Security Student Spotlight - Mitch Ross
We are thrilled to introduce to you our latest Student Spotlight, Mitch Ross.
With over two decades of law enforcement experience, Mitch retired and chose to pursue a career as a Security Officer in Florida. As he said, “I am going to stick with what I know” and stated a Security Officer in Florida was a natural transition. The biggest challenge is learning the rules and laws for state licensure. Mitch recently completed NITA’s Online Security D Training (40 hours), and we took time to catch up with Mitch to discuss his career and online experience at NITA. Here is a highlight of our call:
Tell us about yourself and your career path: Mitch spent over two decades as a law enforcement officer in Milwaukee, WI working as a patrol officer and culminating his service by working with IFC (Intelligence Infusion Center). He was able to bridge information and intelligence communications across jurisdictions, allowing federal, state, and local agencies to share information. Upon retirement, Mitch moved to Florida to be with family and wanted to stay in a similar career and security was the most logical option.
With your years of experience, what is one of the biggest industry changes you have witnessed? Mitch stated that security has grown from the typical desk jobs and tasks of directing and instructing people. Now, the “responsibilities have grown and are very different.” As Security Officers, we are not only protecting people but properties as well. Training and working with your employer’s expectations are keys to your success.
As an experienced security professional, what advice would you offer? “TRANING” was Mitch’s best answer. For younger professionals entering the industry, he mentioned that you need to research the laws and requirements for your profession and state as these differ. He stated, “Don’t miss the training step and know that online training is a great option to learn more.”
As for those finding security as a second career, Mitch stated, “Security is a great transition from law enforcement or military.” He advised everyone to search for the best options that fit their skill sets and make sure they are informed on the industry laws.
You have several options for online training, why did you choose NITA? “I loved the NITA process,” stated Mitch. After searching online for the best training, Mitch chose NITA for the ease of use with the website layout and the wide variety of topics covered.
How was your NITA experience?: Mitch found NITA’s training through a Google Search and loved the mixture of experiences and personalities of his classmates within our online Zoom class for the Florida Security D Training. Mitch typically enrolls in face-to-face training but loved NITA’s online platform. He further stated that NITA’s instructor, Courtney, encouraged conversation and interactions between all students with a vast variety of experiences within the class.
He stated that everyone “started at the same level” – each person had their own life experiences and knowledge but still needed the required training. Mitch commented that NITA’s instructor, Courtney, did an excellent job of “keeping the class interesting and she was extremely knowledgeable on the topics and added a comfort level for all students.”
Would you recommend NITA to others? “Yes! Without a doubt, I would recommend NITA to others. NITA’s Florida Security D Online Training was a great class and a good refresher for me.”
Our enrollment counselors are here to answer any questions you might have about our state- and board-approved status, pre-licensing training, or professional development programs.
