Over three decades ago, I stepped into the world of security. I thought it would be temporary. It wasn’t my plan. It was just where opportunity led.
The plan was policing. I could have applied at 18, but police services didn’t like to hire that young, and they wanted candidates with post-secondary education. So I joined the military part time to get in shape, mentally and physically. I didn’t know yet how different the military and policing really are.
Then, in my second year of school, I couldn’t afford tuition. I had to leave. I found a well-paying security job, and I took it.
The military and security work both taught me discipline and grit. They tapped into abilities I never knew I had. Like a 25 km march with a full rucksack and full equipment.
I pictured a life as a police officer. But the military and security work showed me things about myself that went beyond that picture. Life stepped in with other changes along the way, and policing stayed just that: a dream.
And I’m happy with that.
Recently, I realized that even though I didn’t start out in the role I wanted 30 years ago, I’m there now. It didn’t happen overnight, and it certainly wasn’t a straight path. But through challenges, constant learning, evolving technologies, and the privilege of working alongside some incredible people, I’ve arrived at a place I once only hoped for.
The lessons from those early years still show up in my work every day. Stay calm in a crisis. Think it through. Always ask: what else?
I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished. And I know I’m here because of my constant need to see what’s next.
I’m not done. I’m still dreaming.
To those just starting out in security, or finding your path unexpectedly: stay the course. You never know when you’ll look up and realize you’re standing in the place you once dreamed of.
