Oregon ranks 31st in FY2009 for its federal homeland security spending and 27th in its domestic preparedness and antiterrorism programs, according to the Department of Justice. Although Eugene certainly has not received the attention of Portland in terms of terrorism, particularly since the Pioneer Courthouse Square Christmas tree terrorism plot in 2010, this large Oregon city has had to deal with the effects of terrorism, as well.
In January 2013, for example, a woman was arraigned in a Eugene district court after being on the run for more than 10 years for her role in the Eugene-based cells known at the Earth Liberation Front and the Animal Liberation Front, groups responsible for more than 20 fires across the West from 1996 to 2001. These acts of domestic terrorism produced more than $40 million in damage from Oregon to Northern California.
Homeland security professionals in Eugene, Oregon, are experts in both domestic and international terrorism. They must have comprehensive programs and initiatives in place to thwart potential terror attacks and to protect citizens, infrastructure, and property in the event of a homeland security crisis.
Degrees and Training for Homeland Security Careers in Eugene
The field of homeland security, particularly since the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, requires experts from a wide variety of backgrounds. In addition, these professionals must have a comprehensive knowledge of emergency management and homeland security as to ensure a seamless approach to terror incidents, both domestically and internationally.
As such, a degree in homeland security or a related program is generally seen as the most effective path to jobs in homeland security. As the field of homeland security grows, more programs are introduced every year. Just a few of the degrees offered in homeland security include:
- Master’s degree in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on Homeland Security
- Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security
- Associate of Arts in Homeland Security
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Human Services
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security
The foundation of these programs typically lies with the following courses:
- Introduction to Homeland Security
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Homeland Security
- Critical Problem Analysis
- Intelligence Process
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Disaster Preparedness and Response
- Vulnerability and Risk Assessment
Individuals interested in pursuing careers in homeland security often seek professional certification, as well, through the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security. Certification designations include:
- Certified in Disaster Preparedness, CDP-I
- Certified in Homeland Security – Emergency Medical Responder
- Certified Master Chaplain, CMC
- Certified National Threat Analyst, CNTA
- Intelligence Analyst Certified, IAC
- Sensitive Security Information, Certified
Homeland Security Employers in Eugene, Oregon
There is a wide variety of jobs in Eugene, Oregon, for the homeland security professional, from surveillance and undercover operations teams to intelligence analysts and detectives, just to name a few:
Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center and the Western States Information Network: Oregon is a member of both of these groups, which serve to gather intelligence information. Intelligence analysts and cyphers and cryptologists like work in these programs.
The Oregon Terrorism Fusion Center (TITAN): TITAN, which is located in Salem, is a component of the Department of Justice and is designated as a fusion center for the State of Oregon.
FBI Portland: The FBI Portland Office has resident agencies and field offices in a number of Oregon cities, including Eugene. In addition, the FBI has an established Counterterrorism Working Group in 5 regions throughout the state, including Eugene. Professionals working for the FBI in Homeland Security may include professionals in special operations or undercover operations, as well as foreign bureau agents and intelligence analysts.
Oregon State Police: The Oregon State Police, the statewide law enforcement agency, operates field offices throughout the state, including Eugene. Wireless communication experts, detectives, and surveillance teams are just a few of the homeland security professionals within the State Police.