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August, 2005 • MarineNews 35 (Continued from page 16) Training versus seminars There is a distinct difference between training and seminars. Don't confuse the two. By definition, the dictionary says that a seminar is "a meeting for an exchange of ideas; a conference" while training is "to make proficient with spe- cialized instruction and practice." Semi- nars are generally short, cover a very small amount of information, are not well documented, and may use instructors that while very knowledgeable, may be inex- perienced as an instructor. Training, by definition, involves proficiency. Profi- ciency doesn't happen quickly. A good training program takes time. There is a place for seminars, they can be an excel- lent source of information, but don't con- fuse or substitute seminars for training. Hidden agenda Some organizations use training as a sales tool. Often this training is free. I have seen some very good training come from this version of training, but keep in mind the true reason behind the training. Years ago, security guard companies would provide free security surveys and audits. Almost every survey conducted by a guard company resulted in the report- ed need for security guards. Training can be the same way. Systems and equipment that the student is exposed to are conve- niently offered for sale by the trainer. Again, this type of training can serve a specific need, but be aware that this type of training is often narrow in scope, and may exclude competitors and other valu- able points of view. One choice for training is LSI. While no level of security can prevent all crimes, good security training helps the security professional to recognize and correct any security problem before they becomes an issue. LSI operates a 24,000 sq. ft. training facility in the United States. Started in 1955, LSI trains government and com- mercial Security Specialists. The current staff includes experienced Instructors with backgrounds in organiza- tions such as the FBI, Secret Service, Postal Inspection, General Services Administration, U.S. Coast Guard and the National Security Agency. Several LSI Instructors have backgrounds in the Fed- eral Government plus additional experi- ence with Fortune 500 companies. The staff includes several former Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Instructors. LSI has a partnership with the Interna- tional Cargo Security Council (ICSC) to provide Supply Chain Security Training. LSI offers a series of security classes, including topics such as Perimeter Securi- ty, Access Control, Closed Circuit Televi- sion Systems and related security topics. A Supply Chain Security specific class is offered as well. Courses include specific classes on specialized topics such as con- tainer seals. LSI also conducts training programs on the road throughout the United States and Internationally. LSI has recently held classes for students in Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. International students have recently traveled to LSI's training facility from Europe and South America to attend training programs. Information and training schedules are available at www.LSIeducation.com What to look for. When looking for training, ask these simple questions: 1. Does this training meet a need you have? 2. Is the training consistent and well documented? 3. Are the Instructors credible? What is their professional and educational back- ground? 4. Is it training, or is it a seminar? 5. Does the training lead to a certifica- tion? Who certifies the training? It is self-certification? 6. Does the training organization provide services and/or products, and does that conflict with the training? Ask these simple questions. This will help you decide if this training is right for you. About the author Jeff Dingle is the assistant director of special projects for LSI, a United States based Anti-terrorism, Homeland Security and Physical Security Training company. He has held security specialist and Instructor positions with the Federal Gov- ernment, and has managed security oper- ations for a former United States Presi- dent and a Fortune 15 company. He is a Certified Protection Professional. He can be reached at JeffDingle@LSIeduca- tion.com Circle 242 on Reader Service Card Circle 255 on Reader Service Card Security Room Containers Port of Bama TRAINING & EDUCATION AUGUSTMN2005 5(33-40).qxd 8/3/2005 3:27 PM Page 35
