With advanced firearms and weaponry becoming readily accessible, active shooter threats in high traffic areas and properties are more prevalent than ever. To ensure the safety of the public and clients, it is imperative that the private security sector is well-prepared for these extreme circumstances. That’s where PalAmerican comes in. We’ve revolutionized the security industry with the role of Master Security Officer, an advanced level of armed security for clients with higher risk of violence, threats, or security intervention.
What is a Master Security Officer?
While all our security officers receive industry-leading training, we have an elite subset of those employees who train to become 
Master Security Officers (MSO).
PalAmerican’s MSOs are properly trained and equipped to recognize these situations, de-escalate, and intervene where necessary. MSOs wear high visibility uniforms, which is a deterrent for escalated behavior or criminal events. For large, multi-building sites or facilities, PalAmerican recommends up to five MSOs as part of a larger security force, but in order to provide a proper staff recommendation, a risk assessment process is required.
What is the MSO Training Program?
PalAmerican’s MSO training is a comprehensive program designed to equip security professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle a wide range of situations that are often challenging and or high risk. The intense, 80-hour program combines classroom and scenario-based training with extensive range training, focusing not only on fostering team building, but also on strengthening confidence for our officers in the field.
The training program contains modules designed to maximize learning and skill development by focusing on the following;
- Advanced de-escalation training
- Trainees learn from a psychologist about mental health and intoxication, and focus on developing excellent verbal communication skills to minimize the need for physical intervention
- Use of force training
- Learn when it is legal and appropriate and how to properly use safe physical intervention techniques
- Axon’s Taser Certification training (Healthcare specific certification, where applicable)
- The course covers the legal and practical aspects of using a conductive electrical weapon. Includes when and where to use a taser and how to properly use one in a healthcare, office, or retail setting
- Basic firearm training
- Legalities on carrying firearms at work and in hospital, commercial, or other public settings plus justified vs. unjustified situations on when to use a firearm
- Advanced firearm training (available according to state requirements)
- 30 rounds of shooting in a five-station course, which includes barricades and moving targets
- Scenario-based active shooter training
- Simulated active shooter scenario with actors, a real-life setting, and hands-on intervention technique and de-escalation requirements
- Interactive real-life emergency scenario simulation
- The training culminates with a live scenario exercise using actors, a real setting, and fake firearms to test all of the skills learned throughout the program
The elite training combines both classroom and field work and is open to officers from various levels of experience and backgrounds.
“When it came to firearms training, I did not have much tactical experience, nothing more than standing in one spot and shooting down range,” said PalAmerican Security Officer Emma Tucker. “The instructor took the time with me to ensure I was able to understand before continuing on, providing me with the time and guidance I needed to feel comfortable and confident in by abilities.”
Master Security Officer Requirements
In order to qualify for PalAmerican’s MSO training, the following criteria will have to be met.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently
- Strong commitment to the well-being of others.
- Ability to use a computer system and applications.
- Ability to pass advanced shooting range qualification and scenario-based de-scalation training
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least one-year related experience required.
- Active Security license or ability to obtain a security license, if applicable
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing for up to 6 hours
- Foot patrol
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times (can’t prove wants to remove)
- Prone, kneeling, and return to standing under their own power
- The ability to wear a ballistic vest at all times
- Can stay alert at all times
Here is what some officers had to say about the Program
“After taking the MSO course, it has proved itself to be superior to previous courses learned both in my personal and professional 
life. The trainers themselves were personable, patient and very knowledgeable. The firearms portion itself was previously intimidating to those without firearm experience, however it proved to be very useful and educational to myself and my fellow classmates.”
-Kevin Kearney, Security Officer at PalAmerican
Although I come from a combat-oriented background from time in the Marine Corps, the MSO course that PalAmerican offers is a great addition, especially for those who do not come from backgrounds where they would be experienced around firearms. Not only does the class go over safety, but it also covers the overall importance on how to go about handling oneself when carrying a firearm in the field.
- Richard Martin, Lieutenant at PalAmerican
“I come from a law enforcement background, and I had to learn new skills as well as unlearn past ones that were previously taught. Throughout the entire process I was given ample opportunity for asking questions and to practice. After the training was over, I felt confident in my abilities and in the lessons I learned. I believe this class will help many employees further their knowledge within the company.”
-Brandi Blankenship, Sergeant at PalAmerican
Looking to advance into a Master Security Officer role? Check out our careers page!
Are you looking to further protect your facility with the MSO training program?