CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: CSARP Graduates Raise the Bar in Security Leadership

​

Savoie Security Associates (SSA) and the Infrastructure Resilience Research Group (IRRG), Office of the Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Design, Carleton University are proud to recognize the latest cohort of graduates from the Certified Security and Resilience Professional (CSARP) program.

​

These graduates have demonstrated outstanding dedication to advancing their expertise in security and resilience. Their successful completion of the CSARP certification signals more than just the acquisition of knowledge: it represents a meaningful commitment to leadership, continuous learning, and the pursuit of excellence within Canada’s national security landscape.

​

At the June 12, 2025, IRRG/SSA Knowledge Café-Workshop, Professor James Green, PhD., P. Eng., SMIEEE, Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University and Member of the IRRG Professional Training Committee, was pleased to present certificates to the graduates and commend their achievements. Each graduate now holds a credential that enhances their professional credibility and signifies their readiness to contribute to the evolving demands of security in the public sector.

​

Dr. Felix Kwamena, Ph.D., Adjunct Professor/Director Infrastructure Resilience Research Group, Office of the Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Design, Carleton University and Sharon Savoie, President and Founder of Savoie Security Associates Inc., congratulate the graduates and encourage them to continue leading, learning and contributing to the strength and security of our institutions. 

​

CSARP Graduates – June 2025

​

Cheryl Donis, NCR, Regional Security Officer

Integrity Services Branch, Service Canada

Employment and Social Development Canada

​

Melanie Guindon, Advisor, Corporate Security

Canda Deposit Insurance Corporation

​

Matthew Lacombe, Manager, Security and Emergency Management

Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

​

Roman Laroche, Manager, Safety and Security

Science and Parliamentary Infrastructure Branch

Public Services and Procurement Canada

 

Ashlee Linton, IT Analyst, SCI Risk and Diversification

Enterprise Architecture and Security, Chief Technology Officer Branch 

Shared Services Canada

​

Kris McKinnon, Senior Security Officer  

Veterans Affairs Canada

​

Kaila McTavish, Manager, Security and Facilities

Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

​

What the CSARP Certification Meant to the Graduates

​

Upon receiving their certificates each graduate was asked what the CSARP Certification and learning journey meant to them. Their reflections underscore the value of SSA’s training courses and the impact it has had on their careers. Here are their responses:

​

“Earning my security certification through the CSARP journey with SSA Courses and Instructors has been more than just an academic milestone – it is a personal and professional achievement. It represents a deeper understanding of risk, compliance, and security frameworks that are critical in today’s digital landscape. More importantly, it gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully to security conversations and decisions in any organization. The standout experience for me was the way SSA’s instructors made complex concepts relatable and actionable. Their real-world insights, interactive discussions and hands-on exercises helped bridge the gap between theory and practical application. It was not just about passing an exam – it was about transforming how I approach security in my daily work.” Cheryl Donis, ESDC

​

“The security certification allowed me as well as my organization to grow our corporate security program to better align with the Government policies on security. Bringing the knowledge gained through these courses back to my senior management has allowed me to build confidence, trust and become the subject matter expert of security for CDIC. The Instructors at SSA have shown so much knowledge for security and truly transferred their passion, experience, and lessons down to each student. You can tell that each of them cares about the subject they are teaching and watching people succeed. I love the whole experience and will continue to take courses through SSA whenever feasible.”

Melanie Guindon, CDIC 

​

“Sharon and her team of Instructors bring the requisite knowledge, experience, and practical advice for security practitioners of all levels to be successful within the Federal Public Service. The lessons I have taken away from the courses offered, have certainly enabled our Agency to improve its security posture and overall readiness to face anything that comes our way. “Matthew Lacombe, IAAC

​

“Becoming a Certified Security and Resilience Professional (CSARP) through the CSARP journey with SSA was far more than a professional milestone – it was a transformative experience that reshaped how I perceive risk, resilience, and responsibility.

​

To me having a CSARP certification signifies a deep commitment to safeguarding not just physical assets, but the trust, safety, and continuity of the people and systems we serve. It is recognition that security is not static – it is dynamic, evolving with every new threat, every new technology and every new challenge.

​

One of the best and most impactful learning experiences during this journey was the sense of community and shared purpose. Learning alongside peers who brought diverse perspectives and real-world experiences created a collaborative environment where theory met practice. It reminded me that security is never a solo effort – it is a collective responsibility. Roman Laroche, PSPC

​

“Throughout the process of obtaining my certification, I significantly expanded my knowledge across various security domains. My understanding of the impact and implementation of security measures within the context of the Government of Canada deepened, as did my ability to strategically apply security controls. I acquired valuable skills, experience, and professional connections across the GoC. Most importantly I gained confidence to diversify my skills within security and am embarking on a new career path in technology security.

​

The breadth of knowledge and insight all the instructors bring to the certification courses makes this program a must for all security professionals.” Ashlee Linton, SSC

​

“Completing the certification represents a commitment to professional growth, having a deeper understanding of the security principals and landscape. It has a prepared me to take on greater responsibilities within my department.

​

The best learning experience was sitting in a class with instructors and peers to discuss real world application. Collaborating with my peers on scenarios, case studies lead to interactive discussions with them as well as the instructors. The entire journey to certification allowed me to build a strong network of peers and mentors that will allow for continued learning and knowledge sharing.” Kris McKinnon, VAC

​

“As a professional whose academic background lies outside the traditional security domain, earning the CSARP certification presented a pivotal step in aligning my formal knowledge with the evolving demands of my current role. I was drawn to the program because it offered not just theoretical frameworks but also practical, immediately applicable insights that enhanced my capabilities in the security space. One of the most impactful aspects of the journey was how seamlessly the course content aligned with the development and strategic priorities of the IAAC Security Directorate. The curriculum provided me with tools and language needed to advocate effectively for security-focused initiatives and to contribute meaningfully to the preparation of compelling, outcome driven business cases. Ultimately, the certification not only validated my growing expertise but also empowered me to influence decision-making and policy development in a way that supports department level objectives. It was a transformative experience and bridged the gap between learning and leadership.”  Kaila McTavish, IAAC