Allied Universal's Edge Training Portal: A Catalyst for Security Program Success
In the dynamic landscape of security, defining and achieving success within a security program hinges on the right combination of processes, people, and technology. Central to this equation is the effectiveness of training, which can serve as a crucial catalyst for attaining program goals. Allied Universal, a recognized leader in the security industry, emphasizes the transformative power of comprehensive training, particularly through its innovative Edge Training Portal. This portal, and the broader training philosophy it embodies, aims to elevate security professionals, enhance operational efficiency, and ultimately drive program success.
The Pillars of Effective Security Training
Allied Universal's approach to training is built on a foundation of core principles designed to ensure that security professionals are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying that knowledge in real-world scenarios. This philosophy extends beyond mere compliance, focusing on creating a learning culture that fosters continuous growth and adaptation.
Core Training: Building a Solid FoundationAt the initial stage of a security professional's development, core training establishes a clear overview of the expectations and standards for their specific position. In this foundational stage, knowledge is systematically provided and then rigorously tested to ensure comprehension and retention. This phase is critical for equipping individuals with the fundamental understanding necessary to perform their duties effectively and safely. It sets the stage for all subsequent learning and development.
Site-Specific Training: Practical ApplicationWith a solid foundation of core knowledge, security professionals are then prepared to apply their learning in practical, on-the-ground situations. Site-specific training is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This includes industry-specific development, recognizing that the security challenges and protocols can vary significantly across different sectors. For instance, a security professional working in a high-tech manufacturing facility will have different needs than one assigned to a healthcare institution or a retail environment. This tailored approach ensures relevance and immediate applicability.
Ongoing Training: Adapting to Evolving LandscapesThe security environment is not static; it is constantly evolving due to new threats, technological advancements, and changing regulations. Therefore, training must also be a continuous process. Ongoing training ensures that security professionals remain current with the latest developments and best practices. As environments and regulations evolve, so must knowledge. Training has equal purpose at every step in a career, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles. This commitment to continuous learning is vital for maintaining a robust and responsive security posture.
Reinforcement: Beyond the "One and Done"A critical element of effective training is its reinforcement. The "one and done" philosophy, where training is treated as a singular event, is insufficient and will invariably fall flat when tested in an emergency. Training reinforcement can and should be a performance measure. This involves revisiting key concepts, conducting drills, and providing opportunities for ongoing skill development. By consistently reinforcing training, organizations can ensure that security personnel are prepared to act decisively and effectively when critical incidents occur. This proactive approach to reinforcement significantly enhances readiness and reduces response times during emergencies.
Accessible and Engaging Content: Fostering a Learning CultureThe most effective learning and development culture is one where students actively seek out learning opportunities, and supervisors actively support this learning, ensuring their growth in leadership roles. The best time for learning is when the student is available and receptive. A judicious mix of classroom instruction and online training ensures that information is accessible to a diverse workforce with varying schedules and learning preferences. Allied Universal's approach, exemplified by its online training academy, makes learning convenient and adaptable. This accessibility, coupled with engaging content, encourages a proactive approach to professional development, where individuals are motivated to learn and improve.
The Allied Universal Edge Training Portal: A Practical Implementation
The concept of an online training academy and resource repository was a direct response to specific organizational needs, as highlighted by the collaboration between Allied Universal and Xilinx. Xilinx, a global leader in programmable logic solutions, sought to enhance its security protocols to meet stringent certification requirements, specifically the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT).
Larry Zulawski, Allied Universal’s National Account Manager for Xilinx, North America, noted the importance of ensuring that all parties involved in the supply chain were legitimate and that appropriate duties and fees were paid. This required a significant upgrade in security awareness and procedural adherence across Xilinx's operations. Pennington, from Xilinx, emphasized the need for a company that "could bring industry knowledge and expertise and who led their industry in training." He further articulated the vision for a centralized online resource: "I asked Allied Universal if we could create an online training academy and resource repository for C-TPAT." This request underscored the desire for accessible, up-to-date, and reliable training materials, moving away from outdated methods like "a three-ring binder with coffee stains."
Enter Greg Travelstead, Allied Universal’s Security Site Manager for Xilinx at their Colorado facility. Travelstead possessed a unique combination of deep security sector expertise and highly developed web application building skills. Leveraging Microsoft Office SharePoint for collaboration and content management, along with the Adobe CS3 Web Development Suite, Travelstead was instrumental in constructing the online Xilinx Training Academy. This comprehensive program was meticulously developed to offer a complete C-TPAT study guide and incorporate interactive testing to gauge understanding and retention.
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The impact of this initiative was significant. In March 2008, Xilinx achieved Tier 3 validation for their C-TPAT certification submission, a distinction awarded to only five percent of companies on their initial application. This certification brought tangible benefits, simplifying and expediting Xilinx's supply chain processes. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) evaluators were notably impressed, citing several best practices within Xilinx's procedures and commending the company's stance on C-TPAT. The security reviews were positive across the board, with no recommendations for improvement.
Beyond the C-TPAT certification, the collaboration between Allied Universal and Xilinx resulted in an enhanced overall security program. This wasn't just about developing new systems but also about their effective implementation and the assurance of continued adherence to new procedures. Zulawski explained the critical need for security personnel to "understand and embrace why we were doing this" to fully implement the training and new security protocols. The Xilinx security officers, many of whom were retired law enforcement and part-time employees of Allied Universal at Xilinx, were highly receptive to the necessity of the new certification and enhanced security program. Travelstead added that not only were the officers trained swiftly, but the training results were easily uploaded into Allied Universal’s internal system for tracking training compliance. Pennington further elaborated on the extensive effort invested in reviewing, updating, and documenting C-TPAT processes and procedures, which led to the closing of gaps, tightening of the overall security posture, and the development and delivery of a best-in-class training program. This initiative also extended to assisting other business groups within Xilinx in achieving an appropriate level of preparedness.
It is important to note that C-TPAT certification is an ongoing process, requiring annual updates to Xilinx’s profile with CBP and periodic site validations. The lengthy certification process was significantly aided by the strong relationship and collaborative efforts between Allied Universal and Xilinx, contributing to the high rating awarded by Customs and Border Protection. The development and implementation of an online training academy, as demonstrated in this case, may not be the typical expectation of a security services company, but it exemplifies the advanced, technology-driven solutions that Pennington had come to expect from Allied Universal.
Allied Universal's Recognition and Broader Training Initiatives
Allied Universal's commitment to exceptional training and development has not gone unnoticed. The company has been recognized by industry accolades, such as the Training APEX Awards, which rank companies for their excellence in harnessing human capital. This ranking is determined by a comprehensive assessment of qualitative and quantitative factors, including financial investment in employee development, the breadth of development programs, the alignment of development efforts with business goals, and their effectiveness in driving behavioral change and business impact.
Don Tefft, Allied Universal’s Global Chief Human Resources Officer, expressed pride in the company's training and development programs, stating, "We’re honored to have our training and development programs recognized by Training magazine. As we work to become an employer of choice, we are dedicated to creating a ‘promote-from-within’ culture that provides employees with advancement opportunities." This commitment is further evidenced by the company's internal promotion rates, with over 18,000 team members promoted in 2022 alone.
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