vertexprofessionalinstitute.com

About Us

About Us

Vertex Professional Training Institute is the premier center for safety, security, and professional advancement. Built on a foundation of excellence, integrity, and industry expertise, Vertex was created with one mission in mind: to raise the standard of training and ensure every student is prepared, confident, and fully qualified to excel in their chosen field.

 

We specialize in providing a comprehensive suite of certification and skill-building programs, including SORA training, CPR, First Aid, AED, Security Management courses, Safety Training, Traffic Flagger certification, and more than 25 advanced security and professional development classes. Our curriculum is intentionally structured to serve beginners entering the workforce, seasoned security professionals seeking advancement, and organizations needing dependable, high-quality training for their teams.

 

At Vertex, we believe that true readiness comes from a blend of knowledge, hands-on practice, and real-world application. That’s why our programs are led by certified instructors with extensive field experience, including security professionals, emergency responders, supervisors, and industry specialists who bring practical insight into every lesson. Students receive not only the required certifications, but also the type of mentorship, situational awareness, and problem-solving skills that set them apart in the field.

Our training approach emphasizes professionalism, communication, leadership, and situational judgment—skills crucial to success in security, safety, and emergency response roles. Every course is designed to meet or exceed state requirements, industry standards, and employer expectations, ensuring that graduates leave fully prepared for the responsibilities ahead.

 

Vertex Professional Training Institute is more than a training center—it is a learning community. We foster a supportive, disciplined, and empowering environment where students feel motivated, respected, and encouraged to reach their highest potential. From first-time trainees to experienced officers, we guide everyone through their certification journey with clarity, structure, and unmatched dedication to quality.

 

Whether your goal is to begin a career in security industry, strengthen your existing credentials, or develop the skills needed to protect people and property, Vertex is here to lead the way. Our reputation is built on trust, student success, and a commitment to providing training that is accurate, relevant, and impactful.

Mission Statement

At Vertex Professional Training Institute, our mission is to empower individuals with the highest level of safety, security, and emergency response training. We are dedicated to delivering education that is practical, relevant, and aligned with real-world industry demands. Through expert instruction, hands-on learning, and unwavering commitment to student success, we strive to develop confident, capable, and responsible professionals who protect, serve, and strengthen the communities they work in.

Our mission is not only to certify students—but to prepare them to lead with integrity, respond with skill, and uphold the values of professionalism, safety, and service in every environment.

Vision Statement

Our vision at Vertex Professional Training Institute is to become the leading force in shaping the future of security, safety, and professional development across the region. We aim to set the highest standard of training excellence by continuously advancing our programs, expanding our course offerings, and embracing innovation that enhances learning and real-world readiness.

We envision a community where every security and safety professional is skilled, confident, ethical, and equipped to make a meaningful impact. Through education, empowerment, and leadership development, Vertex strives to elevate the industry and create safer workplaces, stronger organizations, and more secure communities for all.

Core Values

At Vertex Professional Training Institute, our work is guided by a strong foundation of values that shape every class we teach, every student we support, and every standard we uphold. These values ensure that our students receive the highest level of professionalism, training integrity, and real-world readiness.

1. Excellence in Education
We are committed to delivering superior training through certified instructors, up-to-date curriculum, and hands-on learning environments. Every course is designed to exceed industry expectations and prepare students for real operational challenges.

2. Integrity & Accountability
Trust is at the heart of our mission. We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards—honest communication, transparent instruction, and responsibility in every interaction. We expect the same level of professionalism from our students as they prepare to serve the public.

3. Student Success First
Our students are the center of everything we do. From enrollment to certification, we provide support, guidance, and mentorship to ensure every trainee has the tools and confidence to succeed. Your growth is our priority.

4. Real-World Preparedness
Training at Vertex goes beyond textbooks. Our goal is to prepare individuals for practical, everyday situations they will face in the field. We emphasize critical thinking, situational awareness, and effective response to ensure our graduates can perform with competence and confidence.

5. Respect & Professionalism
We foster a learning environment built on mutual respect—between instructors, students, and staff. Professional conduct, discipline, and positive leadership behaviors are embedded into every program we offer.

6. Continuous Improvement
The security and safety industries are constantly evolving, and so are we. Vertex is committed to updating our curriculum, improving our facilities, introducing new classes, and embracing innovation to stay ahead of industry needs.

7. Community & Service
We believe that safety and security play a vital role in strengthening communities. Our training empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact in workplaces, public spaces, and neighborhoods. Serving others is at the core of what we teach.

Our Executive Team

Viviana Jimenez-Thaker – Executive & Academic Profile

Viviana Jimenez-Thaker is a visionary educator, Chief Executive Officer, and academic leader driven by a deep passion for education and community empowerment. She firmly believes that education is the most powerful tool for transforming lives. As the Chief Executive Officer and Head of Vertex Professional Institute, Viviana has dedicated her career to creating a learning environment that empowers students to exceed their expectations by equipping them with knowledge, hands-on experience, and real-world skills essential for success in today’s competitive job market.


Leadership at Vertex Professional Institute

Under Viviana’s leadership, Vertex Professional Institute has become more than an educational institution—it is a place where students discover purpose, build confidence, and prepare for meaningful careers. She has cultivated a culture of excellence rooted in integrity, innovation, and inclusiveness.

Every program at Vertex is thoughtfully designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world application, allowing students to gain practical experience and professional insight well before entering the workforce.


Educational Mission & Student Empowerment

Viviana’s mission is to make education accessible, empowering, and impactful. She believes that every student—regardless of background—can achieve success when provided with the right guidance, resources, and opportunities.

Through career-focused training, professional certification programs, and personalized mentorship, Viviana ensures that each learner at Vertex is supported, inspired, and guided toward long-term success.


Professional & Clinical Background

Viviana brings a well-rounded and deeply informed perspective to her leadership role. She has several years of experience working in:

  • Clinical and hospital settings as a licensed healthcare provider

  • The non-profit sector, supporting major organizations managed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF)

  • Community-focused initiatives aimed at empowering families through education and support

These experiences strengthened her belief in education as a catalyst for workforce development, personal growth, and community transformation.


Public Education & Teaching Excellence

Currently, Viviana serves as a Certified High School Allied Health Science and Honors Biology Teacher within the Career and Technical Education Department and Science Department.

She inspires students to view science not merely as a subject, but as a way of understanding and engaging with the world. Her classrooms emphasize:

  • Curiosity and inquiry

  • Collaboration and critical thinking

  • Real-world application of scientific concepts

Viviana also serves as the Chapter Advisor for the National Future Health Professionals (HOSA) organization within the New Jersey Chapter, guiding and mentoring future healthcare leaders.


Industry Relations & Workforce Development

Prior to her leadership roles in public education and at Vertex, Viviana served as a Director of Client Relations and Outreach Coordinator, where she built strategic partnerships connecting education, healthcare, and business sectors.

These experiences deepened her understanding of workforce development and industry alignment—principles she continues to apply at Vertex to ensure programs meet real-world demands and prepare students to contribute effectively from day one.


Education, Licenses & Certifications

Viviana holds the following academic credentials and certifications:

  • Master of Education (M.Ed.), concentration in Allied Health

  • Bachelor of Science, concentration in Public Health

  • NJDOE-approved certifications:

    • Biomedical Sciences (CIP 26.0102)

    • Biotechnology (CIP 26.1201)

    • Health Services (CIP 51.00)

  • American Red Cross Instructor: CPR / AED, BLS, Emergency Procedures

  • Additional healthcare licenses and certifications including:

    • CPI

    • NAC Instructor

    • CHES

She continues to pursue lifelong learning to remain at the forefront of education and healthcare training.


Leadership Philosophy

As CEO, Viviana leads Vertex Professional Institute with compassion, vision, and purpose. She works closely with instructors, staff, and industry partners to ensure every student experience is engaging, relevant, and empowering.

Her leadership philosophy centers on meaningful connection:

  • Between teacher and student

  • Between knowledge and practical application

  • Between learning and opportunity

Her message to students reflects her unwavering belief in their potential:

“At Vertex, you are not just a student—you are a future professional, a leader in the making. Our mission is to help you unlock your potential, master your skills, and step into the world ready to make a difference with compassion while earning competitively. Education is the key to your success, and together, we’ll build a future you can be proud of.”


Industry Partnerships & Career Pathways

Driven by her belief in the transformative power of education, Viviana actively strengthens industry partnerships to offer students:

  • Meaningful internships

  • Hands-on professional experience

  • Possible job placement opportunities for qualified graduates

Her vision continues to shape Vertex Professional Institute as a center for learning, leadership, and lifelong success.


Philanthropy & Community Engagement

Viviana has led multiple philanthropic initiatives and remains actively involved in future community-focused projects. Among her most meaningful efforts is an international philanthropic project founded in 2019, dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing essential school supplies and uniforms.

Additional community involvement includes:

  • Membership in PETA, advocating for animal rights

  • Leading a self-empowerment program supporting over 200 women, focused on self-esteem building and personal growth

Her philanthropic work reflects her commitment to compassion, empowerment, and social responsibility.

Parth Thaker

Parth Thaker is a highly accomplished security executive, educator, and philanthropist with more than 27 years of experience spanning frontline operations, corporate leadership, and workforce development within the security and safety industries. Known for his strategic vision, operational expertise, and unwavering commitment to professional excellence, Parth has played a pivotal role in shaping modern security practices and elevating industry training standards.


Executive Leadership

Currently, Parth serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Priority 1 Security, where he leads all aspects of operations, business development, strategic growth, and organizational performance.

Under his leadership, Priority 1 Security has expanded its service offerings, implemented innovative operational systems, and built high-performing teams that consistently deliver exceptional results. His executive approach blends rigorous operational oversight with a people-first philosophy, emphasizing mentorship, employee development, and client-centered service.


Education & Curriculum Development

In addition to his corporate leadership, Parth serves as the Managing Partner and Director of Curriculum Development for Security and Safety Studies at Vertex Professional Institute.

In these roles, he oversees the creation and continuous evolution of industry-relevant educational programs designed to prepare security professionals for real-world challenges. He has developed comprehensive training tracks covering:

  • Leadership development

  • Crisis management and emergency response

  • Regulatory compliance and operational protocols

  • Customer service excellence

  • Investigative procedures and reporting

  • Scenario-based and experiential learning

His work ensures graduates are not only certified, but fully equipped to excel at every stage of their careers.


Professional Journey

Parth’s career progression reflects dedication, resilience, and hands-on expertise. He began his journey as a Security Officer and steadily advanced through the ranks:

  • Supervisor

  • Field Operations Manager

  • Regional Director

  • Executive Leadership

This firsthand experience at every level of the industry provides him with a unique understanding of workforce development, operational challenges, and client expectations—allowing him to implement strategies that are practical, effective, and scalable.


Training & Workforce Development Expertise

Parth is widely recognized for his transformative impact on professional training and workforce development. He has designed and implemented programs that significantly enhance employee performance, retention, and client satisfaction—both through in-person instruction and innovative online platforms.

His training initiatives include:

  • Leadership and supervisory development for security professionals

  • Crisis response, emergency preparedness, and risk management

  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation strategies

  • Compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices

  • Concierge-level security and customer service excellence

  • Investigative procedures, incident reporting, and documentation

  • Mentorship, onboarding, and scenario-based learning

Through these programs, Parth has created clear career advancement pathways, helping shape a more professional, confident, and prepared security workforce.


Philanthropy & Community Impact

Beyond his professional achievements, Parth is a passionate philanthropist and community advocate. He actively supports initiatives that strengthen communities, empower youth, and expand access to education and career opportunities.

His philanthropic efforts include:

  • Sponsoring scholarships for aspiring security professionals and public safety students

  • Organizing charitable programs providing food, clothing, and essential resources to families in need

  • Supporting community safety campaigns, mentorship programs, and workforce development initiatives

  • Collaborating with local organizations to support veterans, immigrants, and individuals re-entering the workforce

Parth believes that true leadership includes a responsibility to give back and invest in people, education, and opportunity.


Education & Credentials

Parth holds a Master of Science in National Security, with a concentration in Corporate Security, from New Jersey City University. He also maintains an extensive portfolio of industry certifications and is committed to lifelong learning to stay at the forefront of security innovation, training, and leadership.


Legacy & Leadership Philosophy

Parth Thaker is recognized as a visionary leader who seamlessly combines operational excellence, educational innovation, and social responsibility. His career reflects a rare balance of strategic insight, hands-on experience, and service-driven leadership.

Through his work at Priority 1 Security, Vertex Professional Institute, and his philanthropic initiatives, Parth continues to elevate industry standards, shape the future of workforce development, and positively impact communities across his home state and beyond.