The academy, successfully held three times downstate at Monroe Community College, aims to provide selected participants ages 16 to 21 with a comprehensive look at careers in criminal justice.

Alpena’s first time hosting this event was made possible thanks to Alpena Community College and local law enforcement who joined forces to educate the next generation of potential recruits.

The week-long event started with 18 participants, 16 of whom completed the program and graduated with certificates, including one for participation in the state police’s team driving program.

Jukanovich highlighted the camaraderie that developed among participants from diverse regions, from the Upper Peninsula to downstate areas.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

“Seeing them transform from strangers into a cohesive group through team-building exercises and classes was truly rewarding,” Jukanovich said.

Throughout the event, participants engage with professionals from multiple agencies, gaining insights into various facets of law enforcement. They attend classes on criminal law, forensics, evidence collection, and defensive tactics. Additionally, practical sessions such as patrols and first aid are included to provide hands-on experience.

According to Jukanovich, the academy was more than just an introduction to law enforcement as it offered practical exercises and scenarios that allowed participants to apply what they learned throughout the week.

“It was amazing to see how much information they absorbed and how well they performed,” Jukanovich said.

Jukanovich claims that the career academy has great value as a recruiting tool. With several graduates now considering careers in law enforcement, she sees this academy as a promising new avenue for recruitment.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

According to Jukanovich, there are hopes to expand future academies by showcasing additional aspects of law enforcement, such as aviation and marine services. She also aims to improve outreach to attract more participants.

Overall, the first-ever career academy in Alpena was deemed a tremendous success, paving the way for future events both locally and statewide.

Temi Fadayomi can be reached at 989-358-5693 or tfadayomi@thealpenanews.com.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in an event demonstrating training with police dogs during the academy in Alpena.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.

Courtesy Photo Participants in the Michigan State Police Law Enforcement Career Academy partake in different events during the first-ever academy held in Alpena in June.