Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
Financial aid (may be available)
$80 total
$24.99 total
$80 total
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
No cost info
$120 total
The security industry is seeing a surge in demand for well-trained and certified security professionals. This blog post aims to guide you through the journey of becoming a security guard in Chicago. It's a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the training requirements, the day-to-day life of a security guard, the certification process, and how to find related jobs. All resources and links included in this post are courtesy of Dreambound, the largest platform that helps students find vocational training programs.
A security guard is a professional tasked with maintaining the safety of people, property, and information. They can work in various environments such as residential areas, commercial buildings, events, or even in cybersecurity. Their role can be challenging but rewarding, offering a sense of responsibility and fulfillment of protecting others.
Becoming a security guard requires specific training that aligns with the state's regulations. In Illinois, for instance, you will need to complete a 20-hour Basic Security Officer course that covers essential topics like:
Security and public relations
Civil and criminal law
Fire safety
Reporting and documentation
This training prepares you for the various roles you might be expected to play as a security officer and ensures you're ready to handle any situation that may arise on the job.
When searching for a security guard training class, consider factors such as:
Certification: Ensure the class is certified by the state or an accredited institution.
Course Content: The class should cover all necessary topics required for the job.
Duration: The length of the class should align with your schedule and learning pace.
Location: A class near your location will be convenient, especially for in-person training.
The day-to-day class activities may include:
Lectures on various security topics
Practical exercises to instill the skills taught
Role-playing scenarios to prepare you for real-life situations
Examinations and assessments to gauge your understanding of the course content
After completing the training, you will be required to pass a state-administered examination to get certified as a security guard. The certification process may involve background checks and fingerprinting. Once certified, you can start applying for security guard jobs.
Once you're certified, platforms like Dreambound can help you find related jobs in your area. You can also consider networking with professionals in the industry or attending job fairs.
After becoming a security guard, you can further your career by taking advanced courses in:
Cybersecurity
Fire safety
Emergency response
Criminal justice
These courses can open up more opportunities in specialized security roles.
For those who wish to advance their careers, there are advanced training programs available. These include:
Armed Security Training: This equips you with the necessary skills to handle firearms and other security equipment.
Supervisory Training: This prepares you for leadership roles in the security industry.
Specialized Security Training: This includes courses in cybersecurity, VIP protection, and more.
After gaining experience as a security guard, there are various career advancement opportunities available. You could consider roles such as:
Security Manager
Security Consultant
Private Investigator
These roles often require additional training and experience but offer higher responsibilities and rewards.
. These roles also involve ensuring the safety of the public and property.
Becoming a security guard is a rewarding career that offers numerous opportunities for those willing to invest in the necessary training. With the right class and certification, you can take on a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of your community. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to advance your security career, this guide provides a roadmap to help you navigate the journey. Remember, Dreambound is here to help you find the right vocational training program for your career goals.
Dreambound has written dozens of in-depth guides on how to get started in this field, with information specific to your city. If you're located somewhere else or thinking about moving, check out some other guides we've written:
Exploring diverse professional options? Dreambound has comprehensive guides to assist you in making well-informed decisions. Take a look at these resources:
Dreambound's platform allows prospective students to find the right educational program for them through searching, filtering, and connecting with our extensive selection of career & technical education partners.
Dreambound has over 70 programs across healthcare, technology, business, and industrial trades. This includes programs such as Medical Billing, Cybersecurity, and welding.
Some of our schools offer financial aid for those who qualify. Many others offer payment plans, where you can pay the cost of class over time.
Yes, Dreambound offers many online programs. On Dreambound's search, you can filter by online, in-person, and hybrid (part online, part in-person).
Dreambound is completely free for you to use! We are supported by schools and organizations who pay to advertise on our website, so we can offer all of our career resources for free.
