About Us
Christ is our foundation. At WatchGate LLC, our purpose is rooted in faith, integrity, and service. Founded in Mississippi’s Golden Triangle, we exist to protect people and secure purpose through faith-driven professionalism and tactical excellence.
With over a decade of security management experience supporting the Department of Defense, three years specializing in quantitative risk assessments, and prior law enforcement service including SWAT operations, WatchGate delivers informed, data-backed protection strategies tailored to the uniqe needs of churches, schools, businesses, and organizations of every size.
We believe true security begins with preparation – not fear. Our approach combines statistical risk analysis with real-world expertise to identify vulnerabilities before they become threats. From physical security consulting to strategic readiness planning, every recommendation we make is built to preserve life and peace of mind.
Protecting People. Securing Purpose. Serving with Heart.
Nate Avara
Founder
Nate is a United State Marine Corps veteran and brings over a decade of security management expertise with the Department of Defense, where he developed and implemented protection strategies for high-value assets and critical infrastructure. His background also includes two years of law enforcement, including service on a SWAT team, where he gained firsthand knowledge in rapid response, crisis management, and tactical operations.
Nate holds a Bachelor of Homeland Security (Summa Cum Laude) from Eastern Kentucky University and maintains advanced professional certifications, including:
Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) – Center for Development of Security Excellence
Physical Security Certification (PSC) – Center for Development of Security Excellence
Security Engineering Planning Assistance Training – Navy Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center
Eric Echevarria
Founder
Eric brings a unique blend of private-sector security expertise and public-sector program administration to WatchGate. He began his career with ADT, where he gained extensive experience in the installation, configuration, and management of electronic security systems. Working directly with clients, he developed tailored protection solutions designed to mitigate risk and ensure the safety of people and property. His time with ADT established a strong foundation in threat assessment, operational reliability, and the importance of responsive service in maintaining secure environments.
Over the past decade, Eric has served in government administration, managing complex and sensitive programs that require precision, discretion, and strict compliance with regulatory standards. His background combines technical acumen with disciplined process management, enabling him to operate effectively in highly regulated and mission-critical settings. This dual expertise allows him to bridge the gap between hands-on security operations and strategic program oversight, ensuring a comprehensive approach to protection, compliance, and organizational performance.
Eric holds a Master of Science in Project Management from Colorado State University and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) through the Project Management Institute (PMI).