Leadership in law enforcement is about much more than authority or rank. Throughout my career, which began with the City of Austin in 2006, I’ve come to realize that leadership is rooted in trust, mentorship, and community engagement. From my early days on patrol to serving as the Training Division Commander for the Austin Police Department, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the role of a leader has evolved—and how the lessons learned in public service have shaped my approach in private security.
Starting on the Frontlines
When I first started in public safety, my focus was on learning the basics: responding to calls, understanding the dynamics of patrol, and connecting with the community I was serving. I grew up in Houston playing football and basketball, and those early team experiences taught me the importance of collaboration, discipline, and resilience. Those same principles translated directly to policing. I quickly realized that leadership wasn’t just about giving orders; it was about listening, observing, and being present for your team.
My decision to join law enforcement wasn’t initially planned. I completed my undergraduate degree in Community Health at Texas A&M University, originally intending to go to medical school. A ride-along during my last semester changed everything. Experiencing the impact officers had on their communities inspired me to serve in a capacity where I could make a tangible difference. That moment set the foundation for my career in public safety.
Leading Through Mentorship and Engagement
Over the years, I served in many assignments: Investigations, Street Narcotics, Strategic Intelligence, Recruiting, and Risk Management. Each role deepened my understanding of organizational operations and the value of human capital. Eventually, I became the Training Division Commander, overseeing the direction of recruiting, hiring, and training for roughly 2,300 personnel.
One lesson became clear: leadership is most effective when it is rooted in engagement. It isn’t enough to issue directives from a corner office. Leaders need to connect with employees on a personal level, understand their challenges, and foster an environment where they feel valued and supported. Mentorship became a central focus for me—helping young officers navigate their careers, develop skills, and grow into confident professionals.
Similarly, connecting with the community is critical. Law enforcement leaders today are measured not only by crime statistics but by the trust and collaboration they build with the people they serve. I’ve always emphasized visibility, accessibility, and communication as pillars of leadership. Being approachable and transparent builds loyalty and respect from both employees and citizens.
Lessons Transitioning to Private Security
In 2024, I transitioned to the private sector and founded Black Onyx Investigations, expanding into executive protection and background investigations. This shift presented new challenges but reinforced many of the leadership lessons I’d learned in public service. Private security demands the same discipline, integrity, and strategic thinking as law enforcement, but it also requires adaptability and a client-centered approach.
In private security, leadership means setting a standard of excellence, fostering teamwork, and anticipating risks. Just as in law enforcement, strong leaders must inspire confidence, provide mentorship, and ensure the professional development of their teams. But private security adds a unique dimension: the responsibility to safeguard individuals and organizations in a constantly evolving threat landscape.
The Role of Continuous Learning
Leadership is never static. Over the years, I’ve pursued advanced education to strengthen my skills and expand my perspective. From earning a Master of Science in Criminal Justice at Lamar University to participating in the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School, I’ve seen the value of combining academic insights with practical experience. I am currently pursuing an MBA to enhance my understanding of strategic management, organizational growth, and operational efficiency.
Additionally, certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and the FBI-LEEDA Command Leadership Institute have provided structured frameworks for process improvement and leadership development. These experiences have shown me that great leaders are always learning, refining their approaches, and adapting to the needs of their teams and communities.
Leadership Beyond the Badge
Whether in public service or private security, leadership is fundamentally about service. I consider myself a servant leader, prioritizing the development of my team, the safety of the community, and the cultivation of trust. Engaging with people authentically, building connections, and mentoring future leaders is what makes a lasting impact.
Hobbies like natural bodybuilding, Jiu-Jitsu, and scuba diving also teach valuable lessons about discipline, patience, and focus—qualities that translate directly to professional leadership. Maintaining balance, resilience, and perspective outside of work strengthens my ability to lead effectively within it.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to grow Black Onyx Investigations, I carry forward the principles that guided me in law enforcement: engagement, mentorship, and integrity. Leadership is about creating an environment where people feel empowered to succeed, where collaboration and trust drive outcomes, and where the focus remains on serving others.
In today’s world, the boundaries between public safety and private security are evolving, but the essence of leadership remains unchanged. True leaders inspire, adapt, and serve—not just with authority, but with empathy, vision, and a commitment to making a difference. That philosophy has guided my journey and will continue to shape every step of my career.