A proud 2002 graduate of Niagara College’s Education, Law and Security Administration program, Leo Ruberto has built a meaningful and rewarding career in campus safety through dedication, adaptability, and a drive to lead. Now serving as Acting Associate Director of Campus Safety and Parking Services at NC, Leo’s career began with hands-on experience in security roles and evolved into leadership positions that reflect his commitment to public safety and the well-being of the College community. His journey is a testament to the value of gaining diverse experience within his field and the strong foundation and network he built at NC.
Current role and career path
In my current Role as Acting Associate Director of Campus Safety and Parking Services, I ensure the proper implementation of security contracts, workplace violence, crime prevention programs and Preparedness, Response and Recovery Plans. I offer regular support and guidance to the College community as it relates to the public safety of the College community and the security of the College’s assets. In addition, I also have the responsibility to manage all issues related to parking administration and by-law enforcement processes throughout the college’s property.
Influences and inspiration
I was always interested in law enforcement growing up and when the time came to make a decision on what path I would like to set myself on for my career, I felt like the Law and Security administration program offered at Niagara College was the right decision because it would open up multiple future options for me such as Policing, Security, By-Law and Customs. I think the way I have made this my own is by not limiting myself and gaining experience through boots on the ground as a Security Officer and Security Supervisor, followed by a role as a Surveillance Investigator which led me into a Surveillance Management role. This made me realize that leading a team that makes your work environment a safer place to be in every day is definitely something I take pride in.
When I think of my time at NC, I look back on the networking opportunities through friendships that I had made with my classmates, but also through the well-rounded course load that was offered to me, allowing me to touch base on many options that I could potentially have a career in. I was also very lucky to have some fantastic professors that opened my eyes through them sharing their life experience from so many different fields. This gave me different perspectives right from front facing positions through upper management.
Standout NC experience
I had the opportunity to be part of our NC campus watch program which was a great way to have my first experience working and understanding the field of security. NC also opened the door for future volunteer opportunities that I had at the Niagara Regional Police testing center to help support their training sessions.
Words of wisdom
The advice that I would give to prospective students is not to limit yourself, get experience in multiple different aspects within your field of choice. Knowledge will never hurt you; it will just make you more confident and well-rounded as you get deeper into your career. I would also suggest that you enjoy the process because my time at NC gave me memories through experiences and friendships that I still talk about 23 years after graduating. NC is not just a fantastic learning institution; it is a family, and having the opportunity to return to NC and not only work for an amazing institution but to help provide safety on a daily basis to our college community truly makes coming to work day in and day out a pleasure and I take pride in saying I am an NC graduate and that I work for NC.
