The Pulse Employee Newsletter
May 2026: Issue 58
Our newsletter contains stories about our clients, vendors and employees. If you have a story to share, email marketing@protossecurity.com. This month, we’re excited to announce our 27th group of Unite in Action Award recipients. Read on to find out who the winners are!
We’re excited to officially welcome AT-RISK International to the Protos family following the announcement of our recent acquisition. This marks an important milestone in Protos’ continued growth and strengthens our position as a leader in software-enabled security and risk management solutions.
By combining Protos’ nationwide security services platform with AT-RISK International’s expertise in executive protection, intelligence, investigations and enterprise risk management, we are expanding the value and capabilities we can offer our clients across a broader range of security challenges.
This partnership allows us to deliver even more comprehensive and integrated solutions while continuing to invest in innovation, operational excellence and client experience. Together, our organizations bring complementary strengths, deep industry expertise and a shared commitment to protecting people, brands and assets.
Looking Ahead
As we begin this next chapter together, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead for our teams, clients and partners. The acquisition reflects Protos’ long-term vision for growth and our commitment to building the future of security through scalable solutions, advanced technology and exceptional service delivery.
To read the full announcement, visit:
https://protossecurity.com/news/protos-security-acquires-at-risk-international/
Unite in Action Award Nomination Form
Help Us Choose Our Next Unite in Action Award Recipients: (Who do you want to nominate…?)
Any employee within the organization (yes, that includes you!) can nominate someone for the Unite in Action Award. In fact, we need your help to make this award happen. Please nominate your colleagues and peers as you recognize them aligning with one or more of our values. An explanation of each value is below:
- Stay Curious: We keep learning and discovering how to improve, which sometimes means changing the way we do things.
- Build Relationships: We value the trust between our colleagues, clients, vendors and security personnel to strengthen camaraderie.
- Take Ownership: We champion self-accountability and push boundaries to achieve shared success.
- Be Principled: We show integrity in every decision and always do the right thing.
If you feel that a team member has gone above and beyond and displayed one or more of these values, make sure to let us know! The Unite in Action Awards will be announced monthly, but we always accept nominations through the Unite in Action Award Form.
Unite in Action Award Winners
The Unite in Action Awards will be presented to up to four employees each month. These individuals will be nominated by their peers or managers as someone who embodies our values.
Recipients receive the Unite in Action Award trophy and a branded gift!
Congratulations to our winners... drumroll please...
Joseph Di Bella, Key Accounts Manager
Protos
Nominated by: Jeremy Costlow
Reason:
Joe consistently demonstrates strong principles in his work, approaching every responsibility with integrity, professionalism, and full ownership. Since joining Protos, he has taken complete accountability for his role and outcomes, ensuring his clients receive an exceptional experience at all times.
A clear example of this occurred just 24 hours ago with a new Skechers rollout. On day one, the engagement was at risk of imploding when the client notified us they were immediately cutting locations and reducing hours by 30%. The potential impact to Protos, our internal teams, and our vendor partners was significant, creating a major logistical and operational challenge.
Amanda Jenkins, Scrum Product Owner
Protos
Nominated by: Jay Beldon
Reason:
Amanda is one of our Product Owner in Labs, and she's not afraid to take ownership and jump in to assist our QA team in testing various features to enable our continuous delivery pipeline and get our features delivered to our stakeholders and users of our system. She's always willing to help and goes the extra mile showing integrity and offering assistance to anyone who needs it without being asked.
Important Observances in May
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month serves as an important reminder to prioritize mental health and well-being, both personally and professionally.
National Police Week, observed annually during the week of May 15, is a time to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the country
Memorial Day, is observed annually on the last Monday in May and is a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
FEATURED BLOG ARTICLE
Petrochemical Facility Security: Managing Insider Threats, Theft and Organized Crime
This blog explores the growing security challenges facing petrochemical and energy facilities, including insider threats, theft and organized criminal activity. It highlights how high-risk periods such as refinery turnarounds can increase vulnerabilities and outlines the importance of layered security strategies, including access control, remote monitoring and specialized guarding solutions. Drawing on industry expertise and real-world risks, the blog emphasizes how customized security programs can help facilities strengthen protection, maintain compliance and support safe operations.
This article is part of our Petrochemical and Energy Security series, which focuses on the unique risks and security considerations impacting critical infrastructure and industrial operations. Be sure to explore the full series in the Knowledge Hub.
Employee Spotlight
Angie Velasquez
Manager of Human Resources – Blue Star
How long have you been with the company?
Since November of 2025
What is your current job title?
Human Resources Manager
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love to stay active with hikes, jogging, as well as checking out new restaurants and bars throughout Los Angeles. When I stay home, I enjoy playing video games and spending time with my pup, Captain.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I really enjoy the heat so anywhere tropical with a nice beach is my go to spot.
What is your favorite food?
Roasted Bone Marrow! Yum!
What is your favorite band, artist, or music genre?
I can listen to just about anything. Lately, Billie Eilish has been my go-to, along with Cannons and Kendrick Lamar. When I’m feeling nostalgic, it's Fleetwood Mac or Red Hot Chili Peppers. I also love some Bad Bunny. I really am all over with my music... I guess it's just country that doesn't make the list.
What is your favorite book?
It's a recent book I read The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
Do you have any pets?
Sure do.. Captain!
Any interesting facts about you?
I was supposed to go into the Air Force... I was sworn in and everything. Ask me about it next time we talk!
We want to hear from you!
Interested in being the next employee featured?
Our employee recognition programs are in full swing across our different offices. The Roanoke, VA and Houston, TX offices launched the “Protos Props” program which awards employees for their contributions and hard work.
The Protos Props recipient this month is:
- Lauren West, Dispatch Fulfillment Agent, Protos
Keep up the great work!
Green Out Wednesdays
Congratulations to our May Green Out Wednesday raffle winner!
May winner: Brian Fermin, Staff Accountant I
About Green Out Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, wear our team color, GREEN, with pride! While green represents the Protos logo, it also symbolizes growth, harmony and balance. By wearing green together, we celebrate our company spirit and our commitment to supporting one another and Protos’ success.
How It Works
Participation is optional. Each Wednesday you wear green and submit a photo you will receive a raffle entry for that week. All entries go toward both a monthly prize drawing and a special year-end prize! The monthly prize is any item from the Protos company store with a $25 limit.
How to Enter: Email your photo to Cathy Padula - cpadula@protossecurity.com.
Let’s have fun, show off our Protos pride and continue building strong connections as a team! Stay tuned for future winner announcements!
Recent & Upcoming Events
2026 Tradeshow Season
Recent:
April 27-28
Nashville Security Summit
This summit brought together security leaders and practitioners to focus on real-world challenges, emerging threats and practical solutions across the industry. This event offered attendees the opportunity to gain actionable insights, explore new technologies and connect with peers working to advance safety and security programs.
May 5-6
Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) Conference
This conference brought together transportation and supply chain security professionals to discuss evolving cargo crime trends, risk mitigation strategies and best practices for protecting global supply chains. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from industry experts, explore innovative security solutions and network with peers focused on advancing supply chain resilience and operational security.
May 13
Atlanta Apartment Association (AAA) Trade Show
This trade show brought together multifamily housing professionals, property management teams and industry vendors to explore the latest products, services and solutions supporting apartment communities. Attendees had the opportunity to network with industry peers, discover innovative technologies and gain insights focused on improving operations, resident experience and property security.
Upcoming:
June 8-10
NRF (National Retail Federation) Protect Conference
Held in Grapevine, Texas, retail and loss prevention professionals will gather to discuss emerging retail security challenges, evolving technologies and strategies for protecting people, products and operations.
June 17-19
Apartmentalize
Apartmentalize, held in New Orleans, will bring together multifamily housing leaders, property management professionals and industry partners for several days of education, collaboration and innovation. This event will explore trends impacting the rental housing industry, connect with peers and vendors, and gain valuable insights into operational excellence, resident engagement and community safety initiatives.
Want to see our full events schedule? Stay up to date with our 2026 events page: https://protossecurity.com/our-events/
Meeting and Event Updates
National Field Operations Expansion
National Field Operations continues to grow with the addition of new team members supporting expansion efforts across the country. Sean Cook (new person, same name) recently joined the team as Northwest Field Operations Manager and is currently completing onboarding and training, including site visits and provider engagement in Denver, Colorado.
The team also recently welcomed Southwest Field Operations Managers Spencer Lane and Ryan Lake, formerly with Off Duty Services. Both began onboarding and training in Roanoke, Virginia. As the team continues expanding, particularly across the western United States, National Field Operations is increasing visibility, strengthening provider relationships and enhancing support for clients and providers.
National Field Operations has:
• Completed 371 site visits
• Visited 90 unique clients
• Engaged with 128 unique providers
Blue Star at TAPA
The Blue Star Logistics team recently sponsored and attended the TAPA conference, where they showcased our supply chain service offerings and connected with industry professionals focused on combating cargo theft. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage with current clients, build new relationships and collaborate with others working to strengthen supply chain security across the industry.
Yankees Game Team Building
The Norwalk-based employees recently enjoyed a team outing at a New York Yankees game, providing employees with an opportunity to relax, connect and enjoy time together outside of the office. Events like these help strengthen team relationships, encourage collaboration and support a positive workplace culture through shared experiences.
Protos Labs Team Planning Meeting
The Protos Labs team recently came together in Pittsburgh, PA, alongside other teams across the organization, for a collaborative planning meeting that discussed product updates and aligning with key initiatives while focused on continued innovation and growth.
During the visit, the team also celebrated the birthday of Cameron Tabor, Senior Vice President of Software Engineering. Following the meetings, everyone enjoyed an evening together at a Pittsburgh Pirates game, creating a memorable experience and strengthening team camaraderie.
Blue Star Team Meetings
The Blue Star team recently hosted its first Sales Meeting and Logistics Management Meeting in Chicago. These gatherings provided valuable opportunities for team members across the organization to align on priorities, share insights and collaborate on strategies supporting continued growth and operational success.
Bringing teams together in person strengthened relationships, encouraged cross-functional collaboration and reinforced a shared commitment to delivering exceptional service and support across the logistics and supply chain industry.
Finance Summit
The Finance leadership team recently gathered in Charleston, SC for its first in-person Finance Summit in several years. The two-day event provided an opportunity for team members to connect face-to-face, strengthen collaboration and align on key departmental and companywide initiatives.
Throughout the summit, the team shared insights across departments, discussed current priorities and reinforced a shared commitment to supporting Protos’ continued success. The experience strengthened relationships, enhanced teamwork and helped build a stronger foundation for future collaboration
Remote Services Team Connects with Leadership
The Protos Remote Services team recently spent time with Mark Hjelle, CEO and Peter Platten, CRO, showcasing how innovation and technology continue enhancing the client experience. During the visit, the team highlighted AI-enabled camera solutions integrated with physical guarding services, along with the impact of proactive support, efficient troubleshooting and consistent operational service.
Office Festivities
The Roanoke-based teams recently wrapped up March Madness with a dip party, where everyone brought in their favorite dips to share, and celebrated bracket challenge winners Terry Turner for the men’s tournament and Matt Oliver for the women’s tournament.The team also enjoyed some April Fools fun bringing plenty of laughs to the office.
VENDOR MANAGEMENT
Every month, a vendor is awarded the Protos Security Vendor Partnership Award. Nominees are selected based on a critical look at vendor KPIs and their overall dedication to a mutually beneficial relationship with Protos. The winning vendor will receive a gift card to TopLine Uniforms.
This month’s winner is:
BlueSix Protection and Investigations nominated by Karyn Alfini
IT AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES
SOC 2 Type I and II Compliance
Protos is SOC 2 Type I and Type II compliant, demonstrating our continued commitment to data security, confidentiality and strong internal controls. If a client would like to review the SOC 2 Type II report, our team is happy to provide it upon request. For more information, please visit trust.protossecurity.com.
