If accountants have the letters CPA following their names, security personnel the world over aspire to affix three letters to their names as well – three big letters that convey a level of expertise that commands a high level of respect in the security profession: CPP.
Established by ASIS International in 1977, the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification is recognized as the worldwide standard for professional competency in all areas of security management.
Acquiring this coveted certification isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It is an investment of time, effort, and commitment. It is awarded through an intensive qualification and testing programthat provides an objective measure of an individual’s broad-based knowledge and competency in security management.
But once a security practitioner gets ASIS-board certified, it can profoundly impact his career. It paves the way for enhanced credibility, expeditious career advancement, long-term development, and to some extent, an increased compensation potential. A CPP designation means you belong to the largest certified group of security professionals in existence, which says a lot.
Most companies these days prefer hiring CPPs because they have a stronger grasp and a more holistic perspective of security management issues. The CPP designation that succeeds their names are more than just decorative letters, they signify their level of expertise and provide evidence of their unquestionable credentials. Hiring a CPP ensures that your company is in good hands, because CPPs are the most skilled and knowledgeable individuals in the security profession.
Security practitioners know and understand that in order for them to stay relevant and remain competitive, they must be certified, ASIS-certified. The arduous process of achieving the ASIS CPP designation doesn’t even end after being awarded the certification, as the CPP has been subject to recertification requirements as a way of ensuring that the credential carries real value. CPPs are required to recertify every three years by participating in one or more of the following activities: continuing education, public service, volunteer work, article/book publication, or by retaking the exam. In short, ongoing professional development is required in order to maintain the credential. Truly, it is an investment, to say the least. And employers all over the globe are taking notice.
In fact, when ASIS surveyed all current CPPs to determine why they would hire an employee with a CPP designation, 29 percent of 850 respondents said they would because certification demonstrates evidence of professional competence while 20 percent said certification shows commitment to the security management profession. The numbers, it seems, prove that more and more companies across various industries give weight to an employment candidate’s CPP designation.
This week, 27-29 November 2012, security practitioners in the Visayas and in Mindanao have an opportunity to learn more about what the ASIS CPP program is all about as the organization partners with SecurityMatters Magazine in presenting the 2nd Asset Protection Lecture Series (APLS) and the ASIS International – Philippine Chapter National Convention in Cebu City.
The three-day event, which will be held at the Parklane International Hotel, is set to cover the widest possible scope of security-related issues and concerns and include as many key industry subject areas as possible to give delegates an opportunity learn current trends and challenges, and the chance to network with established individuals in various industries.
An impressive roster of speakers and lecturers will grace the two events,including former DILG Secretary Rafael Alunan, who will deliver the National Convention’s keynote address.
Other distinguished speakers for the convention include Col. Dencio Acop, (Ret.) CPP; Clarence Martinez; Bing Mendezona; Danny Pineda, CSP, CIHS, CSMS, CCSM; P/DGen Edgardo Aglipay (Ret.) and myself.
For APLS, the notable line-up of lecturers includes Col. Mateo Luga, (Ret.) CPP; Mario Manipol, CPP; Oscar Astilla, CPP, PSP.
The events are made possible by generous sponsors, which include Ace And Associates, Inc. (AAA) and SecurityMatters’s avid supporters, Security Bank and Everbest Security Agency Coporation. Emme Security Group, one of the largest security services providers in the country, is likewise sponsoring the APLS and National Convention along with National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Grandeur Security & Service Corporation, and Sentinel Integrated Services, Incorporated.
I couldn’t reiterate it enough–being a CPP is a worthwhile career investment that yields numerous benefits and rewards. Isn’t it time for those who are tasked to protect assets get certified?
