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L.A. Job Prospects For Well-Trained Security Guards Are Surging

Impelled by a wave of concerns about crime, vandalism, terrorism and other forms of illegal activity, highly trained security guards will continue to be needed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a demand for surveillance specialists should be strong within the nonpublic sector of enterprise, as a proliferating number of private security firms begin assuming some of the work police officers used to do. In Los Angeles, top security guards are earning an annual salary of nearly $40,000, according to current employment data.

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(Photo Courtesy of Edmon Muradyan)

"The security industry is growing at a rapid pace and has become an integral part of our society," said Edmon Muradyan, owner of Marshall Security and Training Academy. "Commercial buildings, retail establishments, residential neighborhoods and most businesses in L.A. are hiring private security to protect people and property."

Muradyan said his organization remains earnest in its pursuit to equip guards with what they need to seek and secure steady employment.

"We provide them with the best instruction and training in a state-of-the-art environment, utilizing a virtual systems simulator, which I believe no other training academy has at their facility," said Muradyan, a 17-year veteran of security-based services and certified firearm and baton instructor.

How will a security guard's role change by 2022?

"Private security will be used to assist police and other law enforcement personnel in the years ahead, similar to how private security is being used by the military and federal government."

How does one prepare for a sustainable career in this field?

"I urge aspiring security guards to get their credentials and continue their education to become certified and trained, in excess of the minimum state requirement."

What defines effective security guards?

"They must maintain a professional image, show their presence, and be critical thinkers, with an ability to assess and analyze a situation to determine the threat level and appropriate response. Most important, they should have a good attitude toward their job and the public."

What is your message to ambitious security guards? 

"I encourage them to take all security-related courses and training, and get at least a degree in criminology or criminal justice."

Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.

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