Originating in ancient Rome, the role of security guards has undergone centuries of transformation, becoming increasingly critical and socially significant in response to the rising threats to individual and public safety. In today's world, marked by armed conflicts, violent confrontations, and mass shootings—not to mention the pervasive risks of theft and trespass—advanced safety measures have evolved from a precaution to an indispensable necessity. As criminal activities get more elaborate and technologically advanced, contemporary security services need to evolve accordingly, staying ahead of a diverse array of emerging threats, ranging from cyber breaches to terrorist attacks.
To shed light on behind-the-scenes operation of professional organizations ensuring individual and public safety, we interviewed Samuel Hanna, the Head and CEO of AAA Security Guard Services, the leading security provider in the US with advanced specialization in covering large-scaled events, major businesses, and sensitive infrastructures. Hanna’s company is widely know for handling the security at the top iconic state festivals, such as Lewisville Fair and Southlake Fair. Both are the highly popular annual cultural events attracting multi-national audience from all over the world. AAA Security Guard Services has also been publicly praised for its major contributions to ensuring the safety of Texas schools and its students, particularly, during the mass events, such as school matches.
Having spent years in technology-enhanced security management, Hanna has earned international recognition for his innovative approach to blending traditional security with next generation technologies and emerging trends, positioning AAA Security Guard Services as the number one choice for high-profile and large-scaled events requiring enhanced technological solutions, multiple checkpoints, tailored plans, navigation of compliance complexities across jurisdictions, and direct coordination with law enforcement services.
“The most acute issues of our industry revolve around staffing, training, and adapting to the exponentially evolving security threats”, comments Hanna. “Retention of qualified personnel is a major challenge as intense work in security sector can get extremely demanding, both physically and mentally. Which is why we developed special training programs that are uniquely tailored to equip every employee at AAA Security Guard Services LLC with all the necessary skills required not only to maintain the highest security standards, but also prepare our guards to handle any non-standard situation and adjust to any kind of environment, such as situational awareness, crisis management, de-escalation, negotiation, and first aid.”
In addition, Hanna expands on the emerging critical challenge of cyber-physical threats. “Even the top-quality physical security services can no longer stand alone without the integration of advanced digital security layers”, he explains. “This is especially critical when it comes to protecting sensitive information or valuable assets, but also relevant in traditional bodyguarding, which nowadays requires advanced technological equipment that ensures real-time communication, alert systems, and immediate response.”
“Therefore, our organization involves an intricate blend of classical guard services and the most innovative tech-driven solutions emerging across the world, such as monitoring software or real-time incident reporting through the Guardix app”, continues Hanna. “Besides providing professional security officers’ services, we also offer CCTVS-based remote patrol, as well as mobile patrol that covers multiple locations at the same time, relying on digital solutions to act swiftly, as well as keep clients informed about any potential threats.”
“It is also essential to balance safety requirements with the environment we operate in”, he adds. “Ensuring security in schools demands a thoughtful and specialized approach, as it involves unique challenges that differ significantly from other environments. Security personnel must not only prioritize the safety of students and staff but also ensure that their presence does not interfere with the primary objective of schools: fostering a positive and productive learning environment. To achieve this balance, security guards need to possess a special blend of technical and interpersonal skills.”
“They must be adept at maintaining a calm and reassuring demeanor, as a sense of militarized presence can inadvertently create an atmosphere of fear or tension among children”, expands Hanna. “Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are essential to address potential issues without escalating them, ensuring that students feel safe yet comfortable. Additionally, security strategies must be tailored to the school setting, taking into account factors such as age-appropriate interactions, the developmental needs of children, and the importance of preserving an open, welcoming atmosphere.”
“Another example is providing security services at large-scale festivals with a cross-cultural audience”, he adds. “The diversity in attendees’ cultural norms, behaviors, and expectations requires security teams to be not only vigilant but also culturally sensitive. For instance, what may be considered acceptable behavior in one culture might be perceived as inappropriate or threatening in another, necessitating nuanced conflict resolution skills. Language barriers can further complicate effective communication during emergencies or routine interactions, making multilingual staff or clear, universally understood signage essential.”
“The lack of attention to detail in managing security services can lead to severe consequences, including a real threat to public safety”, summarizes Hanna. “Creating tailored security coverage plans for each industry in essential in fighting increased crime rates, vulnerability to cyberattacks, theft, and irreparable property damage, while failure to do so can disrupt economic activities, erode trust in institutions, and endanger human lives and health. Even the most critical infrastructures, such as healthcare, financial systems, and utilities, have become susceptible to serious breaches. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to maintain robust security frameworks that include advanced surveillance systems, comprehensive personnel training, and proactive risk assessments, which is the main focus of AAA Security Guard Services.”
