Security Career Expo: “You’re part of something big.”

By Staff March 8, 2018

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The fifth annual Security Career Expo, held March 7 in Mississauga, Ont., welcomed students enrolled in Protection, Security and Investigations college programs across Ontario. Students were able to mingle and network with security mentors — security professionals across a variety of fields, including financial, loss prevention, municipal, property management, health care and more — as well as vendor and association partners.

The day began with a keynote address from Silvia Fraser, head of security for the City of Mississauga, who offered words of advice from her own security career, beginning with her first role as a security guard to her present position managing security for a large municipality.

Fraser told assembled students that “you’re part of something big,” and joining an industry with a growing number of career options. She emphasized the power of networking, constant learning, integrity, and, of course, hard work. Her parting words encouraged students to “be yourself” and take responsibility for your own career and direction in life. And also to “be vulnerable” — accept criticism, be open to feedback and develop communication skills.

Fraser was also one of the mentors of the day, a list that included a dozen other security professionals who generously donated their time to offer tips and advice on career development. The event was supported by sponsors Allied Universal, ASP Security Services, CN Tower, Paladin Security, the Canadian Armed Forces, GardaWorld, Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, University of Guelph-Humber, Securitas, and G4S Canada, who also sponsored the lunch break. Special thanks also to association partners, CANASA, ASIS International – Toronto Chapter, and IAHSS.