Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicholas Brantley.
Hi Nicholas, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Viking Defense, Inc., a security agency, was founded in 2008 by my parents, Ricky and Annette Brantley, following their retirements from two distinct but complementary careers, my father from law enforcement and my mother from education. With a shared vision to make a lasting impact on the community, they combined their skills and experience to create a company rooted in safety, integrity, and service.
Shortly after launching the security business, they expanded their mission by opening a security training school, empowering others to build careers in the field and strengthening community safety from the ground up.
For many years, I supported the company behind the scenes, learning its operations and values firsthand. In 2023, as my parents entered their second retirement, I proudly took on the role of Director of Operations, continuing their legacy of excellence and community focus.
Under my leadership, Viking Defense has entered an exciting new chapter. We recently relocated to our new headquarters at 5500 NW 27th Ave, Miami, Florida 33142, refreshed our brand and logo, and launched a new website reflecting our modernized vision. Today, Viking Defense stands strong with 10 active contracts across Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, Brownsville, Allapattah, Opa Locka, and Sunrise—and we’re continuing to grow.
At Viking Defense, our mission remains the same: to protect, educate, and serve our communities with professionalism, reliability, and heart.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like many entrepreneurs, my path to leading Viking Defense, Inc. has not been without its challenges. Before taking over operations, I had built my own business in real estate and believed that experience would easily translate into running a security company. However, I quickly learned that every industry brings its own unique lessons. In business, every day carries the possibility of an unexpected challenge, something every entrepreneur eventually comes to understand firsthand.
One of the biggest hurdles in the security industry is employee turnover. It’s no secret that the field traditionally experiences high attrition, and I was determined to change that. From my corporate background, I knew that a happy employee is a loyal employee, and that morale directly impacts performance and client satisfaction. I spent time researching ways to provide real incentives and benefits that would support my team—both professionally and personally—without adding unsustainable costs to the company.
Through persistence, we partnered with a provider who combined our payroll and workers’ compensation services, allowing us to offer indemnity plans and additional benefits that help our employees manage challenges outside of work. This partnership not only improved retention but also strengthened our company culture.
The economy has also presented its share of obstacles—rising operational costs, inflation affecting both clients and employees, and navigating new compliance regulations. We’ve faced challenges in recruitment, adapting to changing security technology, and balancing competitive pricing while maintaining the high standards our clients expect.
Despite it all, these experiences have made us stronger. Each setback has pushed us to innovate, communicate better, and stay true to the principles my parents founded Viking Defense on: integrity, resilience, and community impact. Every obstacle has been an opportunity to evolve—and we continue to do so with confidence and gratitude for how far we’ve come.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Viking Defense, Inc., is more than a security company; we are a community-centered organization dedicated to protection, professionalism, and people. Founded in 2008 by my parents, a retired law enforcement officer and an educator, Viking Defense was built on a foundation of integrity, discipline, and service. Today, under my leadership as Director of Operations, we proudly continue their legacy while bringing fresh innovation and a renewed focus on employee and community development.
We specialize in comprehensive security solutions for residential and commercial clients across Miami-Dade County and Broward County. Viking Defense is certified, licensed, and insured, offering a full range of services including unarmed security officers, event security, mobile patrols, concierge-style security, and professional security training through our state-certified school, where we help prepare the next generation of security professionals.
What truly sets Viking Defense apart is that we are a Black-owned, minority business located in an economically challenged neighborhood, committed to creating real opportunity where it’s needed most. We take pride in providing jobs to residents, helping stimulate our community’s economy, and supporting families facing the rising cost of living in Miami. Our mission goes beyond security; it’s about educating, empowering, and uplifting the people we serve.
Brand-wise, we are proud of our refreshed image, modernized logo, and new headquarters at 5500 NW 27th Ave, Miami, Florida 33142. These updates reflect our growth and ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service.
At Viking Defense, we don’t just protect communities, we build them!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Born and raised right here in Miami, Florida, I truly believe this is paradise. There’s nowhere else like home! Miami’s breathtaking sunrises, majestic waters, Caribbean vibes, exotic food, and a vibrant multicultural community that brings so much energy and life to everything. I’m probably Miami’s number one fan. I take pride in calling this city HOME and in being a part of what makes it great.
If I had to name a downside, it would definitely be the drivers, the traffic, and the tolls! But even with that, I wouldn’t trade this city for anywhere else. Miami’s beauty, resilience, and spirit make every day here something special.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vikingdefenseinc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vikingdefenseinc/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/viking-defense-inc-b9b6b5319
