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ASIS International, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, is a professional organization for security professionals.^[1] It issues certifications, standards, and guidelines for the security profession.

Founded in 1955 as the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS), members were principally government and corporate security professionals. The term "industrial security" denotes U.S. Department of Defense contracts with U.S. industry for defense technology and materials. The organization officially changed its name in 2002 to ASIS International to reflect its international expansion,^[2] which currently includes 34,600 members in 155 countries and 240 local chapters in 89 countries worldwide, the Annual ASIS Fact Sheet contains additional information. The name "American Society for Industrial Security" no longer exists except in historical legal documents.

As of 2018, the annual educational and networking event hosted by ASIS is referred to as the "Global Security Exchange (GSX).^[3]^[4] This event is centered on education sessions, networking opportunities and an exhibit hall showcasing over 450 security vendors.

The ASIS Foundation offers security professionals certification scholarships, practical research, member hardship grants, and more.

Certification programs

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ASIS administers four professional certification programs - "Certified Protection Professional" (CPP), "Professional Certified Investigator" (PCI), "Physical Security Professional" (PSP) and the "Associate Protection Professional" (APP) designation.

References

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^ "About ASIS". ASIS. Retrieved 30 May 2015.
^ Penuel, K. Bradley; Statler, Matt; Hagen, Ryan (2013). Encyclopedia of Crisis Management, Volume 1. SAGE. p. 13. ISBN 9781452226125.
^ "ASIS International rebrands annual event as the 'Global Security Exchange'". Security Info Watch. 5 December 2017. Retrieved 11 July 2019.
^ "Global Security Exchange (GSX)". GSX. Retrieved 2020-01-29.

External links

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Official website of ASIS International

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ASIS International is a global professional organization for security management professionals, founded in 1955 as the American Society for Industrial Security to professionalize the emerging field of industrial security.^[1] Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, it serves over 35,000 members across more than 240 chapters worldwide, representing diverse industries from entry-level practitioners to executive leaders in public and private sectors.^[2]^[3] The organization's mission centers on advancing the security profession by protecting people, property, and information through education, certification, standards development, and knowledge sharing.^[4] Originally focused on industrial security in the United States, ASIS International expanded internationally with its first overseas chapter in Europe in 1960, reflecting the growing need for standardized security practices amid post-World War II industrialization and global threats.^[5] In 1966, it established the ASIS Foundation to support research, scholarships, and professional development, conducting early projects like a 1969 survey of 5,000 American businesses on security practices.^[6] Over the decades, the organization has evolved to address contemporary challenges, including cybersecurity, physical security, and risk management, while maintaining a commitment to ethical standards and inclusion.^[7] ASIS International's key activities include offering globally recognized certifications such as the Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), Professional Certified Investigator (PCI), and Advanced Protection Professional (APP), which validate expertise in security management and are held by thousands of professionals worldwide.^[3] It develops industry standards and guidelines, provides educational resources like certificate courses and the ASIS Upskill platform, and facilitates networking through regional chapters, councils, and annual events.^[4] Additionally, the organization supports career transitions for veterans and law enforcement personnel via programs like Operation Career Change, and offers hardship grants to members facing personal or professional challenges.^[4] Through these initiatives, ASIS International remains the world's largest association for security professionals, fostering a collaborative community dedicated to creating a safer world.^[3]

History

Founding and Early Development

The American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) was established in 1955 amid heightened security concerns during the Cold War, when industrial espionage and the need to protect sensitive defense-related information posed significant challenges to both government and private sector operations.^[5] The organization aimed to professionalize the field of industrial security by fostering collaboration among professionals to share best practices, adapt Department of Defense regulations for industry use, and address gaps in physical security for manufacturing facilities and corporate assets.^[5] This focus was driven by the era's tensions, where "neither industry nor government was adequately prepared for the tremendous responsibility of securing defense information," leading to misunderstandings and vulnerabilities in protecting proprietary and national security-related assets.^[5] The groundwork for ASIS began with informal meetings among security experts in the late 1940s, culminating in a pivotal 1953 gathering in Detroit organized by the Special Security Group, which advocated for a national professional society.^[5] A steering committee, led by Paul Hansen, drafted a prospectus, and the society was incorporated on January 18, 1955, in Delaware by Hansen, Richard Lowe, and Philip Wolz, with incorporation papers filed on January 21.^[8] A temporary board was formed on February 17, 1955, followed by the election of the official board in March 1955 in New York City.^[8] Paul Hansen served as the inaugural president, supported by Vice President Gerard Kavanaugh, Secretary Russell White, and Treasurer Philip Wolz.^[8] Early efforts included adopting bylaws and a constitution in 1955–1956 to outline objectives such as emergency planning, government liaison, and standards development, with the first national convention held in October 1955 in Washington, D.C.^[5] In its formative years, ASIS emphasized educational initiatives like seminars on security practices and the establishment of basic guidelines for physical protection measures.^[5] The first local chapter formed in Southern California in December 1955, followed by rapid expansion across the United States, and headquarters were established in Washington, D.C., in 1957 alongside the launch of the Industrial Security magazine to disseminate knowledge.^[5] Membership started with 257 charter members by the end of 1955, primarily from government and industry backgrounds, and grew steadily through chapter development and professional networking.^[5] By 1960, ASIS had surpassed 1,000 members across 32 U.S. chapters, marking its transition toward broader influence while laying the foundation for future global outreach.^[9]

International Expansion and Rebranding

Following its initial focus on the United States, ASIS International began its international expansion in the early 1960s. The organization's first international chapter, known as the Europe Chapter, was formed in 1960, primarily comprising American security professionals working in Europe.^[5] This milestone marked the shift from a domestic entity to one with global outreach, enabling members abroad to access ASIS's resources and networking opportunities. To improve coordination among growing chapters, the organization established five regional vice presidents in the 1960s, who facilitated communication and support across regions.^[5] Expansion accelerated in subsequent decades, particularly into Asia and other areas during the 1970s. For instance, the Singapore Chapter was chartered in 1975, providing a hub for security professionals in Southeast Asia and contributing to the organization's presence in the region.^[10] By 1978, ASIS's membership had surpassed 10,000, reflecting the rapid growth driven by international chapters and increasing recognition of professional security management worldwide.^[11] This period solidified ASIS's role as a bridge between U.S.-centric practices and global security challenges. A pivotal rebranding occurred in 2002, when the organization changed its name from the American Society for Industrial Security to ASIS International. This update acknowledged the entity's worldwide membership—spanning over 200 chapters by then—and its evolving focus on comprehensive security beyond industrial sectors, including information protection and risk management.^[12] The name change emphasized inclusivity for non-U.S. members and aligned with the broadening scope of security threats. In the 21st century, ASIS adapted to major global events, notably the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, by enhancing counter-terrorism resources such as guidelines for physical security and certifications for investigative specialties.^[5] These efforts helped shape legislation and professional standards in response to heightened risks. The organization's 50th anniversary in 2005 further highlighted these adaptations, celebrating advancements in security careers and the profession's maturation into a global discipline.^[5]

Organizational Structure

Governance and Leadership

ASIS International's headquarters is located at 1625 Prince Street in Alexandria, Virginia, a site it has occupied since 2019 after relocating from its previous location in Arlington, Virginia.^[2]^[13] The organization's governance is led by a Global Board of Directors, which serves as the ultimate fiduciary body responsible for strategic guidance, high-level oversight, and resource allocation.^[14] The board consists of 9 to 21 voting directors, including principal elected officers such as the president, president-elect, and secretary/treasurer, as well as at-large directors and regional representatives from established regions like North America, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia Pacific.^[15] Officers are elected annually by the Global Board, while at-large directors serve three-year terms, with elections staggered across three classes to ensure continuity; no director may serve more than two consecutive terms.^[15] Regional boards, which report to the Global Board, focus on implementing region-specific strategies aligned with global objectives.^[14] Executive leadership includes the CEO, who oversees daily operations and staff, currently held by William "Bill" Tenney, appointed in 2024 with extensive experience in corporate security and intelligence.^[16] The 2025 executive committee comprises President Joe Olivarez Jr., MBA; President-Elect Eddie Sorrells, CPP, PCI, PSP; Secretary/Treasurer Pablo Colombres, CPP; and CEO Tenney, supported by at-large directors such as Lisa Oliveri and Axel Petri.^[17] Key staff roles emphasize operational efficiency, though specific positions like chief operating officer vary based on organizational needs. A list of past presidents, beginning with Paul W. Hansen, CPP, in 1955–1956, documents the leadership succession, with most serving one-year terms.^[18] Governance is supported by established policy frameworks, including an Antitrust Compliance Policy that underscores the organization's commitment to competition laws and prohibits discussions or actions that could restrain trade.^[19] Internal bylaws, most recently amended in July 2023, outline board composition, election procedures, and amendment processes requiring a two-thirds vote of directors, ensuring adaptive and transparent decision-making.^[15]

Membership Demographics

ASIS International boasts a global membership of approximately 34,600 security professionals as of 2024, drawn from corporate, government, and non-profit sectors and representing all career stages from entry-level practitioners to executive leaders.^[11] This diverse composition underscores the organization's role in uniting individuals focused on areas such as risk management, physical security, cybersecurity, and business continuity.^[20] The membership emphasizes inclusion across gender, ethnicity, and professional backgrounds, fostering an environment that promotes equal opportunities and diverse perspectives within the security field.^[21] Key benefits include access to exclusive resources like webinars, publications, and a member directory; networking through subject-area communities and events; and support via the ASIS Foundation's hardship grants, which assist eligible members with renewal fees during financial difficulties.^[20]^[22] With over 240 chapters operating in 89 countries, ASIS provides localized hubs for professional development, education, and collaboration, coordinated by regional boards for North America, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia Pacific.^[11]^[14] Membership categories encompass individual options for regular professionals and those in emerging markets, student memberships at reduced rates, and organizational affiliations like the CSO Center for chief security officers and executives.^[23]^[24] Membership has exhibited modest growth since 2020, rising from about 34,000 to the current figure of 34,600, reflecting sustained interest in the association's offerings amid evolving global security challenges.^[25]^[11]

Mission and Activities

Core Objectives and Ethical Guidelines

ASIS International's mission is to advance and reinvest in the security profession through education, certification, standards, and knowledge sharing, fostering a global community dedicated to excellence and inclusion.^[4] This mission underscores the organization's commitment to protecting people, property, and information across public and private sectors, while embracing a "big tent" philosophy that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion among security professionals worldwide.^[4] By supporting professionals at all career stages with resources, peer connections, and best practices, ASIS aims to build resilient communities and elevate the overall standard of security management.^[4] Central to this mission is the ASIS Code of Ethics, an aspirational framework revised in March 2023 to guide members in upholding integrity, professionalism, and societal benefit in the security industry.^[26] The code consists of six articles: performing professional responsibilities legally and morally while respecting diversity and prohibiting harassment; maintaining truthfulness, honesty, and integrity without misleading others; exercising diligence and avoiding conflicts of interest; ensuring competence without overextending capabilities; safeguarding confidential information; and refraining from maliciously harming the reputations of colleagues, clients, or employers.^[26] Complementing the ethics code is the enforceable Code of Conduct, which mandates behaviors such as acting with dignity and respect, complying with laws, and avoiding discriminatory or abusive actions, with provisions for membership revocation in cases of violations.^[7] Complaints under the Code of Conduct are handled through a structured process, prioritizing informal resolution but allowing formal review by ASIS if issues pose risks to safety, reputation, or the organization.^[7] To address evolving challenges, ASIS's strategic goals, as outlined in recent annual reports, emphasize adaptation to emerging threats such as cybersecurity and active assailants.^[27] For instance, the organization launched the "Essentials of Convergence" certificate program in 2024 to bridge physical security and cybersecurity expertise, while updating its Security Risk Assessment Standard to better mitigate active assailant risks and released a new standard for school security in 2025.^[27]^[28] These initiatives reflect ASIS's broader objective of expanding knowledge sharing on best practices to enhance global resilience against physical, cyber, and other dynamic threats.^[1]

Education and Professional Development Programs

ASIS International offers a range of educational programs designed to enhance the skills of security professionals, including live and on-demand webinars, self-paced online courses, and in-person training sessions. These programs cover critical topics such as risk assessment, crisis management, and leadership development, providing practical tools for addressing contemporary security challenges. For instance, the Essentials of Crisis Management Certificate Program introduces foundational principles for preparing and responding to crises, while leadership-focused eLearning modules explore the intersection of security and human resources management.^[29]^[30]^[31] Through the ASIS Foundation, members can access educational grants to support security-related studies, including scholarships for higher education programs like the IE Business School's Effective Management for Security Professionals, which covers advanced leadership and strategic topics over 4.5 days in Madrid. Additionally, hardship assistance is available via member grants to cover course fees for those facing financial difficulties, such as job loss or illness, ensuring broader access to professional training.^[32]^[22] Professional development is supported through continuing professional education (CPE) credits earned via webinars, online courses, and certificate programs, which are required to maintain ASIS certifications. Subject Area Communities facilitate peer learning by connecting members in specialized groups, such as those focused on information security or physical security, through online discussions, virtual events, and resource sharing to foster best practices and networking.^[33]^[34] Recent initiatives for 2024-2025 emphasize emerging threats, with programs addressing AI in security and supply chain risks through targeted webinars and courses. Examples include "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Proactive Security Management," which examines AI's role in threat detection and decision-making, and sessions on countermeasures against supply chain disruptions and business espionage. ASIS delivers dozens of such webinars annually, alongside other online and in-person offerings, to keep members abreast of evolving risks.^[27]^[35]^[36]

Publications and Research Initiatives

ASIS International produces a range of publications and research resources that disseminate knowledge on security management practices, emerging threats, and industry best practices to its global membership. The flagship publication, Security Management magazine, has been a cornerstone since its inception as Industrial Security in July 1957, when the first issue was mailed to members, and was renamed in 1972 to reflect its broadened focus.^[5] Published monthly in digital format since becoming digital-first in 2023, the magazine covers industry news, case studies, best practices, and expert analyses tailored for security professionals, with archives accessible to members.^[37]^[38] It also features supplementary content such as podcasts and annual print issues tied to major events like GSX and ISC West.^[39]^[40] In addition to periodicals, ASIS conducts targeted research through annual surveys and reports that benchmark security trends and practices. Notable examples include the 2024 Active Assailant Preparedness Survey, conducted in partnership with Everbridge in June and July 2024, which assessed organizational readiness, response strategies, and evolving approaches to prevention based on responses from over 500 security professionals.^[41]^[42] The 2025 Security Trends report, released in February 2025 and sponsored by Resolver, examined the strategic evolution of security functions within organizations, highlighting progress in aligning security with business objectives through surveys of senior leaders.^[43]^[44] ASIS also publishes white papers and specialized reports on specific threats, such as the Executive Protection Standard released in 2025, which provides frameworks for designing and managing protection programs for high-profile individuals.^[45] Complementary resources include practical guidelines and toolkits, like the Standards & Guidelines Toolkit, which equips users with implementation strategies for security protocols.^[46] The ASIS Online platform, encompassing the organization's website and digital archives, offers members access to these articles, reports, and historical content for ongoing reference.^[3] These publications and research initiatives significantly influence security policy and professional practice by providing data-driven insights and actionable recommendations. For instance, findings from the 2024 Active Assailant survey have informed enhanced preparedness protocols across industries, emphasizing rapid response and employee training.^[42] The joint ASIS-SIA report Complexities in the Global Security Market: 2024-2026, published in 2024, forecasts market growth to $459 billion by 2026 while analyzing geopolitical and technological drivers, aiding strategic planning amid rising complexities.^[47]^[48] Such resources are integrated into ASIS's educational programs to support professional development. Overall, ASIS's output establishes benchmarks that shape industry standards and enhance organizational resilience.

Conferences and Major Events

ASIS International organizes a range of conferences and major events that facilitate networking, knowledge exchange, and professional development among security professionals worldwide. These gatherings emphasize interactive discussions on emerging threats, best practices, and innovative solutions, drawing participants from diverse sectors including corporate security, government, and law enforcement.^[49] The flagship event is the Global Security Exchange (GSX), an annual conference launched in 2018 as a rebranding of the longstanding ASIS Seminar and Exhibits, which originated in 1955 shortly after the organization's founding. GSX has evolved from early in-person meetings in the 1950s to a modern hybrid format incorporating digital access, reflecting advancements in global connectivity and event technology. The 2025 edition, held from September 29 to October 1 in New Orleans, Louisiana, marked the 70th anniversary of both ASIS International and the conference series, attracting nearly 15,000 registrants from 95 nations. It featured over 200 educational sessions, more than 450 vendors showcasing products and services, and opportunities for policy discussions on topics such as geopolitical risks and cybersecurity.^[50]^[51]^[52]^[53] In addition to GSX, ASIS hosts regional and international conferences to address localized security challenges. ASIS Europe, for instance, convenes security leaders to explore physical, cyber, and human risks impacting business operations; the 2025 event occurred March 4-6 in Dublin, Ireland, with the next scheduled for March 23-25, 2026, in Antwerp, Belgium. Regional chapter seminars, organized through ASIS's network of over 200 chapters, provide grassroots networking and targeted professional development at the local level, fostering community-driven discussions on practical security applications.^[54]^[55]^[56] Special initiatives enhance inclusivity at these events, such as Military and Law Enforcement Day during GSX 2025, which offered free one-day access on October 1 to active-duty and retired personnel, first responders, and their families, honoring their contributions to public safety. These conferences collectively enable extensive networking, product demonstrations, and collaborative dialogues on evolving threats, strengthening the global security community's resilience and innovation.^[57]^[58]

Standards and Guidelines

Development Process

The development of standards and guidelines by ASIS International follows a structured, consensus-based process designed to incorporate diverse expertise from security professionals worldwide. This process is overseen by the ASIS Professional Standards Board (PSB), which ensures voluntary participation, nonproprietary development, and balance among stakeholder interests, including users, producers, and general interest groups.^[59] Volunteer technical committees and working groups, formed on topics such as physical asset protection and organizational resilience management, drive the creation of documents through collaborative drafting and iterative review.^[60] For ANSI-accredited standards, the process aligns with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Essential Requirements, involving initiation by the Commission on Standards and Guidelines, committee formation with balanced representation, drafting, internal balloting requiring a two-thirds majority approval, and public comment periods announced via ANSI's Standards Action publication.^[60] Non-ANSI guidelines follow a similar five-phase cycle—initiation, committee development, public review, approval by the PSB, and publication—typically spanning 1-3 years from proposal to final release.^[61] Public reviews, lasting at least 30 days for ANSI projects and announced on the ASIS website for others, allow stakeholders to submit comments, which committees must address in writing, fostering transparency and broad input.^[59] ASIS International has functioned as an accredited standards developing organization (SDO) since receiving ANSI accreditation in 2008 and ISO recognition shortly thereafter, enabling it to contribute to global harmonization efforts.^[62] The organization collaborates with international bodies like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) through stakeholder consultations and project initiation notices (PINS) to align standards, such as participating in ISO technical committees on security management systems.^[60] Nine ANSI-approved standards and numerous guidelines have been produced, covering areas from risk assessment to supply chain security.^[63] To maintain relevance, ASIS standards and guidelines undergo systematic review every five years, with options for revision, reaffirmation, or withdrawal based on committee evaluation of evolving threats and technological advancements.^[60] Revisions require the same consensus process, including public review for substantive changes, ensuring documents adapt to contemporary challenges like integrated physical-cyber risks.^[59] This ongoing maintenance supports ASIS's mission to advance professional practices in security management.^[4]

Key Standards and Their Impact

ASIS International has developed several influential standards that address critical areas of security management, providing frameworks for organizations to mitigate risks effectively. One prominent example is the ANSI/ASIS PSC.1-2022, Management System for Quality of Private Security Company Operations – Requirements with Guidance, which outlines requirements for private security providers to ensure ethical operations, risk management, and compliance with international norms such as the Montreux Document.^[64] This standard builds on its 2012 predecessor and has been adopted by global firms like G4S and SOC, enabling certification that enhances service quality and client safety in high-risk environments.^[65]^[66] Another key standard is the ANSI-approved ASIS School Security Standard, released in 2025, which establishes a scalable framework for K-12 institutions to develop security programs encompassing risk assessment, physical measures, behavioral threat evaluation, and emergency response.^[28] This standard promotes proactive safety measures, such as integrating multidisciplinary teams for threat identification, and is designed for schools of varying sizes to foster resilience against incidents like active shooters.^[67] Its impact includes influencing educational policies worldwide by providing evidence-based guidelines that encourage compliance with local regulations and best practices for student protection.^[68] In June 2025, ASIS released the ANSI-approved Investigations (INV) Standard, which provides guidance on conducting efficient, suitable, and cost-effective investigations, including protocols for evidence collection, interviewing, and reporting to support legal and organizational needs.^[69] This standard aids security professionals in managing investigations programs, enhancing compliance and reducing risks in corporate and public sectors. The ASIS Executive Protection Standard, also ANSI-approved and released in 2025, offers detailed guidance on implementing comprehensive executive protection programs, covering threat assessment, advance work, and secure transportation to ensure the safety of high-profile individuals.^[45] It has been adopted by protection firms to standardize practices and improve response to evolving threats. The ASIS Workplace Violence Prevention and Intervention Standard (ASIS WVPI AA-2020), developed in collaboration with the Society for Human Resource Management, offers protocols for identifying, assessing, and responding to threats in organizational settings, including active assailant scenarios.^[70] This guideline has shaped workplace safety programs globally, with organizations using it to implement prevention strategies that align with OSHA recommendations and reduce incident rates through early intervention.^[71] For instance, it has been referenced in corporate policies to establish reporting mechanisms and training, contributing to a decline in workplace violence claims by promoting a culture of awareness and accountability.^[72] Additional notable standards include the ANSI/ASIS PAP.1-2012 (revised 2021), Physical Asset Protection, which guides the design and management of physical security systems to protect organizational assets from threats like theft or sabotage.^[73] This standard has been implemented in industries such as manufacturing and logistics, where case studies demonstrate its role in integrating barriers, surveillance, and access controls to minimize vulnerabilities and achieve cost-effective protection.^[74] Similarly, the ASIS General Security Risk Assessment Guideline, updated as the ASIS SRA-2024 Standard, provides a seven-step process for evaluating security risks across physical, cyber, and human factors.^[75] Its application in sectors like finance has led to tailored risk mitigation plans, influencing regulatory compliance and reducing exposure to emerging threats.^[76] These standards have profoundly impacted the security field by establishing benchmarks for compliance and best practices, with over 16 active ASIS standards and guidelines adopted by thousands of organizations worldwide to enhance operational resilience.^[27] Their global reach is evident in influencing legislation, such as private security regulations in multiple countries, and fostering industry-wide adoption for active shooter responses and violence prevention.^[77] For example, the supply chain risk management focus in standards like ANSI/ASIS SCRM.1-2014 has addressed vulnerabilities in global logistics, helping firms like those in retail implement resilient strategies against disruptions.^[78] Over time, ASIS has evolved its portfolio to tackle emerging risks, including supply chain security and cyber-physical threats, ensuring standards remain relevant through periodic revisions and ANSI accreditation.^[63]

Certifications

Overview of Certification Programs

ASIS International offers a suite of board certifications that validate expertise in key areas of security, establishing global standards for professional competence since the inaugural Certified Protection Professional (CPP) program launched in 1977. This credential, the first of its kind for security managers, addressed the need for recognized mastery in security principles and practices, drawing from practitioner-led development to ensure relevance. The portfolio expanded in the late 1990s with the introduction of the Physical Security Professional (PSP) in 1999, focused on technical physical security design, and the Professional Certified Investigator (PCI) that same year, emphasizing investigative methodologies. Further growth occurred in 2019 with the Associate Protection Professional (APP), an entry-level option covering security fundamentals to support early-career advancement.^[79]^[80] The CPP certification targets senior security managers, demonstrating proficiency in broad security management domains such as risk assessment, business continuity, and personnel security. In contrast, the PSP certification equips professionals with specialized knowledge in physical security systems, including barriers, access controls, and surveillance technologies. The PCI certification highlights skills in investigations, encompassing evidence handling, interviews, and legal compliance. These programs, accredited under ANSI/ANAB to ISO 17024 standards, provide a competitive edge by signaling adherence to best practices and are protected under the U.S. SAFETY Act for anti-terrorism technology validation.^[81]^[82]^[83]^[84] Complementing these, the APP serves as an accessible gateway for emerging professionals, building foundational competencies in security operations and ethics without requiring extensive experience. All certifications require certificants to uphold the ASIS Certification Code of Professional Responsibility, which mandates ethical conduct, integrity, and confidentiality in professional duties, aligning with the broader ASIS Code of Ethics. With more than 12,760 active and lifetime certificants across over 105 countries as of 2024, these programs underscore ASIS's role in fostering a skilled, ethical global security workforce.^[85]^[86]^[27]^[84]

Eligibility, Examination, and Recertification

Eligibility for ASIS International certifications varies by program and is based on professional experience in relevant security fields, with adjustments for educational attainment and prior certifications. For the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) designation, candidates without a degree require seven years of security-related work experience, including three years in responsible charge of a security function; this is reduced to six years (three in responsible charge) with a bachelor's degree or five years (three in responsible charge) with a master's degree. Holding the Associate Protection Professional (APP) certification further reduces these requirements by one year. The Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification, focused on technical physical security applications, requires five years of experience in physical security for those without a degree (or four years with APP), four years with a bachelor's (or three with APP), or three years with a master's. Similarly, the Professional Certified Investigator (PCI) certification, emphasizing investigative practices, mandates five years of investigations experience without a degree (or four with APP), including two years in case management, with equivalent reductions for higher education levels. All applicants must be employed full-time in a security-related role and have no criminal convictions that reflect negatively on the profession.^[84] The certification examinations are computer-based, administered through Prometric testing centers or remotely via proctored options, and consist of multiple-choice questions covering core domains aligned with the respective bodies of knowledge. The CPP exam includes approximately 225 questions (200 scored and 25 pretest), spanning seven domains such as security principles, business principles, and investigations; it lasts four hours with a passing scaled score of 650. In contrast, both the PSP and PCI exams feature about 140 questions (125 scored and 15 pretest) over 2.5 hours, focusing on three domains each— for PSP, these include physical security concepts, implementation, and business practices, while PCI covers investigative principles, practices, and management. Each question presents four options with one correct answer, and the exams draw from ASIS resources like the Protection of Assets manual and relevant standards.^[84]^[81]^[82]^[83] Recertification ensures certificants maintain current knowledge, requiring 60 continuing professional education (CPE) credits over a three-year cycle for each held certification, earned through activities like ASIS seminars, webinars, publications, or professional service. Certificants must submit documentation and pay a fee of $45 for members or $95 for non-members per certification; a six-month extension is available for hardships, with potential waivers or grants through ASIS programs for financial need. Failure to recertify results in lapsed status, requiring re-examination after a grace period.^[87]^[88] Recent enhancements to the certification processes, effective in 2024-2025, include expanded digital exam options with remote proctoring through Prometric's ProProctor system starting January 6, 2025, to improve accessibility, alongside strict measures against AI or proxy testing introduced in February 2024. Inclusivity efforts have been bolstered with updated Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant accommodations, revised October 28, 2025, to support candidates with disabilities during testing.^[84]

ASIS Foundation

Establishment and Purpose

The ASIS Foundation was established in 1966 as a nonprofit affiliate of ASIS International, dedicated to supporting the security profession through targeted educational and research initiatives.^[89] Created to address the growing need for advanced knowledge and skills in security management, the Foundation operates as a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization, enabling it to receive tax-deductible donations and focus exclusively on philanthropic efforts that complement ASIS International's broader mission of advancing professional standards.^[90] This structure allows the Foundation to fund programs that enhance the capabilities of security practitioners worldwide, fostering innovation and resilience in the face of evolving threats. The primary purpose of the ASIS Foundation is to advance the security profession by providing resources for education, research, and humanitarian support, including scholarships for certifications, grants for professional development, and studies on critical security topics.^[89] By prioritizing practical research into areas such as threat assessment, best practices, and regulatory compliance, the Foundation aims to equip professionals with evidence-based tools to protect people, property, and information. Additionally, it extends aid through hardship grants to ASIS members facing personal or professional challenges, thereby promoting equity and sustainability within the global security community.^[89] Governance of the Foundation is handled by a volunteer Board of Trustees, which provides strategic oversight while maintaining independence from ASIS International's operational structure, though it aligns closely with the parent organization's goals.^[89] Day-to-day management is supported by dedicated staff, ensuring efficient administration of programs. Funding is secured annually through donations from individuals, ASIS chapters, corporations, and events, enabling the distribution of over 100 scholarships and grants each year to support emerging and established professionals.^[89] A key focus of the Foundation lies in tackling global security challenges, particularly by investing in underrepresented communities and addressing emerging threats like cybersecurity vulnerabilities and operational disruptions.^[89] This includes targeted scholarships for careers in physical security and digital protection, as well as research projects that explore innovative solutions to transnational risks, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and proactive security landscape.^[89]

Scholarships, Grants, and Research Support

The ASIS Foundation provides extensive scholarships and grants to support the professional development of security practitioners, awarding more than 100 such opportunities annually to advance education, certification, and organizational initiatives in the security field.^[91] These programs target ASIS members, law enforcement personnel, military veterans, and broader security professionals, emphasizing accessibility for underrepresented groups such as women and global applicants.^[32] Scholarships primarily focus on certification and higher education. For professional certifications, the Foundation offers 25 general scholarships covering online review courses and exam fees for designations like Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Associate Protection Professional (APP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), and Professional Certified Investigator (PCI), available to ASIS members in good standing.^[32] Specialized certification scholarships include two for active-duty law enforcement ASIS members and four for active-duty, reserve, or National Guard personnel, each covering similar costs for the same designations.^[32] Additionally, partnerships with the International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) provide five scholarships (plus three in Spanish) for the Certified Protection Officer (CPO) program and four (plus two in Spanish) for Certified in Security Supervision and Management (CSSM), open to all security professionals with some reserved for women; these include correspondence courses and exams.^[32] For senior executives, the Foundation funds one full-tuition scholarship (valued at 4,950 euros) annually to the IE Business School's Effective Management for Security Professionals program, targeting ASIS member chief security officers or equivalents for a five-day course in Madrid, though travel and accommodation are not covered.^[32] Applications for these scholarships typically open in early spring, with deadlines varying by program, and require ASIS membership for most, except IFPO offerings.^[32] Grants support chapters and partnerships rather than individuals. The Public-Private Partnership Excellence Grant awards $4,000 to one full-service law enforcement agency with an active program, nominated by ASIS members or chapters, to enhance collaboration efforts.^[32] Chapter grants cover certification study resources, such as full costs for APP or CPP Starter Kits or 50% for kits serving five members, including shipping and taxes, to facilitate group training.^[32] These grants promote community building and practical application of security knowledge.^[91] Research support constitutes a core pillar of the Foundation's mission, funding practical security management studies to inform industry practices. Guided by a Research Committee, the Foundation typically supports 2-3 projects per year, with budgets and scopes defined through requests for proposals (RFPs) and completion within one year.^[92] Topics address emerging challenges, such as operational resilience—explored in a 2025 project examining its integration with business continuity—and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in corporate security, including best practices and business cases.^[92] Other funded initiatives include security assessments for cultural sites, like the Archaeological Site of Colonia Clunia Sulpicia. Proposals can respond to RFPs or suggest topics via a 1-2 page overview submitted to the committee chair. Research outputs, such as reports on DE&I and operational resilience, are publicly available to advance professional standards.^[92]

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