The pennington county sheriff's office (pcso) will use FY23 microgrant to implement the national fraternal order of police apprenticeship initiative

The national FOP has been working with the US department of labor to formulate an effective apprenticeship program that can be customized to meet local demands and be utilized as a template for a national initiative. The intent of this partnership is to establish an industry led program that aligns with nationally recognized standards already established in the law enforcement profession. Pcso will provide entry level wages that will increase as an apprentice's knowledge, skills, and abilities progress. Pcso will provide structured on the job learning opportunities along with mentorship to a diverse pool of potential apprentices. As part of the on-the-job training regimen, the pcso will provide the participant multiple opportunities to learn about multiple employment opportunities within the pcso. The pennington county sheriffs office goal for the apprenticeship program is to develop a recruitment pipeline and pathway to employment within law enforcement and corrections by working with the national FOP to create a registered paid apprenticeship program with the intent to bridge the GAP between high school graduation and employment as a correctional officer or law enforcement officer.