Education

Safety Beyond
the Classroom Walls

Parents and educators alike place their trust in educational institutions to provide a safe haven for learning where students can thrive and excel without fear. This sacred trust is one we take seriously.

Defender One, stands as guardians of this trust, offering highly trained armed and unarmed security guards to safeguard the well-being of students, teachers, and educational personnel. Our team is comprised of individuals deeply versed in school safety protocols, and credentialed as School Resource Officers through the National Association of School Resource Officers program. Which, in fact, is the same way that local law enforcement receive their training.

We seamlessly integrate into your school’s existing security framework, ensuring a cohesive approach to safety. Our School Resource Officers (SROs) are adept at managing a spectrum of situations, from routine disciplinary issues to potential crisis events, with professionalism and expertise.

In addition to our School Resource Officer services, we offer a comprehensive suite of services including conflict resolution, student mentoring, and emergency preparedness training.

When our guards are assigned to any educational facility, we verify their certifications are current, and ensure they have the State-mandated training before they arrive on site. The safety and well-being of your staff and students is our #1 priority.

Defender One's Key Components

CAMPUS SAFETY: A VIGILANT PRESENCE

School Resource Officers (SROs) play a pivotal role in maintaining a secure learning environment by proactively identifying potential security threats and implementing preventative measures. Their intimate knowledge of the school’s layout and established procedures allows them to respond promptly and effectively to incidents, safeguarding the well-being of all school community members.

NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS: BEYOND SECURITY

Our SROs are committed to building positive and supportive relationships with students, serving as mentors and role models. They collaborate closely with faculty and school administration to develop and implement programs that foster personal responsibility, respect, and good citizenship. These initiatives contribute significantly to creating a harmonious and inclusive school atmosphere.

THREAT ASSESSMENT & INTERVENTION: PREVENTING THE UNFORESEEN

Defender One Security equips its SROs with comprehensive training in threat assessment and crisis intervention, enabling them to recognize warning signs and take appropriate action to prevent potential incidents. Their expertise in this critical area plays a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for all students and school personnel.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE: READY WHEN NEEDED

Our SROs collaborate closely with school administrators to craft and regularly update emergency preparedness plans. Through conducting drills, offering staff training, and coordinating with local law enforcement and emergency services, they ensure a seamless and effective response to any crisis. Our proactive approach guarantees that the school community is always prepared to navigate any emergency situation with confidence.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION: BUILDING A SAFE HAVEN TOGETHER

We foster open communication and partnerships with parents, local law enforcement, and other community stakeholders. Our SRO’s serve as liaisons between the school and the broader community, actively engaging in collaborative efforts to promote school safety and address any concerns that may arise. This holistic approach fosters a sense of shared responsibility and ensures that the entire community is invested in creating a safe and nurturing environment for all students.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH

Defender One prioritizes the needs and concerns of students, parents, and staff in safeguarding their physical and digital well-being within the educational environment. This approach emphasizes open communication, transparency, and collaboration among all stakeholders to effectively manage and mitigate security risks. By prioritizing the customer experience, institutions can create a safer and more secure learning environment that promotes trust, peace of mind, and academic success.

PROTECTING STUDENTS & TEACHERS FROM CRIME

At Defender One Security, our guards undergo comprehensive training in various aspects of security, encompassing emergency response, conflict de-escalation, and active shooter scenarios. We understand there are unique challenges and requirements for each school. Rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach, we collaborate closely with school administrators to develop custom security solutions.

Tailored Security Enhancements

Access Control: Designed and installed at entrances and exits, these systems grant access to authorized personnel and students.

Surveillance: Our team is able to manage sophisticated surveillance equipment. We work alongside you to determine the ideal configuration and ensure you remain informed about the activities within your school’s premises.

Vehicle Patrol: Vehicle patrols play a crucial role in maintaining the overall safety of expansive campuses and universities. Our officers can conduct patrols in marked and unmarked vehicles, efficiently addressing situations as they arise.

Keep Your School Secure – Build Your Safety Plan Today!

Our proactive approach to school security with trained and licensed school resource officers ensures a safe learning environment, preventing potential threats, and swiftly addressing security concerns.

Chad Emrick

Scheduling Adminstrator

As Scheduling Administrator, Chad leverages twenty years of administrative and management experience to enhance Defender One’s operational excellence. For Chad, the scheduling process is like putting together a puzzle—finding just the right pieces to fill every slot. His strategic mindset and knack for process optimization have consistently elevated his organizational efficiency. The security industry is 24/7. Thus, Chad’s methodical preparation and adaptable management style keeps our operations running smoothly.

When not orchestrating schedules at Defender One, Chad dedicates himself to his treasured role— a devoted family man. He and his wife Wanda have raised four remarkable children. Most recently, adding a new dimension to his life’s joy is his grandson, Leo.

Phil Kline

Regional Manager – Baltimore Metro Region

Phil’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Military Police Officer. His training as an Internal Response Unit member equipped him with essential skills in safety, security, and crisis management. One of his most fulfilling experiences was responding to Hurricane Sandy, where he played a vital role in assisting those affected by the disaster.

Following his military service, Phil transitioned to the building supply industry, where he spent a decade as an Operations and Sales Manager. During this time, he honed his leadership, process improvement, and industry analysis skills. His passion for identifying opportunities and driving positive change has been a constant throughout his career.

With a strong foundation in problem-solving and a resilient mindset, Phil is dedicated to applying his expertise to create impactful solutions. Whether leading teams, optimizing processes, or tackling complex challenges, he approaches every task with integrity and a focus on results.

Outside of work, Phil is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and camping. One of his most memorable adventures was conquering the challenging hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

Walter Leslie Jr.

Operations Manager

Walter is an observant and vigilant, safety-driven security professional with 14+ years of leadership experience across commercial, residential, and corporate security sectors. Walter offers extensive expertise in developing and executing comprehensive physical security procedures and protocols. Specializing in risk assessments, he has successfully implemented mitigation strategies for clients, reducing potential security threats.

Outside of work, he is family-oriented and enjoys traveling with his wife Jackie, and their dog Aries. He is an avid sports enthusiast and loves the Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals.

Cynthia Cox

Human Resources Manager

With 21 years of management experience across various industries, including staffing, transportation, small business ownership, accounting, and operations, Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust skill set to Defender One. Her diversified background has equipped her with a keen understanding of multiple business domains, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Matthew Goodman

Assistant Director of Operations
Matt currently serves as Defender One’s Assistant Director of Operations. Matt is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Defender One and works closely with the Director of Operations & Training to implement goals and objectives for the company. As a nationally certified School Resource Officer and Force Science Analyst, Matt brings an interpersonal and holistic approach to the industry. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from York College. Outside of work, Matt is an avid outdoorsmen, spending time perfecting his landscaping skills. Matt also enjoys quality time with his wife Ashley, and two cats, Ollie and Leo, as well as watching the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.

Jennifer Krieger

Director of Human Resources
Jen currently serves as Defender One’s Director of Human Resources, managing our HR and back end finance teams. Jen has 30 years of experience in healthcare benefits administration, retirement benefits, financial planning and human resources. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Loyola University. Jen prioritizes an employee focused and driven company, with an emphasis on client and employee satisfaction. Outside of work, Jen enjoys running, watching her daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse, and playing with her grand-dogs.

Jared Krieger

Director of Operations & Training

Jared serves as the Director of Operations & Training at Defender One, where he oversees the company’s operations and staff training programs. He holds a Master of Science in Homeland Security & Disaster Management and a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security & Counterterrorism. He is a Certified Security Project Manager and is board-certified in security management. He is also board-certified as a Physical Security Professional by the American Society of Industrial Security. As an accredited law enforcement instructor, Jared specializes in multiple disciplines, including Firearms, OC Spray, Expandable Baton, Handcuff Techniques, Taser, Defensive Tactics, and Force Science Analytics.

Outside of work, Jared enjoys traveling and spending time with his girlfriend and their three dogs.

Jon Krieger

Owner
Jon is the President and Founder of Defender One. Jon started Defender One in 2009, with the goal of bridging the gap between conventional security guards and law enforcement. Jon had a long and distinguished career in a large metropolitan police department for over 30 years, holding supervisory positions in several units, including patrol, internal affairs, traffic and community outreach. Jon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park. Outside of work, Jon spends his time spoiling his grand-dogs Fred and Barney, supporting the Ravens and Orioles, and watching his daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse.