The International Foundation for Protection Officers recently conducted this interview with Christopher Innace, CPO, owner of New York-based Pro Protection Security, where, in his own words, he discusses the benefits of an IFPO certification:
-- When did you start your career in security and what motivated you to do so?
I started my security career in 1995 as a security guard my freshman year in college. I always wanted to become a Police Officer so I figured working in security first would help me learn some skills.
-- Describe your first security job -- location, tasks, etc. How about now, what is your current job (if different from the first one)?
My 1st security job was as a security guard working overnights at a local mall. Tasks consisted of making sure all doors were locked, no trespassers or vandalism and opening up the mall in the morning. My current job is a Police Officer and I also own my own security guard company, Pro Protection Security Inc. (www.proprotectionsecurity.com). We specialize in providing armed and unarmed Law Enforcement Security and Security Professionals on Long Island and New York City. We provide security for multiple clients including but not limited to schools, special events, office buildings, executive protection, towns/villages, beaches, catering halls/county clubs, retail stores, shopping centers, estates, construction sites, warehouses, temples and much more.
-- How did you first become aware of the IFPO and its certifications? What convinced you to pursue an IFPO certification?
I became aware of IFPO & its certifications from my college professor, Chris Hertig, at York College of Pennsylvania. I majored in Private Security Management in which I earned a Bachelor’s Degree. Professor Hertig encouraged me to become a Certified Protection Officer and to also become published in IFPO security manuals and publications in which I accomplished both. I was published in Security Supervision and Management: Theory and Practice of Asset Protection 2nd, 3rd & 4th editions in 1999, 2007 and 2015. IFPO also published an article I wrote “Dangers of Ridesharing Services” in 2019.
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-- What certification did you achieve and what year was that?
I became a Certified Protection Officer in 1999.
-- How did your IFPO certification enhance your career? Did it help you get another job? Impress your employer? Benefit you financially? Any other way you can think of?
The IFPO certification enhanced my career in the private security world. I started my career with the NYPD in 1999 before transferring to Nassau County PD in 2007 in which I am still currently employed. Throughout my past 21 years in Law Enforcement, I used IFPO certifications to network, obtain side security jobs and to eventually own my own security company, Pro Protection Security Inc. It has benefited me financially, recognition and knowledge.
-- What would your advice be to those who might be considering an IFPO certification?
My advice would be to obtain any IFPO certifications you can. IFPO certifications are useful tools that you can always have as you try to enhance your career in the security world and it is recognized worldwide.
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The International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) is dedicated to providing meaningful and cost effective security training for security guards and protection officers.
We believe that education is a necessary and essential part of professional security training and the security officer’s background. IFPO serves individuals, security companies, and organizations that have their own private security staff. Our students and members benefit from the recognition and standing that the prestigious IFPO certification conveys.
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International Foundation for Protection Officers Mission Statement
Mission Statement Part I.
The International Foundation for Protection Officers provides professional learning opportunities for security practitioners, to impart the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to maximize job performance and enhance career potential.
Purpose: to make a positive difference in the quality of the participant’s job performance and elevate the professional status of students who partake of our learning opportunities.
Business: to supply committed security practitioners with a quality education to help achieve their highest potential and provide recognized accreditation for successful completion of educational goals.
Values: commitment, integrity, responsibility, and standards of excellence, provide the platform that supports our journey as we pursue our mission.
Vision Statement
Commitment to Excellence: To be the recognized center of excellence and primary provider of education and training products and services to the security industry.
Mission Statement Part II.
“The International Foundation for Protection Officers is committed to the support and professional development of protection officers and supervisors. Through advocacy, promoting training standards, and providing accessible training, education and certification opportunities, we seek to enhance their professional standing as well as increase and diversify the value of the vital services they provide.”