Derk, with his extensive experience in the gaming industry, brings a unique perspective to security and surveillance. He has held executive positions at renowned establishments such as American Casino and Entertainment Properties, Grand Casinos, Bally’s, Aztar, Del E. Web, Corp., Palms Casino Resort, Tropicana Entertainment, and MGM Resorts. His role as Director of Surveillance at the Angel of the Winds Casino in Tribal gaming further solidifies his expertise. Derk now offers his services as a consultant, providing security and surveillance solutions tailored to commercial and tribal gaming properties.

Derk's leadership in security and surveillance is marked by his proactive approach. He has spearheaded the development of successful security, surveillance, and loss prevention programs. His expertise extends to risk assessments, emergency response planning, and business recovery strategies. Derk has also played a crucial role in preparing security and surveillance teams for emergency events through regular training and drills. His hands-on experience in threat assessment and risk management is a testament to his ability to handle critical events. As a consultant, he has advised Tribal Gaming properties on security and surveillance matters, and he is a recognized Partner with Raving Consulting.

Derk's commitment to professional development is evident in his numerous certifications. He is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), a Certified Protection Professional (CPP), and a Certified Surveillance Professional (CSP). He holds the prestigious position of President at the International Association of Certified Surveillance Professionals (IACSP), where he is also a founding member.

He co-authored Casino Security and Gaming Surveillance (2010) and Casino and Gaming Resort Investigations (2020). He is a respected author, instructor, and speaker, specializing in security and surveillance training and methodology, gaming protection, loss prevention, and the detection of internal and external theft and fraud.