Unveiling Innovative Training for Specialized Data Center Security

As global reliance on data centers surges, so do the demands for highly trained security personnel to protect these mission-critical infrastructures. The complexity of modern data centers—ranging from physical access requirements to AI-integrated systems—requires a new caliber of officer. According to Uptime Institute, 60% of data center outages cost more than $100,000, emphasizing the importance of expertly trained security staff in preventing high-stakes disruptions.

How can security teams evolve to meet the specialized needs of today’s data center environments, and what does it take to become a “data center-ready” officer?

In this episode of Security Connected by Securitas North America, Milton Plet, Senior Vice President for Global Clients, and Bert Den Hartog, Vice President for Global Clients at Securitas’ Data Center Group, discuss the company’s groundbreaking approach to specialized training in data center security. Together, they explore the industry’s first globally certified data center security professional training, designed to close the skill gap, empower career growth, and redefine what excellence in mission-critical security looks like.

The main topics of conversation…

• Certified for Complexity: Securitas’ new program is the first globally certified training specifically tailored to the data center environment, equipping officers with skills to meet the high demands of this intricate field.
• Client-Centric Co-Creation: The training program was developed collaboratively with data center clients and subject matter experts, ensuring alignment with real-world operational challenges.
• Future-Proofing Security: With plans to scale training to over 10,000 officers, Securitas is embedding AI integration and advanced modules to develop the “officer of the future.”

Milton Plet is a seasoned security executive with over two decades of international experience across operations, account management, and global client strategy within Securitas. He currently serves as Senior Vice President for Global Clients in the Data Center Group, leading service innovation for high-demand, mission-critical environments. With a background in law enforcement and progressive leadership roles in Europe and North America, Plet brings deep expertise in risk management, client partnership development, and workforce transformation in the security industry.

Bert Den Hartog is a Vice President for Global Clients at Securitas with a career that exemplifies upward mobility, rising from a frontline officer to senior leadership. He is passionate about professional development, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and providing the right tools for growth. With deep insight into the security industry’s evolving challenges, he is focused on solving the critical issue of talent readiness for the complex and high-stakes demands of data center environments.