Contributed

The K2 Canine Training Center, a division of K2 Solutions Inc. (K2), is hosting seven-week courses for public safety officers and canine handlers interested in deploying person-borne weapons detection canines, with additional options for narcotics detection available upon request.

This advanced capability is unique, as traditional weapons detection dogs are not trained to detect weapons or contraband concealed on a person, a news release said. The Labrador retrievers trained to execute this capability are well-socialized, environmentally sound, and can scan crowds using nonevasive techniques designed to not impede the movement of people.

K2's handler instruction course for this capability includes training for the contact techniques necessary in dealing with an individual suspected of carrying a weapon.

The recent tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School and increasing capabilities within canine olfaction have spurred the need for this capability, which will provide public safety entities such as local law enforcement and school resources officers an invaluable tool in securing public places, the news release said. Schools, sports arenas and large public gatherings are the targeted market for this distinct and unique function of canine service.

K2 operates the largest commercial canine training center in the country, developing and training canine capabilities that include person-borne explosives detection, cellphone detection, improvised explosive device detection, combat tracking, apprehension, patrol and detection for buildings and articles, such as luggage.

Randy Rhynes, vice president of canine operations at K2, is anticipating success with this capability.

"We have known for years that canines are force multipliers no matter where they are employed," he stated. "Whatever the threat, we have found we can train canines to detect almost anything, and our canines have been proven time and again as efficient and effective tools for risk-based security.

"With the recent tragedies, we know we have a product that can help to mitigate these threats. We look forward to providing these important canine assets to those charged with protecting us."

Founded in 2003, K2 is a defense contractor with facilities and offices in Southern Pines, Derby and Jacksonville; Twentynine Palms, Calif.; and Virginia. With 274 employees currently, K2 provides a variety of services to the Department of Defense and commercial and private industry.

K2 has received multiple awards for its commitment and dedication to the employment of veterans over the past three years. These awards include the 2010 Top Veteran Employer from the Economic Commission of the American Legion, the 2011 Veteran Employer of the Year from both the Disabled Veterans of America Department of North Carolina and the American Legion of North Carolina.

Also in 2012, K2 ranked No. 603 on the Inc. 500|5000 list of Top Fastest Growing Private Companies.

K2 is a member of a number of national organizations, including the National Defense Industry Association, the Association of the United States Army, and the Special Operations Forces Association, and contributes annually to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, the Unit Scholarship Fund and local charities.