Post-academy training

[SeanCasey]

As some of you know I graduated the academy in August and am still working on that "getting hired" bit of business. Anyhow, I want to ensure that I am the most attractive candidate for a position possible and I was curious if anyone here could give suggestions on where to look for additional training while I am between the academy and getting picked up (applying for full-time and reserve positions).

Thanks in advance!

[verapakill]

San Bernardino County just had their test so in a couple months im sure it will open again. I know San Bernardino City is hiring a few guys but not sure the testing dates. Chino City is looking for full-time and reserve and their applications are always open. I just heard that Hemet PD is looking to hire something like 10 people. The only other I have heard about is Beaumont PD and Palm Springs PD but I dont have any info on them.

One of the biggest things I was told when applying was be ready to move. If you get a job take it. You can always lateral to somewhere that you want later in life.

[AdidasCJ]

I would suggest staying fresh on things you learned in the academy, so you dont become "rusty" at it. Other then that what down the line do you wanna do? Drug, Gang enforcement, etc. and start looking into classes related to what you wanna do down the road. Gather information and do some self education. But first and foremost stay fresh on what will get you hired and learned.

[retired]

As some of you know I graduated the academy in August and am still working on that "getting hired" bit of business. Anyhow, I want to ensure that I am the most attractive candidate for a position possible and I was curious if anyone here could give suggestions on where to look for additional training while I am between the academy and getting picked up (applying for full-time and reserve positions).

Thanks in advance!

Knowing you Sean, I think you won't have any problem in the bolded area. I joke, I joke.

I know you have applied to various depts. and I'm sure one will come thru. You also probably know if you are hired by my former dept., you will have to go thru their academy, but at least you are paid while doing so. If you are hired by them or another agency requiring their academy, at least you will be a step up on the others as far as what the D.I.s do and expect of you.

You should, of course, continue with your physical regimen to remain in excellent shape. Go on ride alongs for all of the depts. you have applied for if they allow it also.

As far as actual training classes, if there was anything in the academy that gave you a problem, you might consider taking a class to improve that area. Based on a prior face to face conversation, I pretty much know where you were in the class when you graduated, so I don't think English or writing is a problem for you.

You might check out your local Community college to see if they offer any classes that could help. In fact, check the academy you attended and ascertain if they have any AOT classes you can take.

There are also private instructors, but you would need to do a lot of research on them to ensure you are getting qualified instructors who know what they are doing.

Good luck Sean. Contact me if you need anything.

[9mmepiphany]

You might consider picking up some fluency in a second or third language. Between two equal candidates, one possessing additional language skills might be the deciding factor

[Samuelx]

SC, have you applied with LASD? At the moment, we are rolling classes (plural) through again and you may or may not have to go through our full academy (contact the pre-employment unit to confirm).

Definitely agree with 9mm - fluency in a second or third language will be EXTREMELY useful in the field (even if it does or doesn't help you get hired). Staying current on commonly used penal/vehicle codes, search/seizure case laws, etc would be good. Maintaining fitness, training in some DT/MA/MMA, etc will be beneficial too.

Unfortunately, some training classes/courses out there may not be available to you until you are officially sworn/hired...

[SFFRONTMAN]

If you have the time I would look at obtaining the EMT basic certification. It is usually a one semester community college class. Anything that sets you apart from other candidates I think could only help.

[BigDogatPlay]

You might consider picking up some fluency in a second or third language. Between two equal candidates, one possessing additional language skills might be the deciding factor

^^^ This ^^^

A second language is always a plus, and can be done in a variety of ways.

[mixicus]

Stay in shape; both strength and cardio. Some dept will have you do a PAT during the hiring process. This is important in you job performance, dealing with stress and lifetime health.

Take up some practical martial art like Krav Maga, BJJ, muay thai, etc (you've seen all the threads on this).

Keep you firearms skills sharp. You can do this via some IDPA or USPSA matches. Between Raahague's and Prado there are probably 6 or 8 matches each month for ~$30/each right outside your front door.

I mention these items first because they are hard to quantify on your application but are perishable and critical.

As for LE classes, if you don't have a degree yet, finish an AA in AJ or CJ. With your academy credits you are probably halfway there. RCC, GWC and Santa Ana College have programs tailored to academy grads getting there AA.

Any LE classes you can take at the community college will likely help. Just make sure to articulate that you are doing it to stay on-top or expand the subject matter you learned in the academy.

Check out some of the groups that sponsor POST certified and other trainings. Look at the sheriff department's training sites, CNOA and LAHIDTA as some starting points. Be prepared that some classes may not be available to you unless you are employed at an agency. The short classes on 'search and seizure' or the ones (Fraud, Elder Abuse, Child Abuse, Death Investigation...) that end in "...For Patrol" are good choices.

[retired]

The EMT suggestion was a good one by the way. When I was a sgt., one of the deputies who had gone to patrol, left and went to the DA Investigator's office and then returned, obtained one on his own time while working custody.

He went back to patrol after a year and I heard he was working as a DI within about 5yrs. after I retired.