Detection Dog Spotlight: Jim Gibson and Nugget

Partnered with Handler Jim Gibson of Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, the three-year-old Goldador—a mix of Golden Retriever and Labrador—sweeps busy stadiums and entertainment venues with precision and poise, helping to keep fans, staff, and performers safe.

Nugget and Jim are part of a network of more than 1,000 Allied Universal detection canine teams deployed globally. Goldadors like Nugget are especially suited for high-traffic public settings. With their friendly, non-intimidating appearance, they blend naturally into corporate and entertainment environments while remaining laser-focused on detection. “She might look easygoing, but Nugget is incredibly sharp,” Jim says. “The moment we step into a venue, she’s tuned in and ready to work.”

Stadium work brings unique challenges compared to more controlled environments like air cargo screening. Nugget must process an ever-changing mix of odors from hundreds of people, food, equipment, and gear—all while navigating loud, high-energy crowds. “She thrives on the energy,” Jim says. “It takes a lot of concentration and constant awareness, but she has an incredible nose for odor and high energy.” 
 

A Career Built on K9 Expertise 
 

For Jim Gibson, working alongside a detection dog is not just a career—it’s been a lifelong calling. Before joining Allied Universal in 2024, Jim spent over 30 years with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office in Washington, including 24 years as a canine handler. He worked with four patrol dogs trained in tracking, apprehension, handler protection, and narcotics detection.

As the Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit Trainer for 16 years, Jim led five dog teams while also mentoring handlers across other jurisdictions. His expertise earned him recognition as a subject matter expert with the Washington State Supreme Court. An active member of the Washington State Police Canine Association (WSPCA) for nearly two decades, he became a Master Trainer and Master Handler, overseeing statewide accreditations and scenario-based training.

“I always knew this was what I wanted to do,” Jim says. “Working with dogs has been the most rewarding part of my career—the partnership, the trust, and the way you learn from each other every day.” 

Service Runs Deep
 

Steven’s foundation in service and security began with the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a law enforcement specialist at Osan Air Base in South Korea. Tasked with safeguarding personnel and critical assets, Steven honed his skills in vigilance, discipline, and situational awareness—traits that continue to support his career.
After leaving the military, Steven joined the Will County Sheriff’s Office in Illinois where he started work as a handler with a patrol and narcotics dog. Over 28 years, he rose through the ranks to become both the Canine Unit Supervisor and the SWAT Team Commander. “My military service and law enforcement career taught me the importance of responsibility, preparedness, and staying alert,” Steven says. “Those values stay with you, and they shape how you lead and how you train.”
 

He joined Allied Universal in 2016, bringing decades of experience, a calm command presence, and a deep understanding of canine operations. His first partner, Venus, was by his side until her retirement and passing in early 2024. “She was special,” Steven says. “Losing her was tough. Armin came along at the right time. He is different, but just as committed.”

Training that Sets the Standard

AI-generated content may be incorrect.Jim and Nugget’s partnership began at Allied Universal’s 75,000-square-foot flagship training center in Windsor, CT, where all detection canines are imprinted on the five families of commercial explosives, as well as homemade explosives (HMEs) and firearm-related odors. A clear distinction of the program is that Allied Universal canines are never trained on pseudo odors, ensuring that their detection skills are based solely on real-world explosive compounds. All 11 of the company’s advanced training facilities are licensed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and designed to replicate challenging, high-risk scenarios. This comprehensive approach equips each team with the skills and confidence needed to perform in dynamic, unpredictable environments.

To keep skills sharp, Jim and Nugget undergo ongoing sustainment training directly in their region. Field Supervisor Steven Hunter—featured in the July 2025 Detection Dog Spotlight—regularly visits his teams unannounced, running realistic exercises, evaluating performance, and helping teams remain at peak readiness. “Training never stops,” Jim explains. “Nugget is food-reward trained, so every session feels like a game with a purpose. She loves it, and it keeps her detection skills razor-sharp.” 

Life Outside of Work

Who says detection dogs don’t dive into weekends? After high-stakes detection duties, Nugget is ready to swap stadium sweeps for splash sessions. The pool is her playground, where she bounds in with unfiltered joy and endless energy. Daily walks and cool-weather hikes keep her sharp, but there’s nothing she loves more than a long afternoon of fetch and splash.

For Jim, these moments are a reminder of the unique bond they share. “She gives everything she has on the job, and it’s just as rewarding to see her let loose and enjoy being a dog,” he says.