Why the Security Industry Needs More Women — And What’s Still Holding Them Back
Key Points
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The myth that security jobs require brute strength is outdated — awareness and communication are often more valuable.
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Women are entering the field in growing numbers, but systemic pay gaps and bias still limit progress.
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The future of security — including cybersecurity — needs diverse skill sets, and women are essential to that evolution.
If you’re a woman exploring career paths — or already working in the security space — you’ve probably asked yourself more than once: Why does this industry still feel like a men’s club?
You’re not wrong to notice it. Even today, women make up only 25% of security officers in the U.S., while 75% are men.
And it’s not because women aren’t capable. It’s because the myths and outdated expectations around this profession are still deeply rooted — and they’re holding women back.
I’ve heard it from colleagues and seen it firsthand:
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Women being passed over for roles they’re more than qualified for;
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Smaller paychecks for the same work;
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A lack of mentorship or upward mobility in traditional security firms.
And if you’re just starting out? The noise can be overwhelming — and discouraging.
But here’s the good news: things are changing — slowly but surely.
The Biggest Myths Holding Women Back
Let’s call them what they are: stereotypes. And they’re outdated.
❌ Myth #1: “Security jobs are for men.”
The stereotype that a “real” security guard has to be tall, tough, and male is still alive in many corners of the industry. But today, more and more women are getting licensed, joining patrol teams, and moving into leadership roles. They’re not just present — they’re essential.
In fact, many companies now actively seek female officers for roles that require attention to detail, communication, and empathy — traits that are just as critical (and often more effective) in many situations than brute force.
❌ Myth #2: “You need to be physically strong.”
Yes, some roles — like bar or concert security — require physical presence.
But the industry has changed. Tech and surveillance tools have reshaped many roles.
Physical strength is no longer the core requirement — awareness, multitasking, and calm under pressure are. And women excel at that.
Plus, in roles where staying inconspicuous is key — think retail, museum, or building security — being physically imposing can actually be a disadvantage.
So Where Are the Opportunities?
Let’s be clear: there are doors opening. But many women still hesitate to walk through them because of lower pay, bias, and lack of visibility.
Take cybersecurity — one of the most promising and well-paying sectors in the field.
Only 11% of cybersecurity roles are filled by women. Why? Not because they aren’t interested. Because pay gaps and gatekeeping are still part of the story.
The same pattern shows up in private and corporate security roles.
Women want to grow — but when advancement and recognition don’t come, they leave. Or never apply at all.
What Needs to Change (and How You Can Be Part of It)
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Companies need to rewrite job descriptions and internal policies to reflect the real demands of the job — not outdated stereotypes.
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More women need visibility in leadership and training roles — so others can see what’s possible.
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Mentorship matters. If you’re already in this space, support those trying to break in. If you’re new — find women who are two steps ahead and learn from them.
Because the security industry doesn’t just need more women — it needs what women bring to the table.
And that means not just showing up, but being seen, heard, and valued.
Security work is primarily a night and weekend job
This is a common myth but untrue.
Today security is a perpetual necessity. Every day- time commerce, bank, government building, school, hotel, and others requires daily security and at night.
Surveillance, monitoring, patrolling, and providing safety for employees and customers while averting robberies is the daily job of security officers.
Besides the individuals, security officers provide property safety and prevent damages and vandalism.
Security job is too dangerous for women
If the officers have not gone through proper training and doest have appropriate communication equipment, every officer is in potential danger whether is it a male or female.
This makes security jobs equally risky for women as it is for men.
Advantages of women security officers
The reasons why every security organization works to encourage women to pursue a career and integrate them into leadership positions in security jobs are:
- Communication
Women tend to have better communication skills that can positively affect situations by defusing and providing a pragmatic approach. Women attribute sensibility, intuitiveness, and emotional intelligence to creating a good work environment and communication enthusiasm.
- Empathy
Empathy is characteristic that provides relations with other employees and the general public. This attribute gives women a calm demeanor in stressful situations and tension. Clients particularly appreciate empathy, ensuring long-term cooperation and strong company partnerships.
- Equality
A woman fell more secure and comfortable while working with another woman. In inconvenient situations, women tend to feel more comfortable when dealing with women security officers. Including women in security can bring balance and provide safety in specific and appropriate situations. Women are good mediators in heated cases, which can be beneficial. In some possible incidents, a “quieting down” conditions can be sufficient to prevent an accident.
The Woman’s Role In The Security Industry: Final Thoughts
The misconception of security work is one of the reasons why not many women choose this industry branch as a career of choice.
The gender gap is also caused by sexism in language, attitude, and behavior.
Approximately 64% of female security officers have experienced sexual bullying, harassment, or violence.
This is why the industry has to establish support structures and customize security programs and mentorships specifically for women.
The industry has excelled in the need for physical strength and significant body presence and has expanded to security sectors requiring other qualities where women have shown superiority.
While facing typical stereotypes, problems, and unequal pay, women are slowly but surely forging their path in this industry. Promoting women in security is the only way to guarantee a safer future.
