Command Leadership For Field Training Officers In Challenging Times
Course Objective:
The Field Training Officer Program is a nationally recognized system of training that has been adopted by many departments across the country. Order maintenance can no longer be the only function of policing. A variety of community policing skills and preparing for homeland security has to be included in today’s training.
Without question, the Field Training Officer (FTO) is the key component to retaining competent and committed officers. Too often, the Field Training Officer’s value is overlooked in the police organization. Because of their enormous responsibility, senior leadership must begin to take the Field Training Officer Program seriously. It is critical that we put more time in developing our field training officers. Why? Because they are responsible for shaping our future leaders. It is Mike’s hope to share some strategic measures to help bring value back to the most important role in policing, the Field Training Officer.
Mission and Vision Statement: The mission and vision statement is the blueprint for the organization. During this period, we will discuss the importance of knowing your mission and vision statement. It is imperative that each FTO understands the importance of his or her existence in the organization.
Organizational Structure: It is critical that each FTO comprehends his or her value to the future success of the organization. This begins with a keen understanding of his or her role and job function.
Dynamics of Leadership: During the time allotted, we will discuss points to emphasize the role of leadership and innovative theories of understanding people. Because business and people are always evolving, we will focus on the need to improve in the area of emotional intelligence, in addition to leadership ethics.
Dealing with Problem Behavior: Regardless of the extent of pre-screening, there will be a recruit who has not grasped the learning curve. During this session, we will uncover some strategies to understand and enhance adult learning. In addition, we will discuss how different generations bring different ideas and work ethic to the workplace.
Burnout: Training too many recruits in a calendar year can be stressful. During this period, we will reveal ways to prevent burnout.
Risk Management: The Field Training Officer Program traditionally exists largely for the purpose of limiting an agency’s liability due to insufficient or non-existent training. Training must be effective in order to be successful. During this period, we will discuss the effects of inadequate training, in addition to negligent retention. To help prepare for the future, we will discuss relevant case law to reduce our liability risk.
Performance Evaluations: During this time period, we will discuss the importance of documenting performance objectives.
Field Training Operations: During this period, we will discuss the need to infuse community policing problem-solving skills into training. In addition, we will tackle current issues in police operations to help new recruits in responding to calls for service.
Field Training Scenarios: Each FTO must prepare their recruit with potential situations to gauge a response. During this session, we will discuss different scenarios to help improve decision-making.
Homeland Security/Incident Command: Regarding the unsettling world and challenging times in which we live, we must consider homeland security, and prepare local law enforcement professionals for the possibility of a terrorist attack. During this period, we will discuss the officer’s role and the importance of incident command.
Moot Court: During this time period, we will discuss the importance of preparing to testify in court. Too often, many recruits are left to testify without their Field Training Officer.
Final Check Ride: During this time period, we will discuss activities to help prepare the trainee for regular duty assignment.
Upon Completion:
At the end of this training session, the participant will have a working knowledge of how to:
- Deal with problem behavior
- Turn learning goals into actual work situations
- Explain the FTO’s role in policing
- Become a better decision maker
In addition, the participant will become familiarized with:
- Dynamics of Leadership
- Answering calls while training a recruit
- Performance Evaluations
- Risk Management