UAPD Hires Colin Urquizo as Physical Security System Administrator

The U of A Police Department has hired Colin Urquizo as physical security system administrator.

Urquizo previously served as an electronics technician with University Housing for the U of A, where he managed fire alarm and access control systems for residential facilities. During that time, he worked closely with UAPD to develop innovative security solutions, including the design of a new emergency exit door system that enhances both campus safety and emergency egress capabilities.

A native of Redlands, California, Urquizo brings a diverse background in military services, telecommunications, physical security and higher education to the department. He joined the U.S. Army in 2012 at 18 years old, serving in Germany, Fort Irwin and Afghanistan. During his military career, Urquizo managed radio communications equipment, gaining valuable technical experience that would later help him in his future career roles.

Following his military career, Urquizo worked in telecommunications, electronic security and engineering-related roles, supporting organizations ranging from public safety agencies to major corporations. His experience includes installing radio systems for law enforcement and fire departments, maintaining security and automation systems, managing large-scale physical security projects, and overseeing teams responsible for fire alarms, access control, intrusion detection and CCTV systems.

A graduate of DeVry University, Urquizo holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electronics engineering technology and has earned several professional certifications, including NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level II and Bosch G Series Security Expert.

Urquizo is passionate about creating a safer environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors.

"I want to make the University of Arkansas a safer place to live, work and study," he said. "I look forward to affecting decision-making on campus through collaborative outreach and advising our community on how to integrate and expand our access control capabilities."

In his new role, Urquizo brings planning and innovation to campus physical security initiatives. His goal is to help standardize and modernize access control systems across the university while working closely with campus partners to ensure solutions meet the needs of all stakeholders. He will help develop a long-term roadmap for access control improvements that will strengthen safety across campus for years to come.

"Even though Colin is located in UAPD, we anticipate he will have a universitywide impact focusing on access control and CCTV systems, working with our other critical partners in advancing our campus safety footprint," said Chief Stephen Gahagans, director of university police.

Long-term, Urquizo plans to pursue a Master of Science in Operations Management as well as his Physical Security Professional certification. 

"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to further serve the University of Arkansas," he said. "I want to thank God for providing me with this opportunity, and I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and development of campus safety."