Field Training Officer

Course Hours: 40.0 Hours

Course Description

The Field Training Officer (FTO) Program is a comprehensive, performance-based training course designed to prepare experienced personnel to effectively train, mentor, evaluate, and develop new employees in real-world operational environments. This program equips participants with the knowledge, instructional strategies, communication skills, and ethical grounding necessary to serve as competent and accountable Field Training Officers. Through interactive instruction, scenario-based learning, and hands-on evaluation practice, participants gain the tools needed to guide trainees toward meeting agency standards and professional expectations.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for this course are: (1) Minimum of three years of public safety experience. (2) Two years of service at the current assigned agency. (3) Students must not be suspended, under investigation by, or on revoked status, with POST Council.

Who Should Attend

This course should be attended by certified law enforcement officers seeking the needed certification to teach newly hired mandated officers. The field training officer will acquire professional instructional skills in accordance with POST Rules, Regulations, and the Peace Officer Reference Text.

Special Notes

Each agency is limited to one applicant per course offering. Applications do not roll over to the next available date. Applicants not accepted must apply for a future course date of their choosing. Training officers, please ensure a current email address is provided for all students registered. Students will receive an email at least one month prior to the start of the class with instructions. Printed materials will not be issued in class and students will be responsible for downloading and printing the materials prior to the beginning of class. Seats are limited, and no walk-ins will be permitted. The program meets the training criteria established by the Georgia POST Council for certification as a Field Training Officer. Students are required to bring a laptop with Microsoft Office 2016 or newer software. The dress code is business attire or a departmental issued uniform. Shorts, jeans and t-shirts are prohibited.

Name Start Date End Date Location Time Course Number Status
Field Training Officer 07/27/2026 07/31/2026 GPSTC, FORSYTH 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. TBA Coming Soon