Featured photo: The House of Worship Security Operator Program will be taught by Blue Ridge Community College’s officer and adjunct instructor Jonathan Tankersley. Officer Tankersley has more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, and he has received about 5,000 hours of specialized law enforcement training. (Photo by Benjamin Rickert.)
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Blue Ridge Community College is proud to announce the launch of the new and cutting-edge House of Worship Security Operator Program. This comprehensive course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the safety and security of houses of worship.
The House of Worship Security Operator Program is the first of a series of advancing levels of security courses, aimed at providing students with professional-level expertise in providing security at religious locations. With a focus on security strategies, theories and concepts, this program aims to create a comprehensive awareness of security measures that can safeguard religious institutions.
Utilizing a combination of online and hybrid course delivery, Blue Ridge Community College ensures that students can conveniently access the program from anywhere. This flexible approach to education allows individuals with diverse schedules and commitments to pursue their passion for security in the context of worship facilities.
The House of Worship Security Operator Program offers a wide range of valuable modules, including an Introduction to House of Worship Security Awareness. This module emphasizes the understanding of security theory in worship facilities and equips students with the ability to identify suspicious and hostile behavior prior to attacks on religious institutions. Furthermore, the course places increased emphasis on hostile encounter remediation, security surveillance/environmental design, and studying past attacks on churches and relevant literature in the preservation of human life.
One of the highlights of this program is the inclusion of case studies, target hardening techniques, and security awareness training. By incorporating real-life scenarios and practical exercises, Blue Ridge Community College ensures that students gain hands-on experience and develop critical thinking skills applicable to real-world situations.
Enrollment for the House of Worship Security Operator Program is now open, with the latest class taking place Sept. 1-30, 2023. To find out more about this program and to secure your seat, register directly on Blue Ridge’s Instant Enrollment Course Catalog with the course code: SEF-9153-202. Please contact our admissions office at (828) 694-1700 for further assistance.
More Continuing Education course information is available at www.blueridge.edu/ce. Learn about Blue Ridge Community College’s Public Safety Training programs at www.blueridge.edu/public-safety.