chief james p. doane, Phd
We believe all security personnel play a vital part in our nation's security and the safety of it's citizens. Private Security officers need to be highly trained as warriors to be properly prepared for what lies ahead.
Our journey as entrepreneurs started in 1981 when we created a school specifically designed to train private security officers. We called our school, Security Institute. In the early days, we held our classes at night in a tiny brown brick building across the street from the original Texas Workforce Center in Downtown Beaumont, Texas. Fast forward to today, we have a team of employees, have trained over 30,000 students in our online and in-person courses, and have strategic partnerships with some of the top companies across Texas, Missouri, and Louisiana who have trusted us to train their security employees. We have built a reputation as educators who have helped transform not only the Private Security Training industry, but also the lives of many for the better.
In the past few years, as we have entered the new and exciting season of becoming great-grandparents, we've experienced some of life's greatest joys and I have walked through one of the darkest valleys with the passing of my husband. Our story is one of absolute joy, peace, love, determination and hope. Keep scrolling to meet our family, hear more of our story and get to know us.
Keeping the SI Magic running smooth
YVONNE DOANE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & MASTER INSTRUCTOR
Co-founder of Security Institute, Yvonne Doane brings over four decades of expertise in private security training and instruction as a Texas-licensed instructor for more than 44 years and an American First Aid certified instructor for over a decade. Away from Security Institute, she and her late husband have volunteered and been recognized as the Federal Bureau of Prisons Volunteers of the Year for 22 consecutive years. Yvonne holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lamar State College of Technology and serves as the licensed owner and company representative of Security Institute.
james p. "chief" doane
meet Our leadership
team
in memory of our founder
1945-2025
Chief James Patrick “Chief” Doane (Ret.) founded Security Institute with a steadfast vision: to elevate the standards of security and law enforcement training through integrity, knowledge, and service. A true protector, mentor, and innovator, Chief Doane devoted his life to advancing public safety and empowering others to do the same. With over 40 years of distinguished service in criminal justice, Chief Doane retired as Chief Deputy Sheriff of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. A Master Peace Officer and Licensed TCOLE Instructor, he was widely respected for his expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to professional excellence.
Beyond his law enforcement career, Chief Doane served as Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security at Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT), where he inspired and educated future generations of criminal justice professionals. Over his lifetime, he contributed nearly fou decades to proactive security education and training, leaving a lasting impact on countless students, officers, and industry professionals.
A decorated combat veteran of the United States Navy’s River Patrol Force, Chief Doane’s dedication to service began early and continued throughout his life. His extensive education included an Associate and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Lamar University, a Master’s and Ph.D. from Columbia Pacific University, and he was a graduate of Sam Houston State University’s Leadership Command College.
Chief Doane’s specialized training was extensive and internationally recognized, including completion of the Houston Police Academy SWAT Commander School, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Central Training Academy, and International Counter-Terrorism Training in the United Kingdom. He also served on a U.S. Secret Service Personal Protection Detail, reflecting the highest levels of trust and capability in his field.
Chief Doane’s leadership and integrity defined Security Institute from its very beginning. His mission was never just about training — it was about equipping individuals with the confidence, discipline, and heart to protect others.
Though he is no longer with us, his principles of honor, service, and education continue to guide every aspect of our work. His legacy lives on through the instructors he mentored, the students he taught, and the lives he changed.
We proudly carry forward Chief Doane’s vision — honoring his life’s work by ensuring that his commitment to safety, excellence, and service continues to inspire generations to come.
BRAD BROWN
LEVEL 3 & SENIOR FIREARMS PROFICIENCY INSTRUCTOR
Brad Brown is a senior firearms instructor, entrepreneur, and leader with extensive project management and leadership experience. He brings a practical, results-driven approach to training, focusing on safety, tactics, and skill development that is effective and easy to understand. A National Rifle Association Licensed Firearms Instructor and Texas License to Carry Instructor, Brad is committed to helping students of all levels gain confidence and competence with firearms. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University – Idaho and is Chief Executive Officer of Stratos LTC.
DIXIE BROWN
CHIEF OPERATING S OFFICER
As Chief Operations Officer of Security Institute, Dixie Brown brings more than two decades of experience as an entrepreneur, professional trainer, and executive. Dixie pursued her Bachelor of Arts in English at Lamar University and Entrepreneurship and Business Management at the University of London, combining strong communication skills with a practical, business-driven mindset. Mentored by her father, the late Chief James Patrick Doane, Dixie carries forward his legacy of integrity, service, and dedication to others. She is passionate about creating programs that empower individuals to protect, lead, and serve with confidence and skill while growing the Security Institute brand. She leads with authenticity and a deep respect for those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their communities and our great nation.
in memory of our founder
1945-2025
1945-2025
1945 - 2025
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