Christopher Willingham

United States Secret Service 2/2019 – Present Laurel, MD Hours per week: 40 Canine Training Specialist Responsible for providing training to canine and law enforcement handlers within the USSS Uniformed Division, and to instill the technical and analytical knowledge, skills and attitudes needed for proficiency in the specialized field. Serves as a subject matter expert in the use of explosives detection and tactical canines in a law enforcement environment in order to provide instruction, technical advice, and advisory information. Trains law enforcement personnel on the concepts/theories and methodologies of basic and advanced explosive detection during canine operations. Assists in the acquisition of canines from vendors/breeders; conducts initial testing to validate proper behavior capabilities and suitability to enter the explosive detection or tactical canine programs. Mastery of canine psychology and behavioral patterns to accomplish initial training and the ability to devise remedial action to overcome a wide range of influencing factors. Expert knowledge in explosive detection and tactical training in order to analyze technical problems in canine training, develop clear and concise solutions, and make timely recommendations on strategies to implement corrective action. Mastery in law enforcement techniques as it relates canine operations to ensure the course content and materials presented remain in touch with the realities of the environment in which students will be working and to maintain credibility in the training program. Identify canine behavior problems, conduct certifications, validation trainings, complete monthly reporting to senior management, conducts behavioral evaluations, designs problem solving techniques and programs to uniquely fit team needs as directed; participates in canine training development, developing and implementing new training courses provides input on policies and procedures, improving training materials and methods, and ensures continuity and standardization of the canine training policy, course content and evaluation techniques.

• Canine Training Specialist, United States Secret Service, Laurel, MD, 02/2019, Present, 40, Provide training to canine and law enforcement handlers., Serve as a subject matter expert in explosives detection and tactical canines., Train law enforcement personnel on explosive detection concepts and methodologies., Assist in the acquisition and testing of canines., Identify canine behavior problems and conduct certifications.
• Multi-Purpose Canine (MPC) Program Manager, Marine Corps Special Operations Command, Camp Lejeune, NC, 06/2017, 01/2019, 50, Provide oversight and instruction to personnel., Manage operational, training, logistical, financial, and administrative aspects of the MPC Program., Lead and supervise 24 personnel., Develop new course curriculum and training programs.
• Chief Trainer/ Kennel Master, Military Police Support / Security Battalion / 1ST Law Enforcement Battalion, Camp Pendleton, CA, 12/2007, 11/2011, 60, Train, manage, and certify MWD teams for law enforcement operations., Conduct operational evaluations of canine teams., Deploy canine teams to support various units.
• Detachment Commander/ Recruiting, Advertising, Screening Team Chief, US Embassy – Helsinki, Finland / Marine Corps Embassy Security Group – Quantico, VA, Helsinki, Finland, 11/2011, 09/2014, 60, Provide internal security and protection to mission personnel., Manage operational, logistical, financial, and administrative aspects of the Marine Security Detachment., Develop new security techniques and procedures.
• Team Chief/Chief Instructor/ Trainer/ Handler, 341st Training Squadron, Lackland AFB, TX, 01/2003, 12/2007, 65, Train patrol explosive detection dogs., Overcome training obstacles and ensure certification standards., Participate in multi-agency evaluations.
• Military Working Dog Trainer/ Handler, Provost Marshal's Office, Camp Lejeune, NC, 05/2000, 03/2003, 60, Train and maintain readiness of military working dog teams., Conduct training assessments and establish training plans., Provide force protection and explosive detection capabilities.