So I saw this meme posted on a retired K9 guys FB page. I kind of wrote a lot about it so I might as well post it here too. I think it can generate some good discussion.
I was officially an FTO for 2+ years but I was also the guy my Sergeant sent the OITs to when their trainer was off for a couple years before that.
When I was the unofficial FTO the first thing I told OITs was it’s a fun night. Yeah I’ll grade you but we’re having fun. I still remember the Officer who told me that when I was on FTO myself.
It’s crazy how much pressure and stress OITs have just learning the job. I fully believe in stress inoculation but you reach a point where it’s a diminishing return.
I knew FTOs that flew off the handle and would yell and hit the dashboard. I don’t know how they didn’t stroke out. That was never my style[emoji2371]
The FTO is a trainer and supervisor. Yeah you’re supervising one person but it’s on you. Frankly it’s one of the most important positions in the department. It’s you training people who’ll be there 20+ years hopefully.
It’s sad that FTOs now are likely Officers who have less then 2 years on. An Officer who has less then 2 years on has no business training people. They’re still learning the job. If I was Chief you’d have 3-5 years on.
I think one of the reasons we see a decline in the profession is the lack of experienced Officers who want to do it.
It’s a job that you definitely need to be compensated for doing it. It can be extra pay, good days off etc.
Wow I wrote a lot. I guess the meme touched a nerve. [emoji2371]
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