A Richmond-based security firm is teaming up with local partners to offer free entry-level training that can help residents land security jobs.
VIP Protective Services announced a partnership with Wise Choice Special Services, the Richmond Chamber of Commerce and Richmond nonprofit By Example to provide no-cost classes for the mandatory 8-hour Powers to Arrest course required to obtain a California Guard Card. The class typically costs $100. Participants will only be responsible for state fees: $94 for Live Scan fingerprinting/WCSS rolling and $55 for the California BSIS Guard registration — a combined $149.
The program is open to Richmond residents, veterans and people employed in the city, including those in unincorporated areas such as North Richmond. Organizers say the effort is designed to expand employment opportunities and make state licensing more accessible.
VIP Protective Services, which has trained workers across the Bay Area for nearly two decades and operates facilities in Hilltop Richmond and Vallejo, offers more than 30 specialized security courses. The company previously collaborated with RichmondWORKS and GRIP on workforce initiatives. Training and instruction will be led in partnership with Wise Choice Special Services, headed by U.S. Navy veteran Antonio L. Wise, Sr., and Vernette A. Suggs, who together bring decades of experience in security, law enforcement training and mental health.
How to enroll: Interested candidates can call (888) 491-3785 to learn more and sign up for a free class.