FTO program gives cadets a leg up at academy

Sheridan Police Chief Travis Koltiska and Captain Tom Ringley spoke on training during an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse. 

At times, when an officer is hired, the right fit for the position may be an individual with prior experience in law enforcement. Having served in another city or county, they have received the proper training at various law enforcement academies. 

But in other cases, such as the case with Chief Koltiska himself when he initially joined the force decades ago, the right person for the job had no prior training in law enforcement. 

When an applicant is hired without prior training, one of the first steps is to schedule them into the next Peace Officer Basic Course at the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy (WLEA). According to the Academy, it’s here students are taught and evaluated on curriculum established and certified by WLEA and Wyoming Peace Officer Standards and Training (WY POST). 

But these courses are on a set schedule and at times cadets have to wait until a rotation begins. It’s during these times that the SPD begins training prior to sending new officers to the academy. 

Chief T. Koltiska 

Captain Ringley had prior military training, but says that type of training is very different from that of law enforcement. He told listeners that he would have liked having some field training prior to attending the academy. 

Capt. T. Ringley 

According to the Captain, the overall intent of the FTO program is to provide a strong base for newly hired trainees in the department to build their skill levels so they may provide the best possible service to the citizens of Sheridan.

Learn more about the SPD and possible open positions by clicking here.