We just finished up another Basic FTO Class and wanted to thank the Fife Police Department for their hospitality in hosting this class.
This was a great class with over 17 police agencies and sheriff’s departments represented. We graduated 28 new Field Training Officers that are now ready to train, mentor, coach, and evaluate the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
One of the most beneficial aspects of this course is the students reviewing the past performance of a trainee. Students are presented with a trainee’s performance on a specific incident and then apply all the skills learned during the course. They are able to match that performance to a specific Task Element utilizing the SEGs. Once identified, the students offer remedial training to improve the unacceptable performance observed.
This class really put forth the effort to work through these scenarios evidenced by the fact, in the majority of the incidents, they reached the proper conclusions.
In reviewing the class critiques, we were pleased to know we were able to present our material that many found valuable and will assist them in their new role as a trainer.
Below are but a few of the comments we received. We are truly appreciative of the time students took to let us know how we are presenting our material in such a way as to not only help them become a good FTO, but a great FTO.
- “The instructor was well prepared and presented the class in a way that everyone was able to understand. Great instructor!”
- “The class as whole was very involved, detailed, and encouraging. Your stories implemented a fun and interesting learning environment.”
- “I really enjoyed this class. Sgt. Harris was extremely knowledgeable on the topic. I really enjoyed the workbook we received. I found the DOR Practical extremely relevant and useful. I would highly recommend this class to anyone wishing to become a trainer.”
- “A very engaging class. The personal anecdotes were entertaining and appreciated. I would absolutely sign up for any other class with Sgt. Harris.”
- “The knowledge, experience, and passion exhibited by Sgt. Harris for the proper training of new police officers is exactly what FTOs should be exposed to. Sgt. Harris is relatable, professional and, energizing, leading to the course being easy to follow and promoted a learning environment.”
- “Your passion for this job makes me very excited to not only do my own work but help others who may be struggling. You are a great instructor!”
Lots of other courses coming this year!
As we write this, we have three Basic FTO Classes scheduled. One will be West Monroe, Louisiana in mid-July 2025, and two are scheduled for Everett, Washington (later this March and mid-September).
Lynnwood, WA will be hosting an FTO Refresher Class and a FTO Management Class in September 2025.
Check our website often for class registrations and updates. A list of scheduled field training officer classes can be found here if you’d like to bookmark the page, share it with others, or simply take a look.
*If you want to host a class this year or in 2026, please send me an email at ftoschool@gmail.com or fill out our contact form.*
