Homeland security operations in Essex, Vermont are handled by the state’s Homeland Security Unit (HSU). HSU coordinates local and state organizations as they prevent and respond to terrorist crises. Utilizing funds from a variety of state and federal sources, HSU assesses local infrastructure for potential vulnerabilities, raises public awareness and organizes training programs for first responders and other homeland security personnel.
HSU has received Homeland Security Grants since the attacks on September 11, 2001. Vermont received almost $19 million in 2004, and amounts exceeding $10 million in 2003, 2005 and 2006. In recent years, the funds have fallen into the $3 million to $7 million range, with $3.116 million awarded to the state in 2012.
Common Qualifications for Homeland Security Jobs in Essex, Vermont
With the substantial amounts of federal funding for homeland security programs, Essex is home to many homeland security jobs. Professionals with backgrounds in hazardous materials, information technology, public policy, business administration or public health, and qualifications similar to the following may find jobs:
- U.S. citizenship
- Ability to acquire security clearance
- A bachelor’s or advanced degree in:
- Public health or epidemiology
- Business management
- Government
- International relations
- Terrorism studies
- Information security
- Familiarity with National Incident Management System, National Response Framework, and Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program
- Demonstrated skill working with federal, state and local officials as well as private sector homeland security professionals
- Knowledge of homeland security laws and regulations
Training for many homeland security professionals is provided through employers. First responders like police and fire must complete pre-service training at their respective academies, while emergency medical technicians are required to obtain training through state certified schools. Homeland security coordinators and policy makers may obtain specialized training through the Vermont Homeland Security Training Program which offers courses in
- Terrorism awareness
- Explosive device response operations
- CBRNE detection
Homeland security professionals who wish to enhance their professional credentials may complete certification programs from industry associations like the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security, which offers the Certified National Threat Analyst (CNTA) and Intelligence Analyst Certified (IAC) accreditations, or the National Domestic Preparedness Coalition, which offers the Certified Homeland Protection Professional (CHPP) and the Certified Homeland Protection Associate (CHPA) accreditations.
Terrorist Incidents in Essex
Just outside of Essex, in the town of Montpelier, a series of domestic terrorism incidents occurred that required federal authorities to conduct an investigation. A series of bomb threats and reports of a gunman heading to the Montpelier High School produced a lockdown. Although no bombs were found, the local police have cooperated with federal authorities to discover that the threats were made through a complex network of internet and landline phone systems. The FBI has determined that the caller was located somewhere in Europe and is seeking cooperation from European agencies in tracking down the perpetrator.