Harkcon Teams with Florida State University on Port Security Project
MCLEAN, Va. – Harkcon partnered with Florida State University's (FSU) Learning Systems Institute to design, develop and then pilot test crucial port security training courses. World-renowned for its training development capabilities, FSU won a grant in 2005 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to develop a port security program of instruction to be implemented in ports around the country. This performance-based training program is designed to train security personnel in the prevention and deterrence of terrorist attacks in ports along the 95,000 miles of U.S. coastline. The training incorporates real-time drills, exercises and scenarios specifically developed for the full range of port security operations, and captures the full scope of security forces required for typical port scenarios under both current and projected threat levels. FSU was quick to enlist Harkcon as its single source of subject matter expertise. Harkcon leveraged its extensive experience, background and network of port security professionals to provide subject matter and instructional design support to FSU. Mindful of post-9/11 security changes, Harkcon was especially meticulous in its research and documentation of statutory and other port security requirements. All course material was systematically reviewed for content accuracy, applicability and compliance with Federal Regulation requirements. Harkcon pilot tested the course materials at the Ports of Cape Canaveral, Fla. and Charleston, S.C., assisting FSU in obtaining joint Coast Guard and Maritime Administration certification. According to one Port of Charleston law enforcement officer who participated in the pilot program, "All of the lessons in the Seaport Security for Law Enforcement Officers Course were important. I thought I was completing [vehicle] screenings correctly; however I learned I was missing some key areas." FSU has now certified Harkcon as its exclusive commercial training provider for these courses. "We are honored to partner with such an illustrious educational institution to develop top-notch training aimed at protecting U.S. citizens, resources and infrastructure – starting at our ports," said Harkcon President and CEO Dr. Kevin Harkins. "Harkcon looks toward a future of implementing this crucial training at ports in the United States and around the world."
