The Story Behind Our Logo

People often ask about the distinctive logo of Anderson Investigative Associates, and there’s a meaningful story behind every element you see. When I designed this emblem, I wanted to create something that honored both my heritage and the principles that guide everything we do in investigative interviewing.

The logo draws its inspiration from the
Anderson Family Crest​

Featuring the same core elements that have represented our clan for centuries: the oak tree, the encircling belt, and the buckle. The oak tree symbolizes strength, endurance, and integrity – qualities that are absolutely essential in investigative work. The Anderson clan motto “Stand Sure” reflects a commitment to perseverance and steadfastness, principles that translate perfectly to the patient, methodical approach required in professional interviewing.

The belt that encircles our logo represents what we call the "Belt of Truth"

A fundamental concept in ethical investigative practice. In heraldic tradition, the belt and buckle symbolize “unbreakable strength of upholding loyalty” and “victorious fidelity in authority.” For us, this translates to our unwavering commitment to truthfulness, ethical conduct, and maintaining the highest standards of integrity in every interview we conduct. The buckle itself represents the secure binding of these principles – just as a buckle holds everything together, our ethical standards hold together every aspect of our investigative process.

This logo also serves as a tribute to my father,
William G. Anderson

Who spent 45 years as a teacher and principal. He lived by a simple but profound philosophy: “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being… Let me do it now. Let me not defeat or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” Dad’s approach to education – built on respect, preparation, and genuine care for others – directly influenced how I approach investigative interviewing.

The elements in our logo reflect the science-based principles we apply in every case:

The oak tree’s deep roots represent the thorough planning and preparation essential to effective interviews, while its strength symbolizes the credibility and confidence that comes from proper training and ethical practice. The encircling belt represents the rapport and trust we build with every person we interview, creating a secure environment where truth can emerge. Together, these elements remind us that investigative interviewing isn’t just about gathering facts – it’s about honoring the human dignity of everyone involved while maintaining the highest standards of professional integrity.

Every time you see our logo, you’re seeing a commitment to excellence that spans generations, from the ancient Anderson clan values to my father’s educational philosophy, all focused on the science and art of discovering truth through respectful, ethical investigative practice.

Testimonials

Mark’s training classes are a refreshing and engaging approach to gathering pertinent evidence during the interviewing process. Mark is extremely engaging and knowledgeable and presents the material in a way that draws the audience in.
Elizabeth L. Sherrod, CFE, LPI
Elizabeth L. Sherrod, CFE, LPICEO Sherrod Investigative Group, LLC Seminar Coordinator and Past President of the Knoxville ACFE
Mark’s training is engaging, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable, yet firmly grounded in the latest science.
Anthony Palmieri
Anthony PalmieriDeputy Inspector General | President, Palm Beach Economic Crimes Unit | Former President, National Guardianship Association
Mark has a myriad of law enforcement and public corruption investigation experience accumulated over many years that make him one of the highest rated instructors at the AIG Institutes. It is instructors of this caliber that help make the CIGI certification so valuable.
Stephen Street
Stephen StreetLouisiana State Inspector General
Mark Anderson is a vibrant, entertaining, engaging and knowledgeable speaker. The Jacksonville ACFE has had Mark speak at many of our engagements over the past few years. His style which includes stories, videos and audio clips to demonstrate points keeps the audience involved and leaves them wanting more no matter the length of the event.
Andrea ValentinVP Prepaid FIU at FSV Payment Systems (US Bank)
Mr. Anderson is uniquely qualified to develop and deliver interviewing and interrogation training to new and experienced criminal investigators, administrative investigators, auditors, inspectors, evaluators and other professionals charged with oversight, investigative, and law enforcement duties.
Robert RayDirector, Inspector General Criminal Investigator Academy
During Mark's tenure at the IG Academy, he managed or contributed significantly to the delivery of a majority of our training programs. Mark's expertise in investigative interviewing sets him apart. Mark is an outstanding and enthusiastic instructor who often received very favorable comments on his instruction and classroom management from both students and colleagues.
Angela HrdlickaIndependent Management, Security and Law Enforcement Consultant; Evernote Certified Consultant
I attended a training conducted by Mark regarding Ethics and Advanced Interviewing. By far, one of the best trainings I have received. Mark was engaging and knowledgeable on these issues. If you require investigations, interrogations, or interviewing training (to name a few) for your organization, I would highly recommend you contact Mark - immediately.
Julie HolladayInvestigator at TriCenturion
Our instructors are evaluated by the students who attend the Institute on a scale of 1 to 5. Mark has consistently received evaluations with an average score exceeding 4.5. He has been universally well received. He is an expert in his field and he delivers his lectures in an highly engaging, energetic and interactive way. He is certainly one of the highlights for our investigators during the week of training.
Philip ZismanJohn Jay College of Criminal Justice, Department of Public Management
Mark is without question one of the most technically qualified, knowledgeable, and dynamic trainers in the field of interviewing I have ever witnessed. As a certified trainer with nearly three decades of experience as an investigator, he possesses the hands on skill-set to present interviewing techniques in the most proficient and educational way thereby allowing the students to gain invaluable knowledge.
Tom CaulfieldCOO, Procurement Integrity Consulting Services
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FAQ

ask us anything

Anderson Investigative Associates (AIA) is a professional training organization specializing in customized, science-based interview and investigative training for organizations across law enforcement, corporate, audit, human resources, and inspection sectors.

AIA offers training in human resources interviewing, investigative interviewing, audit/inspection/evaluation, leadership and communication, trauma-informed interviewing, cognitive interviewing, evidence collection techniques, and more — all customized to client needs.

Science-based interviewing refers to methodologies rooted in cognitive psychology and behavioral science research that improve information accuracy, reduce investigative bias, and enhance the quality of interviews and investigations.

AIA’s training is designed for professionals in law enforcement, auditing, internal investigations, human resources, corporate security, inspection, evaluation, and other roles where effective information gathering and interviewing are critical.

Yes. AIA specializes in fully customized training solutions tailored to an organization’s specific operational requirements, training gaps, culture, and investigative challenges.

Training can be structured in various formats — from one-day workshops to multi-day immersive courses — and includes interactive exercises, realistic scenarios, and hands-on practice.

Some courses include Cognitive Interviewing, Counter-Interrogation Strategies, Science-Based Rapport Building, Strategic Interview Planning, Evidence Disclosure and Strategic Empathy, and Advanced Trauma-Informed Interviewing.

Science-based approaches improve investigative outcomes by maximizing the reliability and accuracy of information obtained, minimizing bias, and creating defensible methods suitable for legal and professional scrutiny.

Yes. AIA provides training tailored to human resources professionals for employee interviews, misconduct investigations, conflict resolution, and documentation practices that align with legal and organizational standards.

You can contact AIA through their website’s Contact page or by calling their office number provided on the site.