VA

Executive Protection Agent | San Francisco, CA

Executive Driver | Greater Detroit, MI

Executive Protection Investigations Agent (Part-time) | Milwaukee, WI

Security Specialist (Part-time) | Las Vegas, NV

Executive Protection Program Manager

Executive protection and security support

Executive Protection Specialist – The Boeing Company

Executive Driver (Santa Clara, CA)

Security Escort – Global Resource Solutions Boston

Executive Security Agent – Confidential Posting – Seattle, WA

Executive Protection Agent – Quality Investigations, Inc. – Henderson, NV

Corporate Security Manager – New York, NY

Special Agent – San Jose, CA

Executive Protection Agent – San Francisco Bay Area, CA

Security & Protection Agent – Seattle, WA

Director, Security – Boston, MA

Executive Director, Security – Chicago, IL

Protective Security Specialist – LEOSA Qualified – Menlo Park, CA

Residential Security Specialist  – San Francisco Bay Area, CA

Armed Protective Security Specialist (CA CCW)  – Los Angeles, CA

Corporate Security Officer -SS – Scottsdale, AZ

Protective Services Intelligence Analyst  – Seattle, WA

Physical Security Specialist-Global Security  – Bentonville, AR

Agent – Executive Protection – Las Vegas, NV

Protective Intelligence Specialist – Wichita, KS

Special Event Security Manager  – Seattle, WA

Personal Protection Detail – Jacksonville, FL

Executive Protection Officer  – Phoenix, AZ

Executive Protection Agent – Plano, TX

Executive Protection Agent  – Blue Bell, PA

Corporate Driver  – Philadelphia, PA

Executive Protection Facilitator Driver – Annapolis, MD

Executive Protection Agent – Part Time  – San Francisco, CA

Personal Security Driver / Chauffeur – Austin, TX 

We exclusively seek to employ the most exceptional and steadfast agents who can and will sustain the mission of our organization. BBX’s hiring standards are very selective and only serious and motivated candidates are encouraged to apply.

Residential Security Positions

The ability to work independently and report to account supervisor.
Candidate must be reliable, punctual, and possess a professional demeanor.
Must have great communication skills.
Maintain a detailed activity log / shift report of residential activity.
Flexibility and willing to work overtime if necessary. Initially will be working primarily night/graveyard shifts.
Applicants must not possess a criminal history / background and must be in good physical health.
Must possess a valid CA Guard Card.
CCW / Exposed Firearm Permit preferred, but not required for all positions.
Executive Protection Positions
The ideal candidate will have military and/or law enforcement experience and a knack for thinking “on his or her feet” in dynamic and fast-paced situations.
The ability to work independently and with a team, as well as good time management skills including being punctual and reliable.
Due to the nature of the industry, willingness to work dynamic shifts and overtime hours in addition to the flexibility to travel domestically or internationally on short notice.
Applicants must not possess a criminal history/background and must be in good physical health.
Fluency in a foreign language is also desirable.
Must possess a valid CA Guard Card.
CCW / Exposed Firearm Permit preferred, but not required for all positions.
Please submit your cover letter, resume (PDF attachment), guard card number, availability, and contact information to alex@bbxsecurity.com and noah@bbxsecurity.com.

Below, I have reached out to many who have both direct and current experience with contracting overseas who have been generous enough to offer their time to provide much needed insight and guidance on the subject, covering How to Find Open Contracts, How to Find and Connect with Recruiters, Steps to Ensure Application Compliance, Successful Training Tips, Successful Deployment Tips and Coming Back Home/Maintaining Readiness.

“Breaking into the WPS program is both easier and harder than previously. In the old days, you were required to have a SOF background, SWAT Experience or time as an 11B or 0311 with combat experience. Now the requirements have gone down, but the market is flooded with qualified applicants.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

Executive Protection Training
Industry leading value: Realistic, Relevant, Valuable
EP, Medical Response, Security Driving – Hotel Included

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-How to Find Open Contracts

Networking, Social Media groups, company websites…

• SOC: https://www.soc-usa.com/careers/
• Global: www.globalgroup.com
• Academi: https://www.academi.com/pages/careers
• Triple Canopy: https://www.triplecanopy.com/careers/
• Aegis: https://www.aegisworld.com
• Blue Hackle: www.bluehackle.com
• Garda World Gov Services: www.gwgs-careers.com
• 30 Private Security Companies

“The WPS contract world is huge, there are several companies always actively seeking contractors and there are always guys leaving, ending contract or getting fired. Each company advertises open slots on their specific sites. Constellis Group owns Academi, TC, Olive Group etc. but the individual companies still run their specific recruiting. Aegis and Global are the two companies that are currently, aggressively recruiting, TC and Academi are hard to get into, because they seem to keep the same guys and have a good pool.” – Jaime Marmolejo, Opacus Tactical

“Relationships are key in this business, you need to maintain good communication with recruiting personal, home office staff etc. Even if you are on contract, it pays to know recruiters who are still filling slots for other Task Orders, if not for yourself (if your TO ends) for your friends that you can trust YOUR reputation with. The trust in this dynamic IS a two-way street however, a recruiter needs to be able to trust that you say you are who your paper says you are, that you can do the job that they need filled and that you will be able to go downrange and get that job done. If you barely make it through a “vetting” course, end up down range and fail your first quarterly weapons qualifications than you have done a huge disservice to yourself, the company and the client. In the end you will end up as the “last to pull” card member and stay on the bench NOT getting paid.” – N. Ackerman – Current High Threat Contractor. (Kurdistan, Baghdad, Africa)

“If you don’t know anyone already working for a private security company, than your best bet would be the actual individual company websites such as Constellis group( Academi/ Triple Canopy/Olive Group), Global Integrated Security, Dyncorp International, and Aegis. Those are just a handful as there are other smaller companies out there. Your second option is to check certain security oriented forums. Two good sources are Socnet forum and Secureaspects.com. There is a large group of Security contractors that frequent the sites along with various recruiters for those companies.” – Casey Dutchess, Security Supervisor, Former WPS Contractor

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-How to Find and Connect with Recruiters

Contact directly through the company’s website or search for them online, such as on LinkedIn.

“I have found there are numerous ways to get in touch with recruiters.  What I have seen the most is word of mouth.  Friends I have worked with on other contracts having info on new and/or upcoming opportunities.  The more contracts worked…the bigger that network becomes. Social media as well.  I’m on my current contract because a recruiter contacted me through LinkedIn and asked if I would be interested in a WPS-DDM position in a location other than the Middle East.” – Chris Sramek, PSS/DDM at Special Operations Consulting, LLC

“As far as finding contracts, first find out who is authorized to bid and work a DOS WPS Contract, as not everyone is permitted to even bid on one. The larger legitimate companies are Academi (Working Afghanistan & Israel), and Triple Canopy (Baghdad), and Global in (Basrah). Dyn did have northern Iraq in Irbil, but not sure if that is still open. These are the companies holding movement (PSD) Teams. A few years back when WPPS became WPS, they merged the guard force contacts in with the PSD contracts and one company may hold one and not the other. So find out what the company has, or you may be stuck on a gate. Other companies that have the Guard Force Contracts are SOC and Aegis, these are two that come off the top of my head.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

“Each company website typically has an email for a recruiter…” – Jaime Marmolejo, Opacus Tactical

“Best form of finding a contract for a first-timer is to get a reference from someone currently working with a company, recruiters rely heavily on this and it bodes well for the team on the ground as a whole when their people on the ground get the type of professionals that THEY have worked for or can vouch for. When contacting recruiters, it is a very fine line between keeping in contact and not keeping up with them during the recruitment process. They are often processing hundreds of applicants at the same time in multiple positions so they can have their applicants “slip” thru the cracks occasionally. It’s prudent to keep in contact, follow up, finish paperwork promptly, health exams and whatever else as quickly as you can. Also FSO’s (Facility Security Officers) who are responsible for the security clearance process need to be kept in the loop as well. I’ve known many applicants who have missed a training date, a deployment date because they simply didn’t keep up with the paperwork trail. If it’s a job worth having, then it’s worth making sure all your administration details are taken care of. The PMC world doesn’t have time for a boot private who can’t complete simple tasks. If you can’t keep up than another will fill your training slot and ultimately your deployment slot.”- N. Ackerman – Current High Threat Contractor. (Kurdistan, Baghdad, Africa)

“Using LinkedIn as a source to track down recruiters is great. Another option to find positions are sites such as ShooterJobs, BlackIce, SecureAspects etc. They will at least get you on the right track if not a paying member, once you find the job posting on a non-payed site, apply and then begin your search for the recruiter if you want to try and expedite the process. For non-standard contracts such as Maritime Security etc., the Internet and social media is the best place to find information. Online military forums etc. Sometimes it’s hard to find information on a company, but it’s easier to find somebody who has worked for them and can share their experience.” – Dominic Stam, Former Overseas Contractor

Searching LinkedIn for recruiters may provide the results you are looking for.

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-Steps to Ensure Application Compliance

Have everything you need ready to go, such as your DD214 and all of your military school certificates, have a valid passport, etc. See the supporting documents below for more info.

“The application process usually starts with a submitting a resume and your DD214. It will be reviewed by a recruiter and if you meet the requirements then will send you a DOS Bio to fill out. This is where you will expand on your experience. Applying for positions such as Shift Leader or Detail Leader, it will have you highlight leadership experience and have a minimal number of years in that capacity. All bio’s are sent to DOS for approval. You are also required to obtain a SECRET security clearance, so if you have a criminal record, you probably aren’t the best candidate.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

“First and foremost, READ the requirements of the position(s) you are applying for. Fact check your experience, DD214, and have the certifications for any additional training you have undergone on hand and available to present to your recruiter or company POC in addition to your resume. If you do not meet the requirements for a specific position, do not apply. Time is money to recruiters and it’s very simple for them to ensure your future applications for other positions go to the junk mail folder.” – Axel Engelhardt-Parales, Contractor at Aegis Defense Services

“Compliance usually comes straight from the Government agencies such as D.O.S., D.O.D., or whatever other organization the contract is for. If it’s a WPS specific contract, than the requirements will always come from D.O.S. Most contracts require a minimum of a Secret clearance along with passing a mandated physical fitness test. For WPS, it will be the FLETC PEB which can be found with a simple Google search. There also tends to be an age limit along with certain experience required such as if you were in the Military or Law Enforcement. The most important aspect in the process though is to pass the training required prior to getting hired and deploying with a company overseas.” –  Casey Dutchess, Security Supervisor, Former WPS Contractor

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Executive Protection & Security Driver Training

-Successful Training Tips

If you are seeking WPS contracts you will need a WPS certification which is provided by the company that hires you – regardless of which ‘high threat’ course you spent your GI Bill on…it does not matter, you are not deployable until they get you certified for the current contract. If you want to work overseas, contact a recruiter with a PMC. If you want to work in CONUS: find realistic, relevant and valuable training that will set you up for finding work where you want to be. Research similar jobs to what you are looking for, identify the preferred and required qualifications and train to meet those objectives. Find training providers who operate in the field you wish to as well, and verify their backgrounds. There are many out there who start up a training program after time in the government or military with no private sector experience. Overseas work is weapons centric, stateside is not; ensure your training includes the soft skills (such as advance work, protective intelligence, leveraging assets/resources, behavioral analysis, etc.) if you intend to be marketable to a stateside employer.

“As far as training tips…I would advise people to lose the attitude.  The WPS courses are filled with seasoned veterans who have “been there, done that.”  Unfortunately, I have noticed that some of them feel they can’t be taught anything else. It has hurt some in the long run by “labeling” them and, in some cases, not even being picked up by the company that sent them to the training in the first place. It goes back to the basic concept of being a team player.  Everyone will be placed in a leadership role during training, and the no brainer is being physically fit. WPS contracts have physical fitness standards that vary based on the client, they are not hard, though.  I’ve seen a lot of individuals fail out due to failing simple physical fitness standards.” – Chris Sramek, PSS/DDM at Special Operations Consulting, LLC

“The training is a vetting process, and they will send you home if you are not making the cut. If you do not pass the range on a certain weapons platform, you go home. To include qualifying with Iron sites on an M4, to Eotech, to ACOG with a standard 15.5″ barrel. Then do it all over again with a 10″ barrel. Driving doesn’t usually get anyone cut as everyone as it is more instructional. CQB and PRE portions will get you sent home if you do not seem proficient with your weapon are start flagging everyone in the shoot house. And when you are doing PRE’s, do not shoot the Principal when you enter the room. (I’ve seen that happen). The shoot/No shoot scenarios are critical during the training. Also make sure you are a team player, you can also be peered out by other students. As far as deploying, you will be issued all equipment and gear. You are no longer allowed to use your personal gear, but they are issuing pretty good stuff these days.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

“The training is a “vetting” course it is around a month long and done at several different facilities approved by DOS. The length of the course depends on if weekend training is available and not just MON-FRI, most of the training now a days is with weekends included. Locations are at Academi and a few others. There is a PT test, which is “sometimes” done at the company headquarters to ensure they don’t send guys to the training that cannot pass the min-standards. The core minimum standards are the PT test, firearms tests, normal “KPA” Knowledge, Performance & Attitude, which are graded daily and then of course the final FTX performance. In short, the training is not hard, what drops most guys is some of the weapons quals and more specifically the belt-feds, even more specifically the SAW. If you pass the PT test and all the weapons quals, you are in.” – Jaime Marmolejo, Opacus Tactical

“Attitude is huge, having the correct attitude is vital to surviving as well as networking within the contracting community. Whether you did your 4 years and got out, or if you’re retired out of SOF, everyone is there for one reason and everyone there met quals to be there.” – Dominic Stam, Former Overseas Contractor

“Always have an open mind, even if what you are being taught is something you already know and have done. There is nothing wrong with reinforcing the fundamentals and skills you have acquired over the years. Training should be fun and in the end is what you make of it; you can make it worthwhile or complain. A positive attitude always helps. Also, do yourself a favor and stay physically and mentally prepared. Go to the gym and go over any military pubs you may have that will help refresh your memory. I still have my 0311 manual from SOI. Never hurts go over once in a while.” – Axel Engelhardt-Parales, Contractor at Aegis Defense Services

“Definitely training can vary from company to company. I’ve had both experiences where a certain company approached training from a very blasé and almost lethargic attitude and another company treated their training course as a true vetting course. To give you an idea of how serious the latter was I started with a training class of around 60 highly paper qualified individuals who all had the required experience, yet at the end only around 30 some odd individuals ended up graduating the almost 3 months long “training” course. Some were SOF operators who were told to leave because they couldn’t work well with others, others were guys who simply were not in shape any more, and many were just failing weapons qualifications or training evolutions. While in training you just need to be able to think on your feet, be in good shape, know how to utilize your weapons effectively and work with the team you have been given. If you can do all of that than you are doing all that will be in YOUR power to move to the next level earning that deployment paycheck and working with the team downrange.” – N. Ackerman – Current High Threat Contractor. (Kurdistan, Baghdad, Africa)

“Success at training revolves around a few key fundamentals if you want to work on a WPS contract. The most important aspect is to know your weapons. For example, if the contract states that everyone must carry a Glock 19 as the duty pistol, you should know how to use it. Every weapon fires differently and handles differently. Make sure you know them. For those trying for a WPS contract, at the very least you should know: The Glock 19 pistol, M249 SAW, M240 Machine gun, M203 grenade launcher, and last but not least, the M4 rifle. Along with the M4, be very familiar as you will have to qualify with it in almost every configuration of optics. This includes the ACOG, Aim point, Eotech, and the basic iron sights. The qualifications will not be easy. WPS contracts require not just standing and shooting at a stationary target form a set known distance but also a lot of the so called “run and gun” type qualifications. You will need to know how to transition from certain stances or postures along with transitioning from one weapon system to another to engage the same target. Due to OPSEC matters, I won’t go into more details on what to expect. The bottom line is to be prepared for anything. One of my former WPS instructors said it best prior to our class officially starting on day 1. He said, “This isn’t three months of training, rather, this is a three month long job interview. You can be let go at any time, for any reason, under any circumstance.” One of the most important tips I can give though while in Training or overseas on contract is doing be “that” guy. No one likes “that” guy. He can be referred to as the know it all, or the anti social one, or even worse, the A hole. It’s a small world in contracting and if you happen to get labeled as one of those guys, you may not last very long.” – Casey Dutchess, Security Supervisor, Former WPS Contractor

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-Successful Deployment Tips

“Deployment tips…The client is in charge.  You piss off the wrong person and you could be on a plane the next day.  Also, it is not like the military, most contracts do not have any mail service, so pack accordingly based on deployment time.” – Chris Sramek, PSS/DDM at Special Operations Consulting, LLC

“As of right now, the rotations are 105/35 meaning you work 105 days, then get 35 days off. It is not really favored by anyone and there is talk about going back to 90/30’s when the new task order comes out.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

“Most of the guys should have done some tours overseas and at least 1yr of protection work “on paper” so deployments should not be hard for them. WPS runs a 105 days on, 30 days off rotation. 80% of the training in the WPS course, you will not do operationally. (WPS 1.2 is coming out soon and is way overdue on tactics and procedures) what remains the same are the communications within the teams and to the TOC. That way any guy can go on any WPS contract anywhere in the world and most of the procedures stay the same. Each specific team/site will have their own team SOPs, for example, SOC has a team in Africa which operates differently then the TC teams in Baghdad. My biggest tip: SAVE YOUR MONEY, don’t go home and buy the Harley and Ford Raptor. If you get injured, you are done, these are contracts not full time jobs with benefits.” – Jaime Marmolejo, Opacus Tactical

“Keep in mind that not all contracts are WPS (DOS). For example, gear – some provide gear, some allow you to bring our own. Rotation as well – some contracts require a full year overseas with only 3 weeks of R&R while others offer a flexible schedule that allow for 60-90 day trips with 30-60+ days at home.” – Dominic Stam, Former Overseas Contractor

“Stay up to date on trends from terrorist/criminal organizations within your area of operations, also knowing what holidays have an impact in your area and how that impacts your day to day activities. It doesn’t look good when your client is pressed on time and you did not know that it was an important holiday in your AO and now streets are shut down or traffic is jammed and you have no answer for your client. Most smaller contracts now a days that are not in the Middle East require some sort of knowledge or fluency of the language and will sometimes make or break you obtaining the job. Lastly what is important in some of the contracts that are unarmed due to specific laws in those countries the most important thing you can have and train on is your verbal judo, communication under pressure and sticking to your cover will not only save you a lot of money but will make you look like a rockstar with your client that you diffused a situation that escalated quickly by just simply talking your way out of it.” – Victor Lira, Project Security Manager for Control Risks

“Once deployed on contract, be professional – a point that cannot be stressed enough. Just like the military, you will still see those that complain about everything and good idea fairies. Differentiate yourself by being someone who can be counted upon to do the job, give a tactful opinion but ready to support those in charge after a decision is made. However, know the difference between right and wrong. The following reasons ‘I was just following orders’ or ‘I was just doing what I was told’ will not be sufficient for such things as violations of the Law of Armed Conflict and company/client policy. Additionally, put everything in writing from resignation notices to issues within your chain of command. Via email is the best way. After all, it’s not what you know but what you can prove.” – Axel Engelhardt-Parales, Contractor at Aegis Defense Services

“Some of the templates for the new Task Orders coming out has the rotation schedule like the one in Africa with an 84 day on/42 day off rotation schedule. Almost all contracts have no mail service unless you are lucky enough to end up with a DOD/APO address. So bringing all your items that you know you want/need will involve a through thought process regarding how much luggage you can bring. Buying certain items off the local economy might be an advantage, just be sure of what is available and what isn’t available locally.” – N. Ackerman – Current High Threat Contractor. (Kurdistan, Baghdad, Africa)

“Bring a lap top or some other form of entertainment. It can be very boring and monotonous in your down time, so you will need some form of entertainment. For convenience, a laptop works great as you can not only watch movies or use the internet but also to be able to communicate with loved ones back home whether in the form of Skype or some other means. Also, bring different forms of payment such as cash, check, credit card, or debit card. Remember that overseas, cash is still king.” – Casey Dutchess, Security Supervisor, Former WPS Contractor

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-Coming Back Home and Maintaining Readiness

Deployment readiness, tax preparedness, what to do with your income, etc.

“My regimen for maintaining readiness while I’m home is staying physically active, maintaining weapons proficiency, and spending as much time with my family as I possibly can.  I believe that the latter is most important to me simply because they are the reason I do what I do…to give them a better way of life and ensure that we are well off.” – Chris Sramek, PSS/DDM at Special Operations Consulting, LLC

“Some companies will reimburse students for outside training they receive while on leave. I know Global does. However, it is getting harder to do your requals as some of the areas do not have ranges anymore. So part of your time on leave might have you knocking out your requal stateside at where ever your company resides at. And last but not least, invest your money, avoid the urge to live like a rock star.” – Eric Parker, Trade-Craft Consulting, Inc.

“Shoot on your time off and maintain physically fit, not just for yourself but for your team mates. Remember that this is a JOB, not the military; stay safe by avoiding stupid or dangerous things, like going out on the road when it is not safe to, or intel suggests you do not; try not to make the client happy at the detriment of security.” – Jaime Marmolejo, Opacus Tactical

“Additional things to keep in mind when accepting a contract, are type of employment…are you going to be an Intermittent Employee on a W2 or are you going to be a1099? These things come into play when it comes time for taxes and how much money you actually bring in for the year.” – Dominic Stam, Former Overseas Contractor

Guide to Contracting & Sub-Contracting Security Services

“Be prepared for when it comes to an end. Nobody should be thinking that their time on WPS is going to have their way into lucrative EP work back home… Coca Cola doesn’t have a QRF and AS Solution isn’t hiring gate guards. Save your money, don’t think you’re suddenly going to be a stock picking genius (you’re not) and don’t trust the shysters who want to “manage” your money. Leave it in the bank, invest in low cost index funds or, if you must, use a fee only planner whose compensation has nothing to do with selling you products or churning your assets. Check https://www.napfa.org/ for someone in your area. If these terms may as well be the local language you haven’t learned a word of, this advice is for you. Have a realistic plan for when you get home. School, a job, something. Don’t be the guy sitting around pissing through money in his palatial home he can’t afford to heat. Don’t buy a Lamborghini you can’t afford to service, which has actually happened. I personally bought a small condo, a reasonable car which I’m still driving now and went directly into school on the GI Bill. Not having high overhead allowed me to live off savings and the GI Bill while working a little bit here and there with no pressure to pay the bills.” – Matt, Former Overseas Contractor

“Coming back home is great whether for vacation or for good. The number one thing I can tell you going home is to not get into trouble. If you get a DUI, domestic dispute, or any other related items against you, you can kiss your contract good bye. After that, trying to get onto another WPS contract is next to impossible. While you’re home, make sure your Passport is up to date. This includes making sure it won’t expire any time soon and to make sure you have enough pages to allow for your travels. Also, even though it may be vacation time or your home for good but still want to go back over on possibly another contract, maintain your readiness level. This includes your weapons proficiency and fitness level. Your body is a tool and you need to make sure it stays in top shape, especially given the nature of the work.” – Casey Dutchess, Security Supervisor, Former WPS Contractor

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Supporting Documents:

Candidate Info Sheet

Tactical Recruiting Pre-Screen Questionnaire

WPS BIO Format

PSS Example Bio Military

WPS-Counseling

Featured image photo cred

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmlasorsa

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