Field Training & Evaluation Program

The transition from the police academy to the “real” world is a critical step in the development of law enforcement officers. The field training program is the essential link in that officer development. Field Training Program options include the traditional San Jose model; the problem solving oriented Police Training Officer Reno model; and the Proficiency field training model. The Field Training and Evaluation Program does not advocate any particular model. Instead it incorporates the best of all models in a manner that is realistic and applicable to the current environment.

This program will highlight the concepts and philosophies that emphasize the “training” role of an FTO. It is the goal of this program to inform students of the skills, knowledge and abilities that are needed to become an FTO. Initially, the program examines the roles of the field training officer – specifically, the fact that the field training officer functions as the “supervisor” of a field trainee. The program also focuses on the fact that an FTO needs to possess and demonstrate skills in leadership and delegation. Additional components of the program instruct to the following:

• Fundamentals of effective communication;
• Counseling;
• The various roles of an FTO, including the FTO as a trainer;
• Challenges facing the FTO;
• Training liability and legal issues;
• COMAR Field Training Requirements
• Ethics and Integrity
• Adult Learning
• Emotional Intelligence
• Diversity and Generational Differences

The program is a combination of classroom instructor and practical application. During the daily practical applications, students will
• Apply leadership traits and principles to an FTEP Program / training situation;
• Introduce trainee to FTEP expectations and standards;
• Rehearse counseling skills;
• Prepare a remedial training plan for a specific problem; and,
• Review evaluation instruments.

If the class is full and you want to be placed on a waiting list please contact Katie.Johnson@maryland.gov

Agencies holding a TBD seat must update the information one month ahead if there is a waitlist, and two weeks ahead if not. Thank you!

Location: PSETC Sykesville
Dates of Class: 10/14/2025 - 10/16/2025
Approval Number: Pending
Approved Hours: 21
Price: 75.00

8:30am - 4:30pm
$75 for client agencies (DPSCS=no cost) / $125 for non-client agencies.