MATT VANWAGONER
Orem
Summary
Results-oriented and detail-focused leader with extensive expertise in security, investigation, and risk mitigation across corporate, law enforcement, and military environments. Proficient in managing complex security incidents while operating autonomously and providing strategic guidance to stakeholders at all levels. Recognized for exceptional skills in conflict resolution, de-escalation, and cross-functional coordination, ensuring a proactive approach to safety and security challenges. Committed to fostering a secure environment through innovative solutions and effective communication.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Safety Officer (Part-Time)
Sundance Mountain Resort
08.2025 - Current
- Serve as first responder to all employee and guest injuries, providing initial medical attention, scene control, and coordinating necessary resources. (Certified in CPR/First Aid).
- Perform executive protection duties, escorting VIP guests and managing logistics in a discrete and unobtrusive manner while prioritizing their security and satisfaction.
- Conduct regular security and safety checks, ensuring compliance with resort policy and state laws while managing access control and preventing unauthorized entry.
- Act as a front-line resource to de-escalate heated situations involving guests or staff members.
Lead Employee Relations Investigator
Sizzling Platter, LLC
02.2021 - 09.2025
- Lead all internal investigations for a national company operating over 800 restaurants across multiple brands, specializing in incidents of theft, fraud, workers' compensation, assault, and employee misconduct.
- Conduct thorough investigations by reviewing video footage (CCTV), gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and analyzing computer/document logs to identify trends and necessary proactive security actions.
- Provide regular guidance to C-Suite executives and leadership at all levels to maximize safe practices, reduce organizational liability, and control costs.
- Ensure proper investigation and resolution by coordinating efforts with Legal, Human Resources, and IT departments, as well as external Police Departments.
- Develop and conduct security, safety, and HR-related training and seminars, coaching leaders from new hires to regional managers.
- Operate effectively in a hybrid office/work-from-home setting, demonstrating self-management and high personal accountability.
Police Officer
Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake
06.2013 - 08.2020
- Functioned as a Patrol Officer, successfully managing complex and varying calls for service, requiring high personal organization and autonomous decision-making.
- Served as an operator on the Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) team, organizing complex logistics and managing fellow officers to achieve safe operational outcomes.
- Assisted the Metro Gang Unit in the investigation and location of fugitives, leveraging technical knowledge and time management skills alongside primary patrol duties.
Corrections Officer
Salt Lake County Jail
03.2012 - 06.2013
- Provided direct supervision of up to 80 inmates at a time, maintaining a secure and safe facility through strict adherence to policy.
- Utilized strong leadership skills to guide daily inmate routines, promoting a secure environment.
Infantryman
United States Army (E-4)
05.2007 - 09.2011
- Functioned as a Fire Team Leader, directly supervising and mentoring four soldiers in operational and technical tasks.
- Responsible for team training and maintaining unit cohesion to ensure maximum operational effectiveness.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Criminal Justice - Organizational Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
09.2025
Skills
- INVESTIGATION & RISK
- SECURITY & LEADERSHIP
- EMERGENCY RESPONSE
- Theft/Fraud Investigations
- Conflict Management
- First Aid/CPR Certified
- Workers' Compensation Law
- Access Control & Perimeter Security
- Crisis Management/Intervention
- Physical Security Risk Assessment
- Executive Protection Procedures
- Developing Emergency Plans
- CCTV/Video Analysis
- Policy & Compliance Enforcement
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Report Writing & Case Management
- Team Leadership & Mentoring
- Security Alarm Response
Certification
- Physical Security Professional (PSP)
- Loss Prevention Qualified (LPQ)
- Certified Security Officer (CSO)
- Armed Security License / Guard Card
- CPR Certification / First Aid Certification
- Peace Officer Certification (Inactive since 2020)
- Driver's License (Non-CDL Class C)
Timeline
Safety Officer (Part-Time)
Sundance Mountain Resort
08.2025 - Current
Lead Employee Relations Investigator
Sizzling Platter, LLC
02.2021 - 09.2025
Police Officer
Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake
06.2013 - 08.2020
Corrections Officer
Salt Lake County Jail
03.2012 - 06.2013
Infantryman
United States Army (E-4)
05.2007 - 09.2011
Bachelor's Degree - Criminal Justice - Organizational Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
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