Role-based certification pilot reshapes the security workforce

The Center for Security Excellence has launched a new Role-Based Certifications program, an overhaul of the Security Professional Education Development initiative designed to standardize training and validate real-world competency across the Defense Security Enterprise.

Positioned as a Department of War training standard, the framework moves certification away from a general knowledge test toward a structured progression tied to specific job roles. Open to DoW civilians, military personnel, and contractors supporting the department, the program aims to broaden skill sets and define professional benchmarks across the security workforce.

“RBCs combine foundational prerequisites (eLearning) with application-based instructor-led training and a comprehensive assessment to ensure every certified professional is equipped to meet the demands of their role and the mission of the DoW,” said Glenn Stegall, CDSE deputy director.

By emphasizing practical skills in risk mitigation and the application of countermeasures during planning, the initiative seeks to bolster an adaptable security cadre capable of meeting evolving operational demands. CDSE said a working group of certification holders helped shape the new approach to align with defined roles and career milestones.

“This is an important first step to rebuilding our professionalization pipeline and helping to standardize the security workforce. Previously, we had training agnostic certifications that served to validate that people had the knowledge, skills, and abilities to do a job for a specific role,” said Audrey Gutierrez, CDSE director.

The rollout will occur in phases, prioritizing high-need disciplines, with five certifications slated by March 2027. The first phase, an Information Security pilot running from July 26 to Aug. 23, targets core competencies in risk mitigation, classification management, and incident response.

Current SPēD certification holders as of March 2025 will see their expiration dates automatically extended to March 2027, easing the transition to the new framework. CDSE said comprehensive guidance will be released to explain how the role-based certifications align with SPēD.

“The SPēD Evolution is more than a certification update — it’s a commitment to standardize security training, sustain capability standards, and empower every member of the security workforce to be an effective advocate for security in DoW planning and operations,” Stegall said.

Program updates, rollout schedules, and guidance will be available at www.cdse.edu.