Top 10 Under 40: Dave Pym, Manager, occupational health, safety and security, Quinte Health

What do you enjoy most about your security role?

Security and emergency management have an integral role in health care. The interactions I have with patients and their families, colleagues, community partners and others is very satisfying.

How has the industry changed since you became a security professional and what further changes would you like to see?

Within health-care security, I see a focused approach to simulation and cross-disciplinary training. Clinical and security training together is a critical step to help reduce workplace violence, and assist with life safety initiatives, fire code enforcement and more. There seems to be a growing interest in these types of opportunities on the clinical side. With further awareness, I think it would go a long way in re-enforcing the expertise that exists in our industry. With this also comes an increased accountability of competency within our industry. A top priority for hospitals when selecting security services is ensuring uniformed security are competent and trained in up-to-date programs.

Outside of professional training, what has helped you the most in terms of skills development?

Becoming an instructor in various programs and the relationships that come with that has really helped me grow as an individual and professional. Also, networking outside the industry and becoming more versed on what our health-care and first responder colleagues are doing has enabled me to reflect on my career goals and education path. I am fortunate to have close ties with our local fire, paramedic and policing community partners. I value their guidance and mentorship.

How can the security industry encourage more participation and market itself as a viable and thriving career?

I think promoting the industry as a stepping stone to policing sends the wrong message to people who might be looking at our industry. The first step is showcasing the variety of security career verticals such as health care, technology, residential and government. It will emphasize opportunity and growth, making the industry more attractive. Highlighting the ties to law enforcement, sales, business and technology, and the mentorship that goes with it, will attract potential recruits too. Employers will want to invest in these individuals.