When I began my professional journey in 2008 after earning my bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication in India, the telecommunications sector was thriving. I started as a Telecom Engineer, immersed in the excitement of a rapidly expanding industry.
In 2010, I moved to Saudi Arabia and transitioned into the construction sector, focusing on Extra Low Voltage (ELV) systems. My work spanned telecommunications, BMS, security, and audio-visual systems. Over time, I observed a consistent pattern: while all systems were guided by well-established standards and design directives, security seemed to lack that same clarity and structure. This inconsistency sparked my curiosity.
I started researching more deeply - consulting online resources, engaging with industry professionals, and analyzing global practices. It became clear that security, despite being critical, was often overlooked in terms of standardized frameworks, especially in the regional market. I identified a major gap: the need for structured, professionalized security design and assessment.
In 2012, I came across ASIS International. What struck me was the organization’s consistent, structured approach to security as a profession. Over the next five years, I closely followed ASIS publications, learning from their materials and community. In 2017, I officially joined ASIS and purchased the reference books for the Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification.
Due to a demanding work schedule, it took time to formally pursue the certification. However, I remained committed—and in 2021, I earned my PSP credential. This certification was a turning point in my career. It opened doors to focused security roles, and I was soon appointed as a Security Engineer. Today, I serve as a Senior Security Engineer at a leading engineering consultancy in Saudi Arabia.
Since earning my PSP, I have dedicated my career exclusively to security. I’ve had the privilege to be part of risk assessments for hundreds of critical infrastructure projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, contributing to the safety and resilience of vital assets.
ASIS didn’t just offer me a certification—it provided direction, credibility, and a professional community. It helped me turn a gap I observed into a meaningful career path.
#MyASISStory is one of discovery, growth, and purpose—and I’m proud to be part of this global security network.
Tahsin Mohamed Ali, PSP, works as a Senior Security Engineer for Khatib and Alami. He has been an ASIS member since 2017 and is currently a member of the Dhahran Chapter in Saudi Arabia.
