Field Training Officer Certification Course
Wetumpka, AL · Jan 25–29, 2027 · 36 hours · $495.00
Instructor
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Description
This course is designed to equip Field Training Officers (FTOs) with the knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary to develop new officers into professional, ethical, and effective members of their agencies. Based on a modified “San Jose” program, widely adopted across U.S. departments, the course provides practical strategies for on-the-job training while emphasizing professionalism, confidence, and adherence to agency standards.
The mission of the FTO Certification is to recognize public safety practitioners who demonstrate expertise and dedication in field training. A properly functioning FTO program is crucial for reducing liability, ensuring consistent performance, and supporting agency credibility.
Certification is valid for two years. Successful candidates receive a certificate recognizing their status as a Certified Field Training Officer. Candidates must complete both written and practical tests to earn certification. To maintain certification, graduates must attend at least one FTO-related training program during the two-year validity period.
Course Components Include:
Field Training Officer Certification Course
Leadership for the FTO
Supervising and Managing the FTO Program
FTO Refresher
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Discuss the “San Jose” and other FTO program models
Understand differences between lesson plans and check-off lists
Identify the demands placed on FTOs as instructors
List and avoid common errors in performance ratings
Apply adult learning theory to field training
Recognize liability issues related to field training
Conduct performance evaluations effectively
Utilize the rating scale and reference numbers accurately
Complete the Daily Observation Report properly
Counsel and mentor new officers/deputies
Apply problem-solving techniques
The mission of the FTO Certification is to recognize public safety practitioners who demonstrate expertise and dedication in field training. A properly functioning FTO program is crucial for reducing liability, ensuring consistent performance, and supporting agency credibility.
Certification is valid for two years. Successful candidates receive a certificate recognizing their status as a Certified Field Training Officer. Candidates must complete both written and practical tests to earn certification. To maintain certification, graduates must attend at least one FTO-related training program during the two-year validity period.
Course Components Include:
Field Training Officer Certification Course
Leadership for the FTO
Supervising and Managing the FTO Program
FTO Refresher
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Discuss the “San Jose” and other FTO program models
Understand differences between lesson plans and check-off lists
Identify the demands placed on FTOs as instructors
List and avoid common errors in performance ratings
Apply adult learning theory to field training
Recognize liability issues related to field training
Conduct performance evaluations effectively
Utilize the rating scale and reference numbers accurately
Complete the Daily Observation Report properly
Counsel and mentor new officers/deputies
Apply problem-solving techniques
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