I first heard about the ISP® Certification during my first June Seminar in Anaheim. I attended a presentation by Dianne Raynor, ISP® and ISP® member, discussing the program and how it benefited those in the Federal Contracting Space. I was immediately blown away by the requirements and level of study that would be needed, I knew this was a certification I needed to pursue. I am in a non-possessing facility but since we are staffing agency, I needed to be aware of the requirements my clients must adhere to, as well as understand how to best brief my associates. I started studying in 2020, as soon as I was eligible. Unfortunately, life had some other plans and the certification was put on the back burner. Flash forward 2022, I was determined to achieve my ISP® certification this year. I began studying again in July, the 32 CFR Part 117 read easier to me than the previous NISPOM. The new EPP program was such a big help! I wasn’t able to attend all the classes as my test was in early October, but the ones I was able to learn from were so helpful! I am very proud to say I was able to pass the test on my first try, I know this is not the case for everyone and don’t give up, you can do this! It is not easy, but the knowledge and confidence I have gained in my pursuit of the ISP® certification is priceless to me!
Stevie Dahl, ISP® #705
The ActOne Group of Companies, Las Vegas, NV
Since achieving the ISP® in 2006, I have had positive experiences where my ISP® was able to assist me in my career field. The first was for job interviews for new employment. I have changed jobs twice since Jun 2006 and both times the ISP® was something that set me apart from other applicants for the same position. On the first job interview in 2008, I was asked what “ISP®” was and that gave me an opportunity to explain it and NCMS in detail. The second job interview came in 2010 and by that time the ISP® designation seemed to be more widely recognized. The ISP® is worn as a badge or accomplishment and has made me more confident in my own abilities which propels me to reach out to help others more. It’s like I have “something” to offer them. The most satisfying thing is to have my advice and guidance accepted by others who seek help from an experienced Industrial Security Professional. I would also like to mention that my responsibilities and salary have more than doubled since earning my ISP® in 2006.
David D. Bledsoe, ISP® #103
Manager of Industrial Security Compliance, Palmetto Chapter, SC
Earning the ISP® certification was a personal challenge and goal I set for myself. Preparing for the exam forced me to take a look at the NISPOM in its entirety and I’m now able to locate a NISPOM reference much faster. Those working with me have a greater sense of confidence that the security guidance I provide is accurate. That is perhaps the greatest benefit of all. The ISP® also benefits my employer by increasing my points in the annual DSS vulnerability assessment score. Anyone who has the opportunity should consider taking the exam.
Zelda Davis, ISP® #492
National Capital Region Chapter, VA
The ISP® Certification has helped me from the day I earned it, starting with a huge raise. The respect for my knowledge among my peers within the company was immediate, and when new security personnel came into the company they would look to me for guidance when confronting issues they were unfamiliar with. The ISP® Certification garnered increased respect as a subject matter expert with the government customers and at Security functions, like NCMS meetings. My ISP® Certification has provided an enhancement during the last few DSS Vulnerability Assessments. The increased confidence and recognition from carrying the ISP® certification also directly led to my current position as a Security Director for a government contractor.
Joe Fulco, ISP® #134
Director or Corporate Security Programs, Quantico Chapter, VA
My ISP® certification has been a great help to me as a security professional as it has increased recognition during DSS Reviews, increases my visibility as a security professional to prospective employers where others who have applied may not have the ISP® certification, and most recently, my resume was given to a senior government official who needed the assistance of a trained, experienced security professional in his work site. Once the individual saw the fact I had the ISP® certification, I was brought onboard the contract immediately. This speaks volumes for how the government sees a certification and the difference it made between my just being experienced and experienced PLUS having a certification.
Debra Holtzclaw ISP® #99
Director of Security, Chesapeake Bay Chapter, MD
Receiving the ISP® certification has helped me professionally on several levels. Career wise, it was one of the deciding factors in my promotion from FSO to Security Manager. On a professional level, it has validated my security experience that I transitioned over from the military. Also, I think it has been a contributing factor in our recent Superior ratings during the DSS Assessments. Looking back, I should have done this sooner. I can’t say enough about the ISP® Exam Prep Program, it really works! As I noted in my article in the NCMS Bulletin (Special Seminar Issue 2011); set a date, send in the application, and “Just do it!”
Rusty Jones, ISP® #256
Security Manager, Florida Sun Coast Chapter, FL
I’m a seasoned industrial security professional where my FSO position is at a geographically separated location from our home office. As such, industrial security becomes one of the several hats I wear to maintain everyday operations. To date, my certification helps out with the DSS assessment score each year in that I receive points for the professional certification. Outside of when I was first certified in 2011, I’ve not noticed any special emphasis placed on having the title within our organization. Still, I actively promote testing for the certification to all who will listen, in that it can lead to many open doors over time. I’m currently mentoring a junior-level security specialist and one of my constant emphasis topics is preparing for the ISP® test. Also, I do my utmost to attend educational opportunities, both CDSE on-line and live, local industry partner events.
Bill Renna, ISP® #350
Southern California Chapter, CA
Obtaining the ISP® certification was a very important milestone for me because it made me realize, there is SOOOO much more to industrial security than the NISPOM! I read the NISPOM from beginning to end, but when I studied for the ISP® exam, I had to expand my resources and I learned so much more. Not only is the ISP® a professional certification, it stands for something - it is a symbol of your expertise and commitment to industrial security. It’s worth every dollar spent obtaining it and every hour spent studying for it!
Tammy Watts, ISP® #244 & SFPC
NCMS Annual National Training Seminar Speakers Chair, Hampton Roads Chapter, VA
Being one of the early ISP®s and in some ways ‘ahead of the game,’ the ISP® designation was slow to be recognized within my company. I believe the recent accreditation enhanced the visibility and now the company is collecting names of all company ISP®s. This brings a heightened sense of recognition, pride, and visibility. I take a fair amount of pride being one of the first!
Dianne Raynor, ISP® #0014
Senior Industrial Security Specialist, Channel Islands Chapter, CA
My ISP® certification has empowered me. Prior to studying for the ISP® and taking the exam, I always felt overwhelmed and unsure – there are so many facets of industrial security and trying to keep up with them was intimidating. Now, I am more confident and it shows – I’m receiving Commendable and Superior ratings, I’m on NCMS committees, and I’m helping others. I have a better relationship with my DSS reps, and I feel the ISP® certification lets them know they can trust me to do what needs to be done.
Virginia Lumsden, ISP® #402
FSO & ISSM, Carolina Chapter, NC
Earning the ISP® certification was the catalyst for my earning the DoD Security Professional Educational Development (SPeD) certifications. The knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program and its related disciplines that I gained through the ISP® has improved my knowledge directly related to my current position. As a Government employee, I successfully used the ISP® Preparation Program to quickly prepare for my SPeD exams and I earned both the Security Asset Protection Professional Certification and the Industrial Security Oversight Certification.
Frank Maguire, ISP® #218
Enterprise Protection Manager, Wright Flyer Chapter, OH
My company heard about the ISP® certification before I came on board. They were so impressed by the ISP® certification that they made it a requirement for the next FSO (me) to obtain that distinction. My initial motivation for getting ISP® certified was to meet my company standard. So I studied, joined the ISP® call-in exam prep and achieved success. Subsequently I noticed there is a level of prestige that goes along with attaining the ISP® certification. Often times when colleges, co-workers, or Hampton Roads area security professionals would bring NISPOM-related issue to me and ask my opinion. Their approach usually premised with “since you’re an ISP®, could you help me with “ …” Being able to help is actually is a good feeling!
Melvin Johnson, ISP® #248
Hampton Roads Chapter, Carrollton, VA
Becoming ISP® certified has really helped my self-confidence level in regard to working as a Facility Security Officer. When the difficult issues arrive, I now have the knowledge and information I need to tackle the tough issues head on and, get the problems resolved according to NISPOM regulation. I recommend becoming ISP® certified to everyone who works within the National Security Sector, it can only benefit their career in the long run.
Joanna M. Wolfe, ISP® #445
Facility Security Officer, NCMS Sky Islands Chapter 41, Sierra Vista, AZ
Even without an immediate bonus or raise tied to achievement of ISP® certification, there are tremendous benefits to be gained for employers in terms of customer and client perception, and personal growth opportunities to be realized for individuals, since ISP® certification demonstrates a desire for higher attainment. ISP® certification contributed to my employer selecting me as a participant in their leadership development program in support of future senior management position opportunities. —July 2008
Teresa J. (Jeannie) Bowden, ISP®, #0156
Aerospace Testing Alliance Arnold AFB, TN
The process of prepping for and finally passing the exam did more than bolster my career. It opened my eyes as to what this single exam has done to our profession. It has professionalized our business more than I could have imagined. I see this as being a big discriminator when reviewing applications/resumes for open positions I may have in the future. It also strengthens my resolve in promoting the ISP® certification program and I am encouraging those in my company and organization to join us in becoming ISP®'s. —July 2008
Rodney C. Morrow, ISP®, #0176
The Boeing Company, Seattle, WA
In October 2006 I moved cross-country for a promotion to the Director of Corporate Security at AAI Corporation. It's a great opportunity and it's the promotion I had been seeking. You will be happy to know that when I applied for this position one of the things the job called for was "ISP® preferred.” I thought that was great and worth sharing. It shows the value of our credential. —October 2006
Leonard Moss Jr., ISP®, #0064
CHS-V, AAI Corporation, Hunt Valley, MD
Earning the ISP® was a tremendous accomplishment as it places us on a similar recognition plateau as the CPP certification for physical security and was a long awaited certification program. I was recognized publicly by the Corporate Director of Security and Safety in our corporate newsletter - "Receiving ISP® certification is a significant accomplishment as it demonstrates that Predmore has the requisite knowledge of NISP policies and procedures and a high degree of professionalism". My DSS representative recognizes the value of the the program and served as my proctor for the exam. This accomplishment was well received by him as well. —July 2008
Jeffrey Predmore, ISP®, #0166
RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, PA
This was a very positive experience for me. I not only had the total support of my supervisors, I had the total support of the ISP® Exam Prep Program mentors. No matter what question I had, it was answered within 24 hours. Studying for this exam has given me a much clearer knowledge of the NISPOM. I also received a bonus, which was partly based on the fact that I was studying and taking the exam. It did not matter whether I passed or not, just the fact that I was willing to put in the time to try. —July 2008
Carol Sixkiller, ISP®, #0188
Clark Construction Group LLC, Bethesda, MD
In late 2006 I moved into this job from Unisys Corp. My ISP certification WAS VERY HELPFUL. Thank you for all your efforts. The ISP® Exam Preparation Program and getting the certification made a huge difference in this career step. Not only to the new company, but for getting me ready to move into a position like this. —November 2006
Patricia A. Williams, ISP®, #0109
SOS International, Reston, VA
Obtaining my ISP® certification was both a personal and professional goal. Although I had worked in contract security for over 23 years, I had only been an FSO for five years. Suddenly I found myself learning all aspects of a security program and no one to ask for help. Through continued NCMS membership, participating in the Exam Preparation Program (EPP), attending the ISP® Boot Camp and a lot of studying, I achieved my goal. I could not have done it without all of these resources, especially my security peers. Further, not only has it made me a more well-rounded security professional, but it allows me to give back through mentoring others. Achieving the ISP® certification is a huge accomplishment for yourself as well as a display of knowledge and dedication to DCSA and the security community.
Rae Yuhas, ISP® #625, FSO
Desert Research Institute, Paradise Chapter, NV
In studying for the ISP® exam (handwriting every answer in the workbook, participating in the call-in sessions), I learned more about the NISPOM than I had known in all the previous years I had been working in the security field. Studying helped me to pass the test on my first attempt in 2007. When I had my Annual DSS Review a few weeks after passing the exam, my DSS Rep informed my management that this was a big accomplishment. In the last several years, our facility has received several Superior ratings in a row. But my proudest moment was when we received the Cogswell Award in 2012. I believe that having the ISP® shows DSS and the security community that we take our work very seriously.
Karen M. Brown, ISP® #136, FSO
Enchantment Chapter, NM
The time and effort I put in to achieve certification certainly made me a better more well-rounded security professional even if I had not passed the test. The increased confidence in my skills and knowledge of the NISP made a big difference in my work performance that was acknowledged by my company with a nice raise and bonus. Something I did not expect was the extra respect I received from DSS and other government security professionals once I had my certification. I believe the ISP® Certification was a major deciding factor when our facility won the James S. Cogswell Outstanding Industrial Security Achievement Award.
Patrick Dale, ISP® #21, FSP/CPSO
Capital Region Chapter, MD
Obtaining the ISP® Certification has impacted me both professionally and personally in so many ways. Professionally, employers & clients respect the Certification and the knowledge and effort to become certified; it is used it proposal submissions and for hiring criteria. It identifies recipients as experts in the Industrial Security profession who are held to the highest ethical and moral standards. Having served as an Exam Preparation Program (EPP) mentor for several years, it has been personally gratifying to know others have been helped on their journey to become certified. It was an honor to join the ISP® community, to contribute as much as possible, and watch the program grow to its phenomenal status. The ISP® Certification is not easily obtained but it is definitely worth the effort!
Liz Fant, ISP® #101
President and General Manager of Consulting Firm, River Region Chapter, TN
Obtaining this designation has enhanced my confidence in managing my company’s security program, and increasing my reputation with the executive and technical staffs. I have become so confident, but never over-confident, that I stepped outside my personal box and became a Chapter Chair for NCMS. I now speak and give presentations to my large chapter, which trickles down to presenting powerful security education to all staff members within the company. It has been a win-win situation for everyone.
Terry A. Green, ISP® #456
Chapter Chair, Washington DC Chapter, DC
Joining NCMS was like being given a beautiful rose bud. Promise and expectation for the blossom was high, but still unmet. When I joined the ISP® study group and ultimately passed the exam the rose was in bloom. As I have worked with our local chapter as an instructor for the past few years the bloom has become exquisite! What a wonderful gift knowledge is!
Bill Johnson, ISP® #317 & LEED® AP
Technical Support Manager & FSO, Mid-South Chapter, AL
I am in a unique position as I help cleared, non-possessing companies to manage their industrial security program. With the new inspection matrix, I have had 3 out of 3 inspectors award "Commendable" to my clients because of 1) quarterly newsletters 2) my working on an NCMS National Committee; and 3) my ISP® certification. They ask for a copy of the ISP® certificate.
Wynn C. Phillips, ISP® #03
Security Consultant, Intermountain Chapter, UT.
I am currently a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO) even though my primary job as CPSO doesn’t officially recognize the ISP® distinction, having achieved the distinction has greatly enhanced my professional security knowledge and increased by security reputation with the local DSS community. Some of my local colleagues are fully aware of this accomplishment and have chosen to pursue this distinction as well. It makes me feel among the elite within the National Industrial Security Program (NISP). I have several unofficial mentees who often look to me for security advice and direction and this is due in part to the ISP® designation. Being an alternate FSO still makes the ISP® an active an valid certification.
Robert J. Ross, ISP #450
CPSO & Alternate FSO, Dallas-Ft. Worth Chapter, TX
Although I’d been a security generalist for over a decade when I became certified, I had not worked with large parts of the NISPOM. I saw the ISP® certification as a way to demonstrate that I was qualified across the broad range of security disciplines we must succeed in when supporting classified government contracts.
William L. Uttenweiler, ISP® #68
Former FSO, Florida Space Coast Chapter, FL
Unforgettable and uplifting experience - from extra peer and management recognition, along with the certification next to the name, very distinguished certificate and special pin – a milestone achievement with many returns. Only one regret – not becoming an ISP® sooner!
Robert J. Winslett, ISP® #424
Alternate FSO, Alamo Chapter, TX
I was one of the first members to take and luckily pass the ISP® exam in 2004. I remember lugging all of my references materials to Reno (yes, it was before the online test…). I was so very excited when my name was on “the list” of those who passed!! Over the years the ISP® certification has definitely served me well and I count it as one of the reasons why I have my current management position. I am also grateful to have served on the NCMS Board for 6 years and was on the board when the membership voted for the ISP® board requirement. The program has evolved over the years and is truly recognized in the Industrial Security community as the certification to possess. I am proud to be an ISP® and look forward to the online re-certification program in the future.
Debbie Young, ISP® #46
Security Compliance Manager, Valley of the Sun Chapter, AZ
The knowledge that I gained from studying for the ISP® exam was a real confidence builder for me as a security professional. Earning the ISP® certification brought recognition and respect from my employer, my peers and many of the customers that I work with. I received a raise, have been sought out to mentor some of the small business FSO’s that I work with and it has benefited myself/our company in the DSS Vulnerability Assessments. I would highly encourage everyone to sign up and take the ISP® exam. It has been a tremendous benefit to me!
Tania Leppert, ISP® #270
FSO, Capital Region Chapter, VA
Becoming an NCMS-certified Industrial Security Professional (ISP®) has provided me numerous benefits beyond the maintenance of technical proficiency. Since becoming certified, I’ve had inquiries from senior executives, both within and outside my company, regarding the nature of the ISP® certification program. This enabled me the opportunity to reinforce the rigor of our profession which was met with a higher degree of respect for the services we perform. Further, I’ve found the ISP® certification to be an attestation of competence to U.S. Government agencies conducting security audits and vulnerability assessments. This was a direct benefit to both me and my employer. Finally, I’ve been approached from other companies and recruiting agencies who were looking for Security professionals and viewed the ISP® as a reflection of expertise as a security professional. I highly value the ISP® program and have encouraged peers, associates and direct reports to consider this valuable opportunity.
Jim Snodgrass, ISP® #421
Director of Security, Washington DC Chapter, Arlington, VA
After receiving my ISP®, certification, I do feel more confident in my skills as a security professional. I also feel that upper management now sees me in a “different light” and asks for advice more readily on various topics. I have had increased reputation among my and peers and many FSOs have asked for my help and/or my opinion on security issues that have come up. I have even encouraged a few FSO’s to obtain their certification too! I am a volunteer proctor for the ISP®, exams and I have joined the NCMS Website Committee. Obtaining the ISP®, certification helped gain increased recognition during DSS Vulnerability Assessments, and we all know how important those enhancements are! The ISP®, exam was very tough but also very much worth taking. I didn’t pass it on my first try, and was so very disappointed, but I didn’t give up. I was determined to pass so I studied for it again and re-took the exam the following year at the NCMS Seminar and I was not disappointed the second time! The feeling of accomplishment and pride I felt after seeing my name on the passing list was just amazing! Obtaining your ISP® certification is definitely worth the effort and hard work it takes. I still feel pride in myself that I can add that title to my accomplishments!
Barbara A. Bellagamba, ISP® #342
Corporate Facility Security Officer, New England Chapter, Middleton, RI
My manager said congratulations, but was not initially sure how my certification benefited the company – I guess that’s how it is sometime. I on the other hand gained: Confidence in my knowledge of the security field -- when I speak I know what I am saying is correct. I also received a commendable rating on my DSS inspection this past June -- my DSS rep was very impressed with my accomplishment. My ISP® Certification was one of the many “above and beyond” categories for such a rating. But most of all, I am very proud of myself. After taking the course and failing the exam the first time, I must admit I didn’t think I had it in me to take the exam again. When I retook the exam the second time (my Proctor allowed me to come to her home, more comfortable surroundings) and I passed. There was no better feeling. You see I knew that I know security, but from the very beginning taking the exam and becoming ISP® Certified was for the “feather in my cap”. I wanted to solidify my place in the security profession and I have. All though I did not get the accolades I should have received (company wise); I have “self gratification”, the greatest accolade of all. —July 2008
Mia L. Haynes, ISP®, #0169
Alion Science and Technology, Alexandria VA
Since I went completed the ISP® program, I have noticed a distinct difference in my standing in the community and within my own company. My chain of command often refers to the accomplishment and I am considered a resource for anyone, company wide, that requires assistance. Both my reputation and my salary have benefited from this process. Not to mention the confidence and accomplishment I feel for having gone through it - I would do it again in a heartbeat! —August 2008
Shona Nietsche, ISP®, #0148
Raytheon Company, Aurora, CO
At the 2006 Cogswell Awards ceremony there were three current ISP® and two ISP® candidates from the Exam Prep Program. I think it demonstrates that ISP®s have mastered the various industrial security disciplines and it shows in their security programs. —September 2006
Patricia D. Robbins, ISP®, #0085
Cubic Applications Inc., Lacey, WA
Although I’d been a security generalist for over a decade (FSO for my company’s office on Vandenberg AFB, CA), I did not work with large parts of the NISPOM. I saw the ISP® certification as a way to demonstrate that I was qualified across the broad range of security disciplines we must succeed in when supporting classified government contracts. —September 2005
William L. Uttenweiler, ISP®, #0068
The Aerospace Corporation, Cape Canaveral AFS, FL
I cannot express how fullfilling having ISP® after my name is. I was so excited after taking the exam and learing I had passed! What an amazing feeling of accomplishment because I know it took a lot of time and hard work to earn. It has also given me confidence in myself as there are sections in the NISPOM that I never knew existed because I never had the need to use the information. In addition, since obtaining my ISP, our company has come under FOCI [Foreign Ownership, Control, Influence] and my knowledge of a Proxy Agreement versus an SAA is invaluable! —September 2010
Sherry W. Wildman, ISP®, #0285
Integraph, Reston, VA