Bringing Security to a Whole New Level
We believe that service and convenience should not be sacrificed for robust security.
Over a decade ago, our company was built on the premise that while many companies simply use security presence to deter crimes and a “one size fits all” approach, true and lasting security is built on a strong foundation, with professionally designed, customized plans, complete visibility, advanced technologies, and an experienced and knowledgeable security staff.
Our History
The groundwork of the organization was established in 2010 by CEO Ed Ramsdell and fellow security veterans who had gained insight, knowledge, and desire from their collective security experience and wanted to create a protective services business that would be a much better fit for clients and their evolving needs.
At the inception of Orion Protective Services, we amassed a small list of clients who valued this idea and shared our belief that working in partnership created a strong bond, a higher level of understanding and resilient security strategies that can pivot in an ever evolving and more complex world. Over time, our client base grew much larger, fueled by this incomparable philosophy.
The Orion Logo
The hallmark of the Orion Protective Services’ logo is the three stars in Orion’s Belt, one of the oldest and most recognizable constellations in the night sky.
Since ancient times, Orion was used by stargazers as a reliable marker to show the way to other stars and constellations and by sailors, who used it to help navigate them safely around the world. The stars of Orion have also been used by cultures around the world to predict important times of the year like summer and winter solstices. Each of these lends themselves to Orion’s deep connection and desire to offer guidance as well as direction.
Extensive Experience
Our management team collectively holds over 120 years of Law Enforcement and Private Sector Security experience.
Emergency Support
We are available day or night, 24/7 with live support, and can be at your location in 60 minutes or less.
Robust Training
Our meticulous security guard hiring and selection process ensures the careful screening and training of officers on your post.
Tailored Services
Our approach is never the same for any two clients. Our tailored solutions fit each job’s goals, agendas, and community needs.
Watch our video to learn more about Orion Protective Services.
Veteran Owned Small Business
Outstanding customer service is a big part of what makes Orion Protective Services a leading force in the security services industry. While serving their country as United States soldiers, members of our Orion Protective Services Management team gained invaluable experience and skills as well as the deep understanding of the importance of service – to answer the call and to be there, when and where we are needed.
2
Branches of the Military – Army & Marine Corps
70
Years of combined service
10
Campaigns including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom
38
Awards including 20 Medals and a Bronze Star
Our Security Officers
What it means to offer assistance, help, and stability
We believe that it is important that the Security Officers assigned to your posts are well-trained and supervised, to provide your customers and employees with reassurance and the capabilities of a strong security presence within the parameters of your property.
Orion Protective Services believes that an ambitious and consistent training program is essential for successful Security Officer performance. Under Orion’s rigorous training and development regimen, we ensure that our assigned Security Officers are properly trained to respond to whatever incident might arise at your facility.
Each Security Officer receives on-site orientation tailored to your facility, including building systems and critical locations, site policy and procedure, post orders, patrol duties, emergency response, and communications procedures.
In addition, our Supervisors and Management team have many years of experience in the contract security industry and have a broad background as Trainers. This combination of industry experience and training background gives Orion Protective Services an unmatched ability to train, develop and supervise our Security Officers and help them reach their true potential.
Orion Security Officers are:
Meticulously Screened and Selected
We conduct lengthy personal interviews, background investigations in all jurisdictions, employment reference checks, verbal and written communication skills assessments, and evaluations of personal interaction skills. This careful screening of each applicant yields Security Officers with impeccable backgrounds who earn respect for their professionalism, poise, and ability to communicate effectively and tactfully.
Well-Trained
Prior to doing any work in the field, all Security Officers must attend eight hours of classroom training, where they learn key data on a variety of topics including First Aid, Search and Seizure, Use of Force and Public Safety Issues such as Fire and Bomb Threat Response, Traffic Accidents, Hazardous Emergencies and Workplace Violence. There is also ongoing coursework that is assigned throughout the year after the training curriculum has been completed.
Reliable and Dependable
Orion Protective Services employs a call-in program in which Security Officers also call 1 hour before their shift to verify they are enroute to the site. Field personnel will call the command center at least 6 hours in advance if they will not make their assigned shifts, to ensure that coverage will remain seamless.
Affiliations, Certifications & Licensing
- Certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
- Certified by the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office as a Veteran’s Business Enterprise (VBE)
- Verified diverse business in the MassHousing Business Enterprise Directory Certifications and Licensing
- Licensed to operate as a service provider in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, license #LW0244
- Licensed to operate as a service provider in the State of Connecticut, license #AS-2670
- East Windsor Chamber of Commerce
Giving Back
Orion Protective Services, Inc. is a company that strives to lead with purpose. We support giving back to the community by contributing funding and/or volunteer time to causes we believe can help create a better world for current and future generations. Organizations that we have contributed to collectively as well as individually include:
- Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball
- Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
- Connecticut Housing Partners sponsorship
- Ellington Congregational Church
- New Neighborhoods, Inc.
- Newington Community Television
- Newington Open Space Committee
- Our Companions Animal Sanctuary
- The Bushnell Performing Arts Center
- Timothy Edwards Middle School PTO
- Under One Roof Annual Picnic
Community efforts are a key part of Orion’s mission to help create a safe environment for everyone.
Meet Our Team
Our management philosophy is one of partnership – both with our clients and Orion’s personnel – which has guided us to a convincing record of successful contract management. Maintaining a successful partnership requires a commitment of time from all parties to learn each other’s business objectives and the specific security challenges it faces. It also requires the will to work closely together to achieve common goals, and frequent and candid communication to help ensure all parties remain well-attuned to each other’s objectives.
Quality service begins with our proactive management team, who foster positive relationships through frequent contact, strong oversight, attention to detail, and a quick response to requests and changing needs.
By paying the strictest attention to detail and focusing on quality of service, Orion Protective Services has established an untarnished record of service with local clientele who continue to enlist our company, year after year, for their security needs. Clients can depend on the services of our well-trained, courteous, and professional officers, management and support staff who consider their best interests, security and safety above all else.
Edward Ramsdell
President and CEO
As the founder and owner of Orion Protective Services, Ed Ramsdell brings over 35 years of experience in the security industry to his current role. His expertise in operations management, sales and service activities, and mergers and acquisitions has helped him successfully grow and develop Orion Protective Services into a leading provider of security solutions. He oversees the firm’s operation and resources to achieve financial, service, and logistical objectives.
Ed was born in New York state and moved to Connecticut over 50 years ago. He now has deep roots in New England, where he is raising a family and is heavily involved in his community. He is a true New Englander at heart, believing in dedication and hard work and is someone who doesn't hesitate to blaze the trail if help is needed.
Ed was already a seasoned security practitioner when he founded Orion Protective Services, Inc. in 2010. Previously, he was a highly decorated Senior Non-Commissioned Officer in the United States Army Reserve, and he started the business after retiring.
His previous experience as Vice President, Special Services and Chief Operating Officer for other security firms allowed him to gain valuable insights into the industry and learn best practices for managing security operations. Under his leadership, Orion Protective Services has become known for its exceptional customer service, innovative security solutions, and commitment to employee training and development.
Ed graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and received an MBA from the University of Connecticut’s Business School.
Timothy Woodcock
Chief Operating Officer
As Chief Operating Officer, Tim Woodcock has made significant contributions to Orion Protective Services by creating operational efficiencies and strengthening the company's relationships with clients, leading to increased revenue and growth.
Tim leads the day-to-day operations of Orion Protective Services to ensure that the company achieves its objectives. He is a seasoned security professional with significant insight and experience in managing large teams and delivering high-quality services.
He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company, with extensive experience in the security industry and the military. Before joining Orion, Tim held executive positions with two prominent security firms, where he oversaw thousands of hours of security coverage.
He also spent over twenty years working for the Connecticut Department of Corrections where he retired as a Captain. During his time there, he gained experience managing security operations and ensuring the safety of staff and inmates. In addition, Tim served in the military for nearly three decades, retiring at the rank of Command Sergeant Major. His leadership skills, combined with his security and military background make Tim a valuable member of Orion's executive team.
Tim earned an Associates of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Tunxis Community College.
Nicholas Roy
Director of Operations
As the Director of Operations, Nicholas is responsible for overseeing daily operational activities. He has ten years of experience in asset protection management and operations as well as management experience in the private security sector, where he supervised diverse, complex accounts such as large multi-location healthcare facilities and Department of Defense (DOD) contracts. Nicholas meticulously oversees the training, mentoring and management of all Orion security personnel to ensure the highest standards of performance and job satisfaction.
In addition to his operational responsibilities, Nicholas plays a pivotal role in maintaining strong interpersonal relationships with clients. He promotes open lines of communication and understanding individual business needs, which allow him to address any concerns or feedback effectively.
His dedication and passion towards ensuring the safety and security of employees, clients and property set Nicholas apart as an exceptional Director of Operations. His focus on developing each Security Officer to their fullest potential and building strong client relationships allow Orion to provide the highest level of security services to clients throughout New England.
Nicholas earned an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Asnuntuck Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Bridgeport.
Amanda Carlson
Account Manager
In her role as an Account Manager, Amanda is responsible for overseeing operations for a specialized group of clients and locations in Massachusetts and Connecticut for Orion Protective Services. Her previous experience in management positions with another leading security provider and as a Police Dispatcher in the Springfield, Massachusetts metropolitan area provides valuable skill sets and adds insight to her present position.
Amanda served in the United States Army as a Military Police Officer for eight years, giving her important training and experience in security and law enforcement. She is currently enrolled in a joint admissions program with Holyoke Community College and Western New England University, where she is working towards a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management.
Amanda also serves as a Certified CPR/First Aid/AED instructor, demonstrating another facet to her dedication to ensure the safety and well-being of others.
Nicky Moriarty
Office Manager
Nicky Moriarty has been an asset to Orion Protective Services since joining the team in 2018. Her strong management experience and administrative skills keep critical tasks on or ahead of schedule and her leadership has contributed to the growth of the administrative team.
As a dedicated and detail-oriented Office Manager, Nicky oversees all Administrative tasks and completes bookkeeping and record keeping functions. She provides attentive customer service and has a can-do attitude that has led to long-lasting relationships with many clients who appreciate her knowledge, professionalism, and positivity.
Nicky earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Connecticut.
We’re Ready
When You Are.
With 24/7 support and rapid on-site arrival, Orion Protective Services is there when you need us. We are fully licensed and insured, and employ a robust training program for our Security Officers – giving you peace of mind that you are protected.