Tech Systems boot camps lead to professional certifications

ATLANTA—Tech Systems Inc. has organized study groups and boot camps to help its employees get professional education certifications such as the ASIS CPP and PSP. It will even pay for books and test registration fees.

TSI decided to create an internal program last year to help employees with the CPP (Certified Protection Professional) exam.�Now it has extended that effort to the ASIS PSP (Physical Security Professional) exam.
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“It provides instant credibility to have [the ASIS certification] acronym on their business card,” said Sharon Shaw, TSI client development manager.

The CPP exam is designed for end users not integrators, but that's why TSI wanted its employees to start with that certification.

"We wanted to better relate to our clients and really understand what they're up against every day. The CPP focuses on security managers and best practices for security directors," Shaw said.

Tech System's program is unique, according to ASIS marketing manager Leigh McGuire. “It's definitely a very strategic approach to business,” she said.

TSI had 11 employees pass the ASIS PSP exam in 2015. It now has 12 PSP-certified employees on staff and 17 CPP-certified employees.�Tech Systems employees also hold CISSP and CISM certification and Cisco certifications.
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“But it's more than just credentials,” Shaw said. “There's a shift in emphasis to more education on industry trends and best practices and real professional education rather than just getting certified on manufacturers' product lines.”

In addition to helping Tech Systems, Shaw believes professional certifications from ASIS, PSA Network, SIA and other organizations help “raise the bar” in the security industry. She said that Tech Systems would be willing to advise other integrators who are interested in setting up internal programs.

Shawn Reilly is heading up Tech System's education effort.

Tech Systems is also helping its customers get professional certifications. “We're in the second round of [helping some clients] get certified with the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety," Reilly said.

“The clients need [the certification]. They needed someone to put a program together. Every Tuesday we mentor our clients who want to get certified,” Reilly added.