Our Founders
Niibawi Security brings together Indigenous leadership, public-sector experience and more than three decades of security-industry knowledge. Founded by Laura Gagnon and Robin St. Martin, the company reflects a shared conviction: effective security depends on capable people, sound judgment and the trust of the communities it serves.
As President, Laura leads Niibawi’s direction with a focus on cultural integrity, respectful engagement and Indigenous economic participation. Robin contributes the operational and business experience developed through founding and building Iron Horse Security since 1994.
Laura Gagnon
Co-Founder and President
Master of Arts in Communication
Laura Gagnon is an Anishinaabe kwe from Treaty 9 territory whose career brings together strategic communications, federal public service and Indigenous advocacy. As Co-Founder and President of Niibawi Security, she guides the company’s vision and its commitment to responsible business practices, cultural safety and meaningful Indigenous participation.
Her professional experience includes work in the Office of the Deputy Minister at the Department of National Defence, executive support at the Senior Assistant Deputy Minister level, and communications advisory work within the federal government. She brings experience working across executive offices and communications functions where discretion, accuracy and clear communication are essential.
Laura holds a Master of Arts in Communication and an undergraduate degree in Communication and Media Studies with a minor in Indigenous Studies. Her background spans consultation, communications, education and cultural engagement, connecting academic knowledge with practical experience in public institutions and community settings.
At Niibawi, Laura’s leadership emphasizes respect for Indigenous rights, community protocols and knowledge systems. She is committed to translating those principles into substantive participation in leadership, employment, training and business relationships, with opportunities that support lasting skills and career development.
Laura is also a hand drum singer and jingle dress dancer. Her spirit name, Niibawi Mishdodem, means Standing Horse. These cultural foundations inform the sense of responsibility she brings to her work and the relationships on which Niibawi is built.
Robin St. Martin
Co-Founder
Founder and President of Iron Horse Security
Robin St. Martin brings more than three decades of experience in security services, investigations and business leadership to Niibawi Security. He founded Iron Horse Security in 1994 and has built his career around the people, systems and service standards required to protect clients and the public.
His early career included Police Foundations studies at Algonquin College and work as a civilian agent with the Ottawa Carleton Regional Police in its Criminal Investigation Division. He subsequently served as General Manager of a private investigation firm before establishing Iron Horse Security.
Through Iron Horse, Robin has developed experience across government, institutional and commercial security environments. His work has encompassed security personnel, mobile patrols, investigations, training and the use of technology to support service delivery. Throughout that work, he has emphasized well-prepared employees, professional conduct and an approach to security that combines vigilance with respect for the people being served.
Robin brings Niibawi practical experience in building teams, establishing service expectations and developing long-term client relationships. His contribution connects business planning with the operational demands of recruitment, supervision, workforce development and consistent service delivery.
His commitment to community also extends to the Bug and Birdie Foundation, which he founded to support children facing disadvantage. The foundation provides bicycles, helmets and locks, recognizing acts of community service and courage while encouraging young people to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Our approach to leadership
Laura and Robin bring complementary experience to Niibawi: Indigenous leadership and public-sector communications, alongside established security operations and business management.
Their shared priorities are clear accountability, dependable service and respectful treatment of the people affected by security decisions. Together, they are building Niibawi around consistent expectations for employee conduct, communication and client service, while creating pathways for Indigenous training, employment and advancement.
For government, institutional and commercial clients, this means a leadership team attentive to both the operational requirements of an assignment and the relationships essential to its success.
Discuss your security requirements
Speak with the Niibawi Security team about your organization’s needs.
613-228-2837