Meet The Team
John Kendall
President / CEO
“What I appreciate most about DK Security is being a member of the most wonderful and dedicated group of security professionals. We are blessed to have so many incredible leaders throughout the company.”
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Police Administration – Wayne State University
Master of Public Administration, Criminal Justice – Wayne State University
Extracurriculars:
Golfing, boating and reading.
Law Enforcement Career:
U.S. Air Force – Air Police Harbor Springs Police Department – Chief of
Police Grand Traverse County Sheriff Department – Undersheriff U.S. Marshal Service – U.S. Marshal, Western District of Michigan
John Kendall PRESIDENT / CEO
Sindia Narber
SR. VICE PRESIDENT / COO
“I love how every day is different. With all of the people that work for us and all of our clients, you never know what challenge you will face each day.
Board of Director Appointments:
Silent Observer – Chairperson
Memberships:
Inforum, West Michigan Chapter
West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Society of Human Resources Management
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
Extracurriculars:
I love to read, travel, spend time with my grand kids, and cook for my family!
Email: sindianarber@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2003. HR Assistant HR Manager Director of HR/Administration Vice President of HR/Administration Sr. Vice President of HR/Operations Sr. Vice President/COO
Sindia Narber SR. VICE PRESIDENT / COO
KEVIN BELK
Senior Vice President
“My favorite part about my job is working with the great employees of DK Security. I appreciate their commitment to meeting the security needs of our clients and seeing young people grow and develop into leaders in this great company.”
Kevin joined the DK team in 2016 as the Senior Vice President, overseeing the Investigative and Armed Divisions, as well as Special Operations. He spent 35 years in law enforcement and was eventually promoted to Chief of Police in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Law Enforcement Career (Bottom to top):
Grand Rapids Police Department
– Police Chief
– Police Captain
– Investigative Division Commander
– Police Lieutenant
– Police Sergeant
– Police Officer
Memberships:
Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police
Police Executive Research Forum
American Society of Industrial Security
FBI National Academy Associates, Inc
Education:
Associate of Arts – Criminal Justice – Grand Rapids Junior College
Grand Valley State University – Police Academy
Bachelor of Science – Criminal Justice – Grand Valley State University
FBI National Academy, Quantico, Virginia
Extracurriculars:
Spending time with family, traveling, and relaxing at the cottage.
Email: kevinbelk@dksecurity.com
Kevin Belk SR. VICE PRESIDENT
Zach Simons
Sr. Vice President / CFO
“My favorite part about my job is that every day presents new challenges and obstacles as we continue to grow the business.”
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Accounting – Grand Valley State University
Master of Business Administration – Baker College
Extracurriculars:
Golfing, fishing, and playing outdoor games.
Email: zachsimons@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2011, Financial Analyst Controller Sr. Vice President / CFO
Zach Simons SR. VICE PRESIDENT / CFO
Tyler Kalinosky
Vice President of Operations
Eastern Michigan
“The favorite part of my job is having the opportunity to meet and work with a variety of talented people.”
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice – Grand Valley State University
Extracurriculars:
Watching movies and listening to my vinyl collection.
Specializations:
Armed Operations, Campus Crime Prevention, College/University Campus Security, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator and Instructor, Defense Tactics Instructor, Event Management, Judicial Security, Military Security, Security Operations
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2015. Armed Security Officer Shift Supervisor Operations Manager (East Michigan) Director of Events (West Michigan) Vice President of Operations (East Michigan)
Tyler Kalinosky Vice President of Operations
East Michigan
Joe Budnik
Director of Operations West Michigan
EDUCATION:
Bachelors of Science: Criminal Justice
Grand Valley State University
Extracurriculars:
Hunting, fishing, and spending time with my family.
Specializations:
Active Shooter Response, Armed Operations, Campus Crime Prevention, College/University Campus Security, CPL Firearms, Defense Tactics Instructor, Emergency Response Planning, Event Management, Executive Protection, Explosives Recognition, Health Care Security, Hostile Operational Surveillance, Interrogations, Investigations, Judicial Security, Military Security, Parking Security Services, Security Operations, Strike Security, Surveillance, Threat Analysis, Tribal Security and Partnerships
BOARD OF DIRECTOR APPOINTMENTS:
Careerline Tech Center – Security Board Member
Lakeshore Security Council – Advisory Council Member
Email: joebudnik@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Joe Budnik Director of Operations
West Michigan
Jason Knight
Director of Operations
Mid Michigan
“One of my favorite parts about my job is working the outdoor music festivals every summer.”
Specializations:
Armed Operations, CCTV, College/University Campus Security, CPL Firearms, Defense Tactics Instructor, Event Management, Investigations, Judicial Security, Military Security, Organized Retail Crime, Retail Security, Security Operations, Surveillance
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy hunting, outdoor activities, and working on cars.
Email: jasonknight@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2007. Loss Prevention Store Detective Loss Prevention Lead Loss Prevention Supervisor Loss Prevention Manager Director of Operations – Mid-Michigan
Jason Knight Director of Operations
Mid Michigan
Nancy Rhodes
Director of Human Resources
“It is an honor to work for a Christian based company where the owners are caring and compassionate to all employees, as well as giving back to the community.”
Education:
Graduated from Muskegon Community College & Cornerstone University
Extracurriculars:
Shopping, reading, and watching HGTV for new home decorating ideas!
Email: nancyrhodes@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 1999. Administrative Assistant Background Screening & HonorLine Manager Human Resources Manager Human Resources Director
Nancy Rhodes DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Stephanie Schoenherr, SHRM-CP
Director of Recruiting
“I love the family atmosphere and the people I work with. I always tell people that I’ve worked at DK for 12 years and I’ve never been bored with my job.”
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Psychology & Family Studies – Central Michigan University
Extracurriculars:
Sailing on Lake Michigan and exploring downtown Grand Rapids (aka Beer City USA)!
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2006. Event Staff Command Center Operator Security Officer Human Resources Assistant HR and Operations Manager Senior HR and Operations Manager Director of Recruiting
Stephanie Schoenherr Director of Recruiting
Tom Conrad
Executive Director - House of Worship Security
“My favorite part about working at DK is being able to help others grow and develop. The circle of life!”
Experience:
Police Lieutenant, Director of Security at Blodgett Memorial Medical Center, Security Program Administrator for City of Grand Rapids. 11 years at DK Security.
Education:
Ferris State University, Bachelor of Science – Police Administration & Business Management
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy family activities, church, and going up north to the solitude of the woods.
Specializations:
Access Control Systems, Active Shooter Response, Armed Operations, Automated Fire Systems, CCTV, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator, CPR Instructor, Emergency Response Planning, Health Care Security, House of Worship Security, Interrogations, Investigations, Parking Security Services, Security Operations, Surveillance, Threat Analysis
Email: tomconrad@dksecurity.com
Tom Conrad Executive Director
House of Worship Security
Mel Southwell
Director of Compliance and Training
“My favorite part about working at DK is two-fold: the learning and growth opportunities available and the people, both corporate and security officers.”
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Human Resources and Legal Studies at Central Michigan University
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy coaching a U13 girls soccer travel team, running in various marathons and 25k’s, cooking and reading.
Email: melsouthwell@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2018. Account Scheduler Director of Compliance and Training
Mel Southwell Director of Compliance & Training
Luke Bowen
Account Director
“I like being able to work with many different individuals, but there’s still a family atmosphere at DK.”
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice – Grand Valley State University
Extracurriculars:
I’m an Ohio State football fan who likes to hunt, fish, and attend concerts. Go Buckeyes!
Specializations:
Access Control Systems, Armed Operations, Automated Fire Systems, CCTV, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator, Executive Protection, Interrogations, Investigations, Organized Retail Crime, Retail Security, Security Operations, Surveillance, Threat Analysis.
Email: lukebowen@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2015. Loss Prevention Detective Loss Prevention Supervisor Loss Prevention Manager Account Director
Luke Bowen ACCOUNT DIRECTOR
Johnny Kendall
Director of Marketing & Business Development
“We truly have amazing leaders here at DK Security. No matter what the challenge is, we always come together as a team to successfully complete the job.”
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Business – Hope College
Extracurriculars:
I like to spend my time where there’s sun and sand, unless the sand is on the golf course.
Email: johnnykendall@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Started in 2011. Human Resources Assistant Recruiter Human Resources and Operations Manager Director of Marketing & Business Development
Johnny Kendall Director of Marketing & Business Development
Lori Gaier
Marketing & Communications Manager
Education:
Bachelors of Science, Fashion Merchandising – The Ohio State University
Extracurriculars:
I love my family, traveling, concerts, volleyball, and golf.
Email: lorigaier@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2014. Marketing Assistant Marketing & Communications Manager
Lori Gaier Marketing & Communications Manager
Brigid Smith
Executive Assistant & Investigations Manager
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Criminal Justice – Michigan State University
Paralegal Certification – Davenport University
Extracurriculars:
Spending time with family and friends, cooking, and travelling.
Specializations:
Security Law and Licensing Regulations
Medical Background Investigations
Paralegal
Email: brigidsmith@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2005. Intern Human Resources Assistant Executive Assistant Executive Assistant & Investigations Manager
Brigid Smith Executive Assistant & Investigations Manager
Kenton Cooper
Operations Manager
West Michigan
“My favorite part about working at DK is being a part of the family atmosphere and being able to work in different security capacities.”
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Business – Calvin College
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy woodworking, hiking, camping, playing sports, cooking, traveling, and hanging out with friends and family.
Specializations:
Active Shooter Response, Armed Operations, CCTV, Event Management, House of Worship, Security Operations, Threat Analysis
Career Path at DK Security
Kenton Cooper Operations Manager
West Michigan
Lydia VanDoorne
Operations Manager
West Michigan
“I am passionate about doing my best to ensure that those around me are as successful as possible.”
Education:
Current student at Grand Rapids Community College studying Criminal Justice
Extracurriculars:
– Riding my motorcycle
– Any outdoor activities
– Traveling
– Spending time with nieces and nephews
Specializations:
Security Operations & Surveillance
Career Path at DK Security
Lydia VanDoorne Operations Manager
West Michigan
Amanda Merritt
Operations Manager West Michigan
“My favorite part about working at DK is how supportive everyone is, they are always willing to provide their help and experience to accomplish our goals.”
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy spending time with my family, boating, and going for motorcycle rides with friends and family.
Specializations:
CCTV, Interrogations, Investigations, Organized Retail Crime, Retail Security, Security Operations, Surveillance
Email: amandamerritt@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2019. Operations Manager
Amanda Merritt Operations Manager
West Michigan
Keith Allen
Operations Manager West Michigan
“My favorite thing about DK is the familylike atmosphere of the staff.”
Military:
8 years in the United States Army, Military Police
Extracurriculars:
Reading, Carpentry, and Pop Culture
Specializations:
Active Shooter Training, Armed Operations, CCTV, CPL Firearms, Emergency Response Planning, Event Management, Explosive Recognition, Hostile Operations Surveillance, Interrogations, Investigations, Military Security, Organized Crime Retail, Security Operations, Surveillance, Threat Analysis
Email: keithallen@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2004. Uniform Security Officer Armed Security Officer Security Officer Army (8 Years) Rehired 2019. Operations Manager
Keith Allen Operations Manager
West Michigan
RJ Wachterhauser
Operations Manager
Mid Michigan
“My favorite part about working for DK is being able to work with a ton of incredible people”
Extracurriculars:
I’m a big University of Michigan football fan. I also enjoy volunteering at the local police department where I am a Reserve Police Officer.
Specializations:
CCTV, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator, CPR Instructor, Retail Security, Security Operations
RJ Wachterhauser Operations Manager
Mid Michigan
Elias Williams
Operations Manager
West Michigan
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Business & Music – Aquinas College
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy reading, travelling, and playing the guitar.
Specializations
Armed Operations, College/University Campus Security, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator, Event Management, Judicial Security, Security Operations, Threat Analysis
Email: eliaswilliams@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2014. Security Officer Assistant Supervisor Command Center Supervisor Operations Manager
Elias Williams SR. operations Manager
EASt Michigan
Austin Howard
Operations Manager
East Michigan
Education:
Bachelors of Science in Business Administration – Central Michigan University
Extracurriculars:
I’m a big fan of Monday Trivia Nights and the Detroit Tigers.
Specializations:
Armed Operations, College/University Campus Security, CPL Firearms, CPR Evaluator, Investigations, Security Operations
Email: austinhoward@dksecurity.com
Career Path at DK Security
Hired in 2017. Human Resources Generalist Operations Manager
Austin Howard Operations Manager
EAST MICHIGAN
Jeff Polny
Operations Manager
East Michigan
Experience:
Previously worked for the Michigan State Police as a Lead Dispatcher for 18 years.
Extracurriculars:
I like listening to music and reading. Also, I’m heavily involved in volunteer work; Dearborn GoodFellows Executive Board for 28 years, Special Olympics Michigan – Law Enforcement Torch Run for 11 years.
Education:
Bachelor in Business Administration – William Tyndale College
Specializations:
Active Shooter Response, Armed Operations, CCTV, CPR Evaluator, Emergency Response Planning, Event Management, Executive Protection, Investigations, Security Operations, Threat Analysis
Email: jeffpolny@dksecurity.com
Jeff Polny Operations Manager
East Michigan
Amanda Sprinkle
Operations Manager
East Michigan
“I’m passionate about ensuring my people are happy and that they feel comfortable asking for help when needed. Everyone needs to have support to be successful, and as an Operations Manager I believe being a part of this support is key to the success.”
Education:
Associate, Criminal Justice
Bachelor, Psychology
Masters, Administration of Justice and Security
– University of Phoenix
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy crafting, reading and PC gaming. I am an animal lover and have multiple pets including a dog, ferret, turtle, and parrot.
Specializations:
Access Control Systems, Armed Operations, CCTV, CPL Firearms, Emergency Response Planning, Event Management, Retail Security, Security Operations
Amanda Sprinkle Operations Manager
East Michigan
Carl Wilkins Sr., CPS, CPSDPS
Executive Protection Specialist / Firearms Instructor
“At DK Security, I am given opportunities to make a change in someone’s performance and in someone’s life. My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with passion, compassion, humor, and style. At DK Security, I get to do all of these things and beyond, which makes it a great place to work.”
Carl joined the team back in 2017 and brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the company. Before joining DK Security, he spent 12 years in law enforcement. For two of those years, he was assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducting major drug investigations. He specialized in police tactical operations, gang investigations, major drug and undercover investigations, S.W.A.T. and police sniper operations, and intelligence operations.
Military:
15 years in the United States Army. Operated as a Sniper within a small team that supported over four hundred soldiers on major operations in wartime environments.
Extracurriculars:
I enjoy participating in tactical shooting competitions, volunteering in the community, and outdoor activities.
Honors & Awards:
- Best Overall Achievement In 29 Day Residency
- Best Overall Individual Achievement in Threat Assessment
- Letter of Recognition – Life Saving Actions
- Medal of Valor – United States Army
- Army Commendation Medal
- Distinguished Honor Graduate
- Army Achievement Medal
- Freedom Ring Certificate of Appreciation
- Certificate of Achievement in Combat Operations
Carl Wilkins Executive Protection Specialist / Firearms Instructor
Dr. Kathryn A. Kendall, Ph.d.
Forensic Psychologist
Education:
Doctor of Philosophy: Forensic and Clinical Psychology
Union Institute and University
Master of Arts: Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology
Western Michigan University
Bachelor of Science: Psychology
Specializations
Forensic Psychology
Limited License Psychologist
Security Operations
Interrogations and Detection of Deception
Forensic Psychology
High Risk Terminations
Threat Assessment
Psychological Pre-employment Screening
Trauma Response and Posttraumatic Stress
