Field Training Officer
A police Field Training Officer (FTO) is a veteran patrol officer designated to guide new recruits through their critical on-the-job training phase. FTOs deliver hands-on instruction in department procedures, community-oriented policing, report writing, radio communications, emergency response tactics and ethical decision-making. Through daily evaluations and structured feedback, FTOs ensure each recruit meets rigorous performance standards before solo patrol. Access the latest Police1 news, videos and resources on the important role of the FTO.
When these four pillars are missing, training breaks down — here’s how strong FTOs get it right
From hypervigilance to emotional flattening, new officers may show early stress responses that are easy to overlook
Meet Joe Cirrito, a 22-year veteran Los Angeles Police Department officer, whose daily rituals and unwavering purpose now shape the next generation of LAPD recruits
Strategies to leverage how new recruits best learn and respond to training
Hiring a lateral officer can be a great experience for all concerned, but the new agency still has an obligation to ensure the new hire is everything they expect
Officers pose for a group photo while working the night shift in downtown Garden City, Kansas
The FTO is one of the most important roles in any agency. So don’t forget these essentials
One of the most overlooked aspects when it comes to law enforcement culture is how officers are trained within the organization
Law enforcement leaders prepare because the pendulum is finally swinging back in favor of public safety
A field training officer helps a recent graduate of the Wisconsin State Patrol get organized
‘Everything was going along swimmingly. Right up until he accidentally shot himself on duty as I stood directly next to him.’
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