Editor’s note: EPPD Captain Chris Wood was selected to participate in the FBI’s National Academy, a law enforcement executive leadership course, which runs from late March - June 2024.

On March 30, 2024, I began training at the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. I am training with 201 students who are some of the top leaders from agencies in 32 different countries.

The National Academy is 10 weeks long. Courses include Leadership, Behavioral Science, Critical Decision Making, Officer Wellness and many more. The program also includes a physical training component. One of the most important aspects of the training has been interacting and learning from my classmates.

This week is National Police Week and being in the Washington D.C. area has afforded me some great opportunities. 

On Monday night our class attended the Law Enforcement Memorial Candlelight Vigil. We were there with thousands of law enforcement officers from around the country to honor officers killed in the line of duty. Once the candles were lit, it was a very impressive sight.

On Tuesday, our class was given the opportunity to host a C.O.P.S (Concerns of Police Survivors) kids/teens event. About 100 kids and teens who have lost a parent or sibling in the line of duty spent the day with us at the Academy. They attended counseling sessions and a carnival we hosted. It was a very humbling experience.

The training will continue through June 6. It has been a great opportunity to improve my leadership skills as well as learn about some things that I will be able to bring back to the Eden Prairie Police Department.

Submitted by Captain Chris Wood