Ian Stubblefield ⋅ Boca Raton, FL Contractor / Cherokee Federal ⋅ 23 years experience

Collin,
I was in the same scenario you are in 20 years ago. The answer is Yes, there are many things you can do to set yourself apart via Security Forces career field. One of the primary means is by seeking out additional training opportunities within the squadron. Get friendly with your training section or even better try and take a position within the training section. They have the greatest access to LE based training. Obtain instructor certification for things like ASP, OC, Taser, Less Lethal, Verbal Judo, de-escalation techniques. Etc...
Anything specialized training for “active shooter or mass casualty scenarios” is topical. These things are generally transferable within the LE community. See if your State has a “cross over course” for LE. This is normally for police officers from one state seeking a police job in another. Example: Florida allowed (at one point) for SFS stationed at bases in Florida to take a 2 week “high liability” course and then sit for State Exam. There is some paperwork and a processing fee involved but it is possible. This was in lieu of a full 6 month police academy. That way a department does not have to pay for you to attend an academy. Or better yet you don’t have to pay for a full academy.

Hope this helps.
Feel free to contact me for any follow up
Ian Stubblefield

Kevin Shin ⋅ Culver City, CA Culver City Fire Department ⋅ 10 years experience

Greetings Collin,

Sounds like you're on a great path to your goal in getting into law enforcement. I would say with veteran experience, especially in security, gives you a great competitive advantage.

The only advice I can give is to make sure your interview skills are sharp. If you would like me to review your resume etc, contact me anytime.

Semper Fi