Protective Security Fundamentals

*This class is offered Wednesday/Thursday (16 hours)

Instructors: GPSTC - Chris Wigginton, Buck Forte, John Henson, Billy Skinner, Brandon Miller

Chris Wigginton is an 18-year veteran trooper for the Georgia State Patrol who possesses more than 20 years of law enforcement and security operations experience. In December 2014 Governor Deal recommended Wigginton to the Board of Public Safety for the Director’s position at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. The Board approved the Governor’s recommendation on December 11, 2014.

Buck Forte has over 20 years of LE experience, previously with the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. In 2017, he began his career at GPSTC and is currently the Supervisor over Tactics.

Billy Skinner has over 25yrs of Law Enforcement experience between the Macon Police Department and Bibb County Sheriff's Office. Since 2020 he has worked in the Tactics at GPSTC.

Brandon Miller has 24 years of experience with the Houston County Sheriff’s Office. Since 2024, he has worked in the Tactics section at GPSTC.

Class Requirements

Business casual attire. Concealable holster with a weapon. No ammo.

Class Description

This comprehensive 16-hour training program is tailored for law enforcement officers responsible for safeguarding high-profile individuals who may be targeted due to their public visibility or official roles. Participants will gain critical skills in close protection techniques, advance planning, threat assessment, and rapid response strategies essential for executing effective protective operations. The course emphasizes proactive security measures and situational awareness to ensure the safety of celebrities, political figures, jurors, defendants, witnesses, and government officials.

Location

Columbus Trade & Convention Center - Classroom #201

801 Front Ave

Columbus GA 31901