Securing a dream of owning a business

With an extensive military background spanning more than 28 years, Lawrence Conrad has taken his passion for training from the military into life as a civilian. Founding Independent Armored Transport (IAT) in 1996, Lawrence has focused on professionalizing the security and armored transport industry.

With a focus on customer service, IAT provides an enhanced level of security and flexibility not available with national carriers. One year after IAT began, Lawrence was approached to also provide security services. As a result, Independent Security Services Atlantic. (ISS) was born.

Having turned to CUA for the necessary financing arrangements required to start the business, Lawrence says CUA gave him an opportunity to pursue his business dream. "They have been with me through the entire evolution and growth of my business," he says. "At CUA, you feel like you're a part of something bigger than yourself, and that's outstanding."

Lawrence has been recognized as entrepreneur of the year in 2003 by BDC, as well as placing in Progress Magazine’s “Fastest Growing Companies” list for Atlantic Canada eight years in a row.

As a pioneer in the security and armored car industry, IAT and ISS have contributed to improved legislation, training and professionalism in the industry.  As a result, the companies have grown steadily from a two-person armored car operation and a four-person security team to an operation spanning three companies, four divisions, and 200 staff across Metro Halifax and Northern Nova Scotia.

In 2016, Lawrence and IAT celebrated 20 years in business at a grand opening in the company’s new location in Bayer’s Lake.

Today, ISS, MSS and IAT make up the largest security force in Atlantic Canada.  Their facility is home to a classroom, a training facility and gym, along with other secure facilities required to carry out their everyday work (safe, guns, ATMs, vehicles, etc.).

For more information on CUA's commercial services, including account and financing options for your business needs, click here.