By Sandy Austin Goldstein
Orion Protective Services, Inc., a leading security guard staffing firm headquartered in New
England, just launched a new program called “Boots to Badges.” This initiative aims to support
the transition of veterans and active-duty military personnel into civilian security roles by
covering the costs associated with state licensing requirements.
Addressing
Financial Obstacles
Making the shift from military service to a civilian career in security involves financial investment
by the applicant. Associated fees include costs for services such as fingerprinting, background
checks, and passport photos. These fees can reach $35 per applicant in Massachusetts and up
to $160 in Connecticut. Although Connecticut exempts most military personnel from classroom
requirements, economic hurdles remain.
Recognizing these challenges, Orion Protective Services’ President and CEO, Edward
Ramsdell, emphasized the company’s commitment to removing such obstacles. “The goal of the
Boots to Badges program is to eliminate any financial barriers and make it easier for active-duty
military and veterans to pursue a career in security,” Ramsdell said. “By covering these key
expenses, Orion aims to ease the transition for those who have served our country and provide
them with opportunities for a successful civilian career.”
Eligibility and Program Details
The Boots to Badges program is open to veterans who were honorably discharged within the
last two years as well as active-duty service members and reservists who have worked at Orion
Protective Services for at least three months. The program is designed to align with state
requirements to ensure that all participants meet the necessary standards for getting licensed
as security guards.
Leadership Perspective
“We recognize the immense value that military experience brings to the security field,” Ramsdell
stated. “The discipline, leadership skills, and commitment to teamwork that active-duty soldiers
and veterans have make them ideal candidates for roles at Orion Protective Services. We are
immensely grateful for the sacrifices made by our service members, and the Boots to Badges
program is our way of tangibly expressing that gratitude.”
Supporting Successful Transitions
By removing financial hurdles, Orion Protective Services is not only opening doors to rewarding
security careers but also demonstrating how businesses can actively support and empower
veterans. “This is about more than recruiting top talent—it’s about investing in those who have made sacrifices for our country and helping them successfully transition to the next chapter of
their careers,” Ramsdell added.
Through their sponsorship of the Boots to Badges initiative, Orion Protective Services reaffirms
its dedication to supporting military members and veterans. By streamlining access to new
career opportunities and expressing a genuine appreciation for their service, Orion sets a new
benchmark for how companies can honor and empower those who have served.
About Orion Protective Services, Inc.
Orion Protective Services, Inc. has provided security services for clients throughout New
England since 2010. Security is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so Orion does not take an
indistinguishable blanket approach. We take the time to ask the important questions so that we
can provide a tailored solution that aligns with the client’s goals, agenda, and is a good fit for the
firm’s or community’s culture.
Orion’s management and staff have the high level of expertise needed to provide custom
security protection for a wide variety of customers, including residential communities, corporate
complexes, municipalities, schools, construction sites and retail establishments. Orion has its
headquarters in East Windsor, Connecticut, with satellite offices throughout Connecticut and
Massachusetts, enabling them to provide immediate, around-the-clock support and arrive at
client locations in 30 minutes or less.
https://orionprotectivesvcs.com
About the Author
Sandy Austin Goldstein
Director of Communications, Orion Protective Services, Inc.
Sandy Austin Goldstein is the Director of Communications for Orion Protective Services, Inc., a premier security staffing firm serving clients across New England since 2010. She leads the company’s communications efforts, highlighting Orion’s commitment to delivering customized, high-quality security solutions. Headquartered in East Windsor, Connecticut, with satellite offices throughout the region, Orion is known for its experienced team, rapid response capabilities, and tailored approach to meeting the unique needs of each client.
