Why You Need to Combine Qualifications and Experience to Get Ahead in the Security Industry: One learner shares his experience
Working in the security industry for more than nine years has given Thomas Ramm a wealth of knowledge and front-line experience. However, when it came to progressing higher up the career ladder, a lack of recognised qualifications was holding him back.
“I speak to a lot of people in my position, who have a lot to offer, but can’t make the interview shortlist because potential employers want proof of their capabilities,” explains Thomas. It was following a major life incident that he decided to put in place a firm plan to get the qualifications he needed to reach his career goals. Thomas adds: “Whilst attending an event I was speaking to some fellow members of the Security Institute and they recommended I look at the training courses offered by PerpetuityARC Training.”
Thomas made a list of the courses and qualifications and began throwing himself into training for the first time since obtaining his Door Supervisor licence in 2007. His first step was to enrol on The Security Institute Certificate in Security Management. This BTEC Level 3 course is run by PerpetuityARC Training as the exclusive learning development partner for the Security Institute, and the sole provider of its accredited online courses.
Commenting on his experience of the course, Thomas states: “The course was extensive, but I was able to study at my own pace. I learnt so much during each module and it was reassuring to know I could always contact the PerpetuityARC team, who were so supportive and helpful, providing me with personal tutoring and assistance during my time on the course.”
Keeva Gilchrist, Learning and Development Manager at PerpetuityARC Training adds, “Twenty years ago, experience was the major factor when applying for a job. However, in today’s world, relevant qualifications alongside sector experience are essential when looking to progress up the career ladder. Our courses are designed by practitioners for practitioners and related security management theory to real world best practice. We strive to ensure that our courses offer learners the opportunity to validate their existing experience with sector-relevant qualifications, and provide those new to the field with the underpinning knowledge for success.”
Today, Thomas works as a Security Officer at the courts in Birmingham and his next course will be the BTEC Level 4 Managing CCTV Control Rooms with Tavcom Training, a company that along with PerpetuityARC Training is part of the Linx International Group.
“I have already recommended Linx International Group courses to others I know who find themselves in a similar situation to me career-wise.” Thomas continues: “In my opinion, if you are looking for a joined-up security management and technical training provider, you will find no better organisation. They are the very best at what they do.”
He concludes: “I now have a CV that has the right balance between on-the-job experience and academic qualifications.”
Learn more about our Security Institute courses here.