Michael Herdman

About Michael Herdman

Security professional with experience in law enforcement, intelligence, executive protection and corporate security. Serving as a Physical Security Operations Manger. Responsible for all Physical Security Operations, Projects, Budget and Contract Security Officer Program. Prior, served as the Region Security Coordinator within AEP Security. Responsible for AEP Service Corporate Assets including AEP Headquarters, Aviation, AEP Energy, Data Centers, Ohio Valley Electric Corporation (OVEC) and Indiana-Kentucky Electric Corporation (IKEC). Lead and manage AEP’s Contract Security Officer Program, a portfolio including approximately 250 Security Officers across 11 states. Also, held the role of Event Monitoring Supervisor in the Security Operations and Event Monitoring Center (SOEMC) for AEP Security. Before joining AEP, I was a decorated State Trooper with the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) serving the Jackson and Lancaster Posts. During my tenor with the Ohio State Highway Patrol I achieved, State Leader in Enforcements from the following areas: OVI (2022), Seatbelt (2019 & 2022) and Distracted Driving (2020, 2021 & 2022). I also achieved the Traffic Safety Award (2022) and Criminal Patrol Award (2020 & 2022) for arrest of suspects on felony charges. I achieved Top Shooter, Top Driver and Top Overall Performer in my academy class. Prior to joining OSHP, I was an Area Manager within Logistics at Walmart Optical Distribution Center. During my time, I was responsible for both inbound and outbound operations which serviced all Walmart and Sam’s Club Vision Centers in the USA, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Chile. I played a key role in the continued development of strategic operations and supplier relationships, while enhancing associate involvement and relationships. I encourage and support the community by my involvement. I was the Fundraise Coordinator for The Lighthouse Domestic Violence Shelter and Event VAP Coordinator for Restoring Vision. Volunteer for Community Services, Relay for Life and American Cancer Society. I earned my Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University.

Experience

1. Physical Security Operations Manager

   American Electric Power

   Jun 2025 — Present

   In my role, I am responsible for leading the development and implementation of policies and procedures that enhance the safety and security of all employees and contractors, while also protecting the organization’s assets. I oversee a team dedicated to security system project management and field operations, and I manage and serve as the primary liaison with contracted guard force companies (a portfolio including approximately 250 Security Officers across 11 states) and technology vendors to ensure the effective installation and maintenance of all security systems. I manage the Security Management System (SMS), preparing detailed reports and executive-level presentations. I also direct and oversee all Region Security Coordinators across the operating companies to ensure that workplace aggression incidents are addressed appropriately, investigations are thorough, and vulnerability assessments are documented. My role ensures compliance with critical regulatory standards, including NERC-CIP, MTSA, CFATS, and FERC Dam Safety Program requirements. Additionally, I am responsible for overseeing procurement practices, ensuring financial accuracy and timely payments, and managing the department\'s overall budget, including project installations and all field operations related to Physical Security.

Education

• Tiffin University

  Bachelor’s Degree, Criminal Justice

  2009 — 2013

• Tiffin University

  Master’s Degree, Criminal Justice Administration

  2013 — 2016