In the security services sector, there are more varieties of security solutions than there are flavors of ice cream at the supermarket. When we categorize these security approaches, we can broadly distinguish between the “minimalist” approach and the “professional grade” approach. For over 30 years, Security Engineers has dedicated itself to achieving professional-grade security for its clients.
In a competitive market, this commitment has sometimes made growth challenging, as many companies aim to cut costs whenever possible. Nonetheless, Security Engineers has consistently prioritized high-quality, efficient security solutions. Today, this commitment is more relevant than ever, as advancements in security technology have made professional-grade security accessible even to those with modest budgets. Since its inception, the company has focused on disproving the stereotypes associated with minimalist security approaches.
Over the next 30 years, the company significantly expanded its offerings, extending its reach to 16 states across the American South and beyond. In the last three decades, Security Engineers has evolved from a basic guard service company into a national leader in security solutions.
31 years ago, Security Engineers began by specializing in uniform guard services. By 1997, the company expanded to include background check services. About five years ago, its offerings further expanded to include advanced technologies like mobile surveillance units (MSUs) and fixed surveillance units (FSUs). These units, equipped with cameras, radar systems, and talk-down speakers, can be deployed at virtually any client site.
With these technological advancements, clients can access live feeds and conduct alert-based monitoring, which is ideal for businesses working within a budget. These solutions are continually enhanced with features like motion-based detection and artificial intelligence modules that can identify the presence of humans or animals, providing immediate notifications. These improvements add an extra layer of security and peace of mind for clients.
Technological advancements have also been driven by strategic partnerships. In 2022, Security Engineers became a dealer for Alarm.com, offering its perimeter security, access control, and camera systems to a broader client base. Vice President James Bottom emphasizes that effective security solutions must integrate various components.
“There is no perfect security,” he says. “You have to institute layers of security to have a good, robust program.” From motion detection and glass-break sensors to access control, camera systems, fencing, and lighting, layers must work together to create an optimal security program. Security Engineers provides customers with all the necessary layers to design a program tailored to their needs.
James, who recently celebrated his 25th year with the company, highlights the quality of Security Engineers’ security officers as a key differentiator in today’s market. The company’s primary offering is its uniform security service guards, who are highly trained, well-paid, and possess both customer service and security expertise. These officers undergo extensive initial training and continuous updates as protocols evolve. “We want to make sure we are putting the best possible people and products out there to represent us and our customers in the best way possible,” Bottom says.
Security Engineers seeks long-term employees who will immerse themselves in the company culture and build enduring relationships with customers. The officers work in diverse fields, including medical, manufacturing, large distribution, finance and banking, hospitality, and large city center areas. Wherever there is a need for protection and monitoring, Security Engineers’ service guards provide top-notch service.
Bottom notes that security officers are often misunderstood due to negative media portrayals. Contrary to these stereotypes, the security industry is highly regulated, with businesses and workers accountable to regulatory boards. Most states require fingerprint background checks for security officer licenses, along with standard training classes.
Today’s security officers must meet strict training standards, including background checks, drug testing, and more, ensuring that Security Engineers’ personnel are top-tier. Marketing Manager Shelley Love adds that many officers have backgrounds in law enforcement, the military, or significant security industry experience. The company’s training is led by FBI-certified trainer Warren Powe, who ensures rigorous standards for all security officers. This thorough training process dispels outdated stereotypes of security guards as inept.
Although Security Engineers’ positions are contracted, Bottom stresses that each security officer must pass rigorous physical, behavioral, and mental screenings before carrying a weapon. The company’s training is so comprehensive that local police and SWAT departments regularly drill with the Security Engineers team, and the officers frequently earn top marks. Hiring at Security Engineers requires more than just an application; it demands a serious commitment to the company’s high standards.
As the need for security persists, Security Engineers continues to thrive. Bottom points out that in recent years, there has been a decline in law enforcement personnel across America, leading businesses to rely more on private security to ensure customer safety. In Birmingham, Alabama, for instance, the police department is short about 400 officers, prompting local businesses to increase private security measures. “We have individuals in the community starving for protection [who] are leaning on private and contract security to bridge that gap,” says Bottom. Security Engineers is ready to fill this gap.
Since its rebirth in 1993, Security Engineers has grown organically, thanks to its dedicated customer base. The company plans to continue its innovation through 2024 and beyond, offering services like drone detection, K9 services, MSUs, FSUs, remote monitoring, and Alarm.com products.
The team aims to enhance these offerings while maintaining its distinctiveness and improving quality. This commitment is evident in Security Engineers’ higher alert accuracy and continuous pursuit of advancements, such as integrating gunshot detection for schools and universities to aid in lockdown protocols.
Bottom asserts that the company’s mandate for growth while maintaining quality involves constantly pushing the envelope and asking, “What is the next layer of security that needs to go out there to the consumer?”
