Security Operations Centers (SOCs) are rapidly evolving from passive monitoring functions into intelligence-driven hubs. For today’s security leaders, this shift is essential to address increasingly complex and converging threats across physical security, cybersecurity, and operational risk.

Traditional SOCs focused on video surveillance, alarm monitoring, and incident response. While these remain important, modern SOCs now integrate real-time intelligence, threat detection, and data analytics to deliver proactive security outcomes. By consolidating inputs, access control systems, CCTV, cybersecurity platforms, and open-source intelligence, organizations gain a more comprehensive and unified picture.

The rise of intelligence-led security enables SOC teams to move from reactive responses to predictive and proactive decision-making. Tools such as AI-powered analytics, behavioral threat detection, and geopolitical risk monitoring allow analysts to identify anomalies and mitigate risks before they escalate. This is particularly critical for protecting distributed operations and supporting 24/7 security monitoring across global footprints.

“Security Operations Centers are no longer just watchtowers of alarms and video feeds.  We’ve seen our clients evolve them into intelligent command hubs, where AI weaves together countless data streams to reveal patterns we could never see before,” stated Brad Lauer, Senior Vice President, Inter-Con Security.

Equally important is the human element. Skilled SOC analysts trained in situational awareness, incident management, and crisis response transform data into actionable insights that drive faster, more effective decisions.

For security leaders, the modern SOC is no longer just a monitoring center; it is a strategic intelligence hub that enhances business continuity, strengthens risk management, and delivers measurable security value in an increasingly dynamic threat landscape.

Helpful Strategies for Security Leaders

In today’s volatile geopolitical landscape, executive protection requires far more than physical presence; it demands a proactive, intelligence‑driven strategy. Modern threat environments shaped by civil unrest, geopolitical instability, cyber exposure, and targeted violence have pushed security leaders to adopt integrated, data‑informed programs. Several industry organizations now position intelligence‑led executive protection as a core business‑continuity function, not a discretionary service.

The foundation of any resilient program is a comprehensive risk assessment. This includes evaluating travel routes, public exposure, digital footprint, and region‑specific threat intelligence. Leveraging real‑time monitoring platforms allows protection teams to anticipate disruptions, adjust itineraries, and maintain situational awareness, especially critical when supporting executives who travel across multiple time zones and require uninterrupted coverage.

24/7 protection is no longer optional. A robust travel security program ensures continuous oversight from departure to return, integrating live tracking, rapid‑response protocols, and global command‑center support. This includes pre‑travel briefings, in‑transit monitoring, and coordinated on‑the‑ground support through vetted local partners.

Strategic planning and route analysis remain essential. Secure transportation protocols, alternate routes, and pre‑identified safe havens should be mapped well in advance. Integrating access control, surveillance systems, and secure communication tools ensures seamless coordination across dispersed teams and enhances operational resilience.

Finally, training is a non‑negotiable pillar. Protection personnel must excel in situational awareness, de‑escalation, emergency response, and cross‑cultural communication. When technology, intelligence, and always‑on coverage converge, security leaders can deliver executive protection programs that safeguard people, preserve reputation, and strengthen business continuity.

NEWS

May 13, 2026

Contact: [email protected]

Pasadena, CA – May 13, 2026 – Inter-Con Security announces the promotion of David Oken to a new role as Chief People Officer.

Mr. Oken is responsible for all aspects of talent acquisition and retention strategy across the company’s global workforce. He joined Inter-Con in 2021 as Vice President of Corporate Talent and progressed through roles of increasing responsibility before being named to the Executive Leadership Team, a tenure that has coincided with one of the most significant growth periods in Inter-Con’s history.

“At Inter-Con, the company is only as good as the people. The engine of our business starts with recruiting and retention, and we are proud to have David lead that team,” said Henry Hernandez, President and CEO of Inter-Con Security.

Prior to joining Inter-Con, Mr. Oken served as Director of Client Services at Vaco, a national talent solution and recruiting firm. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of San Diego and is a graduate of UCLA Anderson’s Executive Education program.


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About Inter-Con 

Inter-Con is a global provider of fully customized, high-touch integrated security solutions. Inter-Con is a 100% Hispanic-owned, certified Minority Business Enterprise, and is the largest minority-owned and operated security company in the world, employing over 40,000 people across North and South America, and Africa.

Featuring Inter-Con Security Officers Jesse Jenson, Jeremy Jeffery, and Diego Hernandez

A person was down. Unconscious. Struggling to breathe.

When Inter-Con Officers Jesse Jenson, Jeremy Jeffery, and Diego Hernandez encountered the scene, their training took over instantly. Thanks to regular certifications in CPR, AED operation, and crisis response — the core foundation of all Inter-Con officer preparation — they knew exactly what to do. Within seconds, they were assessing the emergency, delivering chest compressions, deploying an AED, and coordinating with incoming EMS, all at once, all without hesitation.

This is what Inter-Con officers are built for.

“As a CPR instructor, this is exactly the outcome we train for.  Immediate action, coordination, and confidence under pressure are all qualities that count when the stakes are high. These officers didn’t hesitate, and that’s what saves lives.”

— Carnell Marshall, Regional Operations Trainer, Inter-Con

Each officer moved with a purpose. One managed compressions. One operated the AED. One guided paramedics in. Roles were clear, communication was calm, and every action was deliberate. By the time EMS arrived, the team had already done what was needed — and stabilization was successful.

That kind of seamless coordination doesn’t happen by accident. Inter-Con officers train together regularly, learning not just individual skills but how to function as a unit under pressure. When it matters most, that shared preparation shows.

“These officers didn’t just respond to an emergency — they ran toward it, stayed calm, and brought someone back. That’s the kind of person we work hard to find, develop, and keep.”

— Jesus Garcia, Vice President of Operations, Inter-Con

At Inter-Con, we believe security is more than a post and a uniform. It’s a responsibility — to the people you protect, to your fellow officers, and to the communities you serve. Jesse, Jeremy, and Diego embodied that responsibility completely.

We’re proud to have them on our team.

Join a Team That Shows Up When It Matters

Stories like this happen because of the people behind the badge. If you’re ready to build a career with purpose, supported by world-class training and a team that has your back, Inter-Con offers more than a job—we provide real opportunities to grow, advance your skills, and chart your path in the security field. We’d love to hear from you.

👉 Explore Careers at Inter-Con

Looking for Security You Can Trust?

Inter-Con provides protection built on rigorous training, proven leadership, and officers who go above and beyond every shift and every site. Let’s talk about what we can do for your organization.

👉 Partner With Inter-Con

NEWS

May 1, 2026

Contact: [email protected]

Pasadena, CA – May 1, 2026 – Inter-Con Security announced today that President and CEO Henry Hernandez was honored last night at the 2026 Latino Leaders Index 500 Awards, accepting recognition on behalf of himself and his father, Rick Hernandez. The award recognizes both leaders for their contributions to building one of the largest and most prominent Latino-owned businesses in the United States. Inter-Con is ranked as the twenty-first largest Latino-owned business in the United States.

The Latino Leaders Index 500 represents an extraordinary effort to identify, research, and celebrate the nation’s top Latino-owned and operated businesses — measuring their impact by revenue, workforce, and leadership. Inter-Con’s inclusion at #21, with an annual revenue of $1.3 billion and a workforce of more than 40,000 individuals worldwide, reflects the company’s standing as one of the largest minority-owned enterprises in the country.

Together, Rick and Henry Hernandez represent the second and third generation of Hernandez family leadership that have shaped Inter-Con Security into the largest minority-owned and operated security company in the world — a legacy built on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to service, with operations spanning North America, South America, and Africa.

“This recognition reflects the work of thousands of Inter-Con security professionals whose dedication and commitment make this company what it is,” said Henry Hernandez. “Our family has poured everything into building this company, and it is an honor to carry that legacy forward. We are proud of our heritage, and our people, and proud to represent the strength of Latino-owned business in America.”

Inter-Con Security congratulates all honorees recognized at the 2026 Latino Leaders Index 500 ceremony and looks forward to continuing to raise the standard for excellence in the security industry.

Learn more about the 2026 Index 500 ranking here.

About Inter-Con 

Inter-Con is a global provider of fully customized, high-touch integrated security solutions. Inter-Con is a 100% Hispanic-owned, certified Minority Business Enterprise, and is the largest minority-owned and operated security company in the world, employing over 40,000 people across North and South America, and Africa.

Human trafficking doesn’t happen in the dark. It happens in hotel lobbies, truck stops, shopping centers, and office buildings. It happens in places where security guards stand watch every day. That’s what makes their role so critical. 

Defined by the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals through commercial sex or forced labor, human trafficking is one of the most pervasive human rights violations of our time. According to the OCCRP, an estimated 50 million people worldwide are currently affected — men, women, and children of every background. 

An on-duty guard can be the only person in a position to notice something is wrong. 

What to Watch For 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security identifies several key behavioral and situational indicators. Knowing these signs could mean the difference between someone escaping or not. 

The person in question may be a victim if they: 

The location around you may be a site of trafficking if you notice: 

These signs rarely appear in isolation. Rely on instincts. If something looks wrong, it probably is. 

How to Respond 

Do not attempt to intervene directly, as suspected traffickers can be dangerous. Your job is to observe, document, and report. 

Building a Stronger Response

In high-traffic environments like airports and commercial hubs, security personnel are uniquely positioned to recognize the subtle signs of human trafficking that others might overlook. Investing in training and fostering strong partnerships with law enforcement aren’t just best practices — they’re our responsibility and our opportunity to make a real difference.

 — Joshua Ruiz, Senior Vice President, Operations, Inter-Con Security 

Security teams that train for this, know the signs, practice the protocols, and build relationships with local law enforcement are far better equipped to act decisively when it counts. 

You Are the First Line of Defense 

Detecting the warning signs of human trafficking isn’t a specialized skill reserved for law enforcement. It’s something every trained security professional can and should be equipped to do. Because sometimes, the only thing standing between a victim and freedom is someone paying close enough attention. 

Today’s security leaders face more pressure than ever to protect people, assets, and operations in an increasingly complex risk environment. Building a reliable, disciplined workforce is not simply a nice-to-have—it is essential. 

Hiring military veterans, along with their spouses, is one of the most effective ways for physical security services organizations to strengthen their guard operations. Leaders looking to take action can start by partnering with military transition programs, connecting with local veteran organizations, or attending job fairs on or near military bases. Establishing relationships with military family support groups and offering flexible opportunities tailored to military spouses can also help attract this talented workforce. These practical steps make it easier to connect with candidates who bring the skills and commitment needed for security success. 

Military service instills qualities that closely align with the demands of professional security work. Veterans develop discipline, situational awareness, and the ability to follow procedures while adapting to changing conditions. They’re accustomed to working in team environments where accountability and clear communication are critical. 

In real-world situations, this translates to stronger incident response, better coordination, and a steady presence in high-pressure moments. Veterans are trained to make decisions with limited information while remaining calm—an essential skill when seconds matter, and lives may be at risk. 

But the strength of the military community extends beyond those who serve. 

Military spouses bring equally valuable strengths to the workforce. Many have navigated frequent relocations, adapted quickly to new environments, and built resilience through uncertainty. These experiences foster adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of responsibility—qualities that directly support effective security operations. 

Recognizing the value of the entire military family is key. Supporting veterans without also supporting their families overlooks an important driver of long-term success and workforce stability. For security organizations, hiring both veterans and military spouses helps build cohesive teams grounded in shared values of service, commitment, and mission focus. 

According to national workforce data, there are approximately 17.6 million veterans in the United States, representing about 7% of the civilian population aged 18 and over. Women now make up roughly 12% of the veteran population, reflecting the continued growth of female service members. In the security industry specifically, veterans represent a significant portion of the workforce—studies estimate that as many as 20% of private security guards have prior military service. This means that security leaders have a strong opportunity to tap into a proven talent pool that is already widely represented in the sector. 

At Inter-Con Security, veterans and active service members account for nearly 9% of the workforce, exceeding the national average. Military spouses are also a key part of the company’s hiring strategy, helping to build a workforce known for adaptability, accountability, and mission focus. 

This strong representation of military-affiliated talent has had a measurable impact on operations. Teams with veteran leadership consistently demonstrate faster incident response times and high client satisfaction. Clients often point to professionalism, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork as key differentiators. 

“As veterans, we’re trained to expect the unexpected and to protect those around us, no matter the circumstances. In security, that mindset isn’t just valuable—it’s essential. We know how to work as a team and stay calm when it counts most.” 
— Richard Stack, COO, of Inter-Con Security, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran  

While many view hiring from the military community as a way to support those who have served, it is also a strategic decision that strengthens daily operations and enhances long-term reliability. 

Effective security operations depend on professionals who can perform under pressure, uphold commitments, and work seamlessly as part of a team. Veterans and military spouses demonstrate these qualities every day in ways that are both visible and measurable. 

As security needs continue to evolve, organizations that tap into this talent pool gain a more resilient workforce and a stronger overall security posture. This approach also reinforces the connection between service, community, and safety. 

If you’re a veteran or military spouse looking to take your career to the next level, connect with one of our recruiters today. 

Large-scale sporting events present enormous opportunities and significant risks for host cities and organizers. From national championships to the global stage of the Olympic Games, effective protection starts with a strong physical security presence.

While cybersecurity and AI-driven tools support operations, trained security guards and law enforcement remain the first line of defense. Professional security guards patrol perimeters, enforce access control, conduct screening and bag checks, and manage complex crowd dynamics. At high-attendance venues, disciplined entry procedures and credential verification are essential to reducing unauthorized access and insider threats.

Security planning for these types of events must be multi-layered. It demands strategic risk assessments, layered deployment, clear incident response protocols, and strong supervision. Organizations must train security guards in de-escalation, behavioral threat recognition, evacuation procedures, emergency response, and coordination with law enforcement and emergency medical teams.

Large-scale events also bring additional challenges, including VIP protection, athlete safety, protest activity, and dynamic crowd movement. A well-coordinated security guard force maintains operational continuity while preserving a positive fan atmosphere.

Physical security guarding services are the backbone of any event protection plan.

“At large-scale sporting events, technology is a powerful force multiplier—but it’s people who ultimately secure the environment. Well-trained security professionals on the ground are essential for managing risk in real time, detecting behavioral threats, and responding decisively when seconds matter. A layered security strategy only works when skilled guards are empowered, prepared, and fully integrated with law enforcement and emergency partners.” 

– Jon Timberlake, CPP, Inter-Con Security Division President

Contact Inter-Con to help with your next event.

As threats grow more complex, organizations can no longer rely on a single layer of security. Today’s most effective security programs combine advanced technology with experienced security personnel to create proactive, intelligence-driven protection strategies.

Data analytics and artificial intelligence are transforming how organizations detect and respond to risk. Modern security technologies leverage real-time data, predictive analytics, and AI-driven algorithms to enhance threat detection, improve situational awareness, and support faster, more informed decision-making.

By analyzing patterns across staffing deployments, access control activity, and incident reports, organizations gain deeper insight into potential vulnerabilities. This intelligence-led approach allows security leaders to allocate resources more strategically and strengthen overall operational resilience.

However, technology alone cannot mitigate risk. Professional Security Guards remain the critical frontline defense. Trained personnel interpret data insights, identify threats, maintain perimeter security, and execute effective emergency response protocols. Their presence deters criminal activity while reinforcing operational continuity.

For organizations focused on enterprise security, loss prevention, and business continuity, integrating data, AI, and skilled guarding personnel creates a powerful, layered defense. As leaders across the security industry – including experts at Inter-Con Security – continue to demonstrate, this approach enables organizations to move beyond reactive security to anticipate and prevent threats.

“The organizations that stay ahead of risk aren’t relying on one line of defense — they’re building many. When data analytics, AI, and skilled guarding work in concert, you don’t just respond to threats; you prevent them.”

 — Lynn Phillips, Senior Vice President – Head of Product, Inter-Con Security

As the security industry continues to evolve, the presence and leadership of women in physical security, security management, and risk mitigation has become a strategic advantage for organizations. A diverse security workforce isn’t just a reflection of modern values; it directly strengthens operational performance.

Women bring perspectives and skill sets that elevate the profession: nuanced communication, collaborative problem‑solving, and a mission‑driven approach that enhances both day‑to‑day operations and long‑term program resilience. Their contributions help build security teams that are more adaptive, more engaged, and better equipped to navigate complex threats.

A recent study published by the Security Industry Association (SIA) found that women overwhelmingly view security careers as meaningful and mission-driven, with 99% reporting pride in their accomplishments and 92% believing the industry offers a fulfilling career path.  This sense of purpose fuels stronger retention, deeper commitment, and higher performance across the field.

The future of the security industry will be shaped by its ability to attract and retain diverse talent. Bringing more women into frontline, technical, and executive roles strengthens the talent pipeline, improves incident‑response readiness, and drives innovation across the sector. Organizations that champion diversity today are building the leadership bench the industry will rely on tomorrow.

At Inter-Con, we are proud that diversity is a cornerstone of our organizational ethos.

“At Inter-Con, we believe representation strengthens performance across the security profession. Women make up 29% of our workforce, including 27% of first- and mid-level official and manager roles and 35% of executive and senior leadership positions. These numbers reflect our commitment to building leadership pathways, investing in mentorship, and ensuring women continue to shape the future of protective security services.”

 — Natalie Griffiths, Chief Compliance Officer & Senior Vice President, Employee Relations