What Does it Really Mean to Train?
What does it really mean to train? The answer would appear obvious - that we attend classroom and/or practical training sessions to learn a new skill or work on current skills and knowledge. This is very true. We subscribe to the belief that training is ongoing no matter what position you hold or the number of years of experience one may possess.
Alan and I recently attended a 3 day MOAB (Management of Aggressive Behavior) training session in Windsor, CT. Alan became certified as an instructor and I was re-certified as an instructor. From the moment we entered the room to begin our training, we came to the realization that for three days, we were not instructors but students taking the time to learn something new and sharpen our skills. The make up of the class was diverse with about half being sworn law enforcement officers. Others came from healthcare security, parks security, and contract security. As diverse as the makeup was we were all students. A majority of us were there to be re-certified while the remainder were there for the first time.
The MOAB instructors were a former Pennsylvania State Trooper Lt. and a former Detective from Pennsylvania as well and the President of MOAB. Anyone attending this program for the first time will quickly realize that communication with other students is vital to succeed in the program.
As we progressed in the training, whether through group exercises or attentively listening to the instructors, we make the realization that we are all on the same page. The Law enforcement officers were more than willing to share their experiences and tips on how to apply the techniques being explained, not only to a few of us who were "shooting the breeze" during our short breaks, but to the entire class. What surprised me however was the attitude these officers took with their security counterparts. They asked these security professionals what was difficult about doing their jobs and how law enforcement can better assist them in performing their duties safely and effectively. It was refreshing to see security and law enforcement trade perspectives and perceptions and come to a positive outcome and mutual understanding.
During our practical sessions, these same law enforcement officers provided expert tips and explained correct procedures. many of the students had the opportunity to conduct "take-downs" on these officers to apply a technique that was just learned. I was impressed by their enthusiasm to help others in the training while they tried to get a better understanding of security's role in their daily protection responsibilities.
Alan and I learned a lot during those three days as did everyone in our class. We learned the subject matter and passed the exam and practical. More importantly, we learned that we are humans that need to be understood and understand. We walked away from this training having learned a few things: regardless of perception, police-security relations are improving, communication is the heart of training - all opinions matter, respect is key to training- on the job and in real life, and that it's a small world - one of your fellow trainees, whether private security or law enforcement could very well back you up and even save your life!
We encourage you to continue your training while keeping these things in mind!
MOAB® is a registered trademark of MOAB® Training International, Inc.
Be Safe!
Dan Sinisi, CAPP1, CCSS
Partner - Sound Training Group LLP
