STC Partners with Sioux Falls Police Department on Career Cadets

The Sioux Falls Police Department (SFPD) has just launched a new workforce development program, Career Cadets. The program seeks to increase access to higher education for those interested in exploring a career in public safety. Career Cadets will join SFPD in a part-time, civilian role, learning more about the field through direct mentorship from law enforcement professionals.

“We are always looking for ways to innovate our approach to recruitment, and Career Cadets is another testament to how we continue to prioritize positive community engagement. No matter where you are in your career or which field of work you are in, if you are committed to being a positive force in our community and ready to become a law enforcement officer, there is a place for you on our team,” said Police Chief Jon Thum.

Through a partnership with Southeast Technical College, cadets who maintain good academic standing will receive a scholarship to cover 12 credit hours at STC. Additional benefits include a laptop from the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and access to childcare and healthcare assistance based on financial eligibility and need.

“As we developed the program, one of our hopes was to further the tradition of community-based policing that has been built in Sioux Falls. Looking back to the beginning of my career, I value the support of mentors who taught me that our mission is to show up for the community each day, no matter what they are going through,” said Lieutenant Robert Forster. “Our team looks forward to meeting and working with the inaugural class of Career Cadets and seeing all they will do to positively impact the community.”

The goal of the program is simple: to ensure that financial circumstances, family commitments, or other barriers do not prevent anyone from a career with the Sioux Falls Police Department.

Learn More

Career Cadets   STC Law Enforcement Science

Media Coverage

• SF Simplified - How Sioux Falls police are leveraging community partnerships to recruit officers
• KELO - A new path for aspiring police officers
• Dakota News Now (Interview) - SFPD Launches Career Cadets Program
• Dakota News Now (News Story) - SFPD launches Career Cadets program