SIA opens applications for three 2026 scholarship programs

SILVER SPRING, Md.—The Security Industry Association (SIA) has opened applications for three scholarship programs for 2026, including a new initiative aimed at supporting military veterans pursuing careers in the security industry.

The association announced that applications are now being accepted for the SIA RISE Scholarship, SIA Veterans in Security Scholarship and Women in Security Forum (WISF) Scholarship. The programs are designed to help security professionals and students advance their educational and professional development goals.

A new addition for 2026, the Veterans in Security Scholarship will award multiple scholarships of up to $5,000 each to military veterans and transitioning service members pursuing security-related education, certifications, professional development opportunities or student loan repayment. The program is open to U.S. military veterans affiliated with SIA member companies and active-duty service members planning to transition into private-sector security careers.

“The SIA RISE, Veterans in Security and Women in Security Forum scholarships, presented by three vibrant SIA member communities, are excellent opportunities to support your professional development, learning and growth,” SIA CEO Don Erickson said. “SIA is proud to build on our commitment to fostering the next-generation security workforce, and with more scholarships this year than ever before, we look forward to helping our industry’s emerging leaders, young professionals, women and military veterans achieve their professional and educational goals.”

The SIA RISE Scholarship, presented by SIA’s RISE community, provides $3,000 awards to young professionals, student members and individuals new to the security industry. Scholarship funds may be used for continuing education, professional certifications, training programs and student loan repayment. Eligible applicants include SIA student members and RISE members employed by SIA member companies worldwide.

In 2026, SIA will again award three special RISE Scholarships: the Joey Comunale Scholarship, the Dalal Family Scholarship and the Pierre Trapanese Scholarship.

The Women in Security Forum Scholarship will award recipients $7,500 each to support approved degree programs, continuing education, student loan repayment and professional development opportunities such as certifications, training courses and conferences. The program is open to all SIA members and student members.

Each year, the top-scoring applicant receives the Sandy Jones Award, a distinction named in honor of longtime SIA member and industry veteran Sandra “Sandy” Jones.

Applications for all three scholarship programs are due Sept. 11. SIA said the scholarships support its broader efforts to strengthen workforce development and create opportunities for current and future security industry professionals.

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