On April 21, 2025, a new chapter began for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) as it launched the new and improved First-Line Supervisor Training Program (FLSTP). This initiative, part of FLETC’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Strategic Priorities, marks a significant milestone in its commitment to developing leaders for the future.
The journey began with informal and formal discussions with FLETC’s workforce about what leadership programs worked and what didn’t work. On March 3, 2025, Director Huffman approved the new FLSTP, which was jointly developed by the FLETC Leadership Institute (FLI) and the Human Capital Office (HCO). This mandatory 10-day training program was designed for all FLETC first-line supervisors who have entered their positions within the last two years, dating back to October 1, 2022. Nearly two weeks ago, Acting Director Paul Baker welcomed 15 supervisors, setting the stage for an intensive and enriching experience.
The curriculum was meticulously crafted and led by Chief Robert E. Ray, FLI, and Branch Chief Brenda Lloyd, HCO. The new curriculum equips supervisors with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles and support their teams. The program covered a wide range of topics, including:
- DISC Behavioral Diagnosis; Theories of Leadership; Belief Systems and Motivators
- Public Speaking and Presentations
- Managing Employee Performance and Conduct
- Employment Law Pitfalls and Problem-Solving
- Wellness
- Leadership Concepts
- Overview of Recruitment and Staffing
- Ethics
- Leading Change
- Conflict Management for Supervisors
- Crisis Leadership
- EEO Complaint Process and Scenarios
- Reasonable Accommodations and Scenarios
A significant change to the program was the inclusion of mentors for the entire two weeks. Deputy Assistant Director (DAD) Kelly Dixon, DAD Shawn Beltramo and Budget Officer Sheronda DeRohn served as mentors for the first of many FLSTP sessions.
One of the many highlights of the program was the students’ 10-minute presentations about their leadership journey. They each presented in front of the class, and it was evident that the strangers who started on day one were now a part of a FLETC family.
In just two weeks of training, they learned together, laughed together, and even showed their emotional side. Several comments confirmed the melding of personalities and backgrounds. One student stated, “Congratulations to whoever designed this format of training because it worked.” Another stated, “We are a cadre of supervisors who can rely on each other. I feel very comfortable picking up the phone and talking to anyone in this class to include our mentors.”
The students appreciated access to four senior executive leaders during the executive panel session. Acting Deputy Director Ariana Roddini, Assistant Director (AD) Diane Witte, Chief Financial Officer/AD Kathleen Olsen and AD Mark Adamchik discussed their leadership experiences, provided leadership advice, answered questions, and asked questions of the students such as, “What was the most impactful experience of the program?” The students’ most common responses were self-awareness, personal relationships/networking, great mentors, and new tools gained for helping others.
Acting Director Baker concluded the graduation ceremony by thanking the FLETC staff that made the program possible and communicating to the graduates that they are the top 10% of FLETC organization. “You own the climate in your areas of responsibilities.” said Acting Director Baker. He then challenged them by saying “What are you going to do with the training you received? Be an agent for positive change!”
Congratulations to all the graduates of the first FLSTP cohort! Their commitment to personal and professional growth is commendable, they are now better equipped to lead with integrity and excellence. FLETC looks forward to seeing the positive impact these supervisors and future graduates will have with their workforce and the organization.
###
Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
Office of Public Affairs
Contact: 912-267-2447