Monday marked the beginning of the second annual Kentucky State Police Youth Academy Program.
The initiative is intended to introduce teenagers to the foundational principles of law enforcement, and allows them to explore career opportunities in policing while building confidence, leadership and teamwork.
“Building relationships between law enforcement and young Kentuckians is the best way to build trust in law enforcement while recruiting and preparing tomorrow’s brave first responders,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “This program will allow us to continue building that trust, while also creating a safer Kentucky for all our people.”
The immersive, week-long program is held at Trooper Island Camp on Dale Hollow Lake and provides 16- and 17-year-olds with an opportunity to learn directly from state troopers, detectives, instructors and support staff, according to state police. Throughout the week, cadets engage in physical training, classroom instruction and hands-on activities that reflect real-life responsibilities of law enforcement professionals.
“This initiative is more than a summer camp; it is an early step in the recruitment pipeline,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “We want these young men and women to walk away feeling inspired, capable and informed about what it takes to join Kentucky State Police, whether that is a sworn or civilian role.”
During the program, which runs through Friday, participants will engage in activities and instruction, including:
- Exploration of core values and ethics fundamental to law enforcement.
• Team-building exercises to cultivate collaboration and camaraderie.
• Hands-on demonstrations from the KSP Crime Lab to understand forensic techniques.
• Insight into commercial vehicle enforcement procedures and techniques.
• Introduction to criminal investigations and crime scene analysis.
“Watching these teens develop throughout the week is powerful,” Youth Academy Coordinator Scott Ferrell said. “They come in curious and leave with a clearer understanding of themselves, their strengths and the demands of a law enforcement career.”
In 2024, 23 Kentuckians graduated from the Youth Academy Program.
KSP launched the program last year as part of a broader strategy to strengthen recruitment efforts and to deepen community outreach with Kentucky’s youth.
“The agency remains committed to developing initiatives that foster interest in public safety careers and reflect the values of service, community and integrity,” state police said.
For more information about the Youth Academy Program or how to apply for future sessions, visit KSP’s website.
(Photo: 2024 KSP Youth Academy Program graduates, courtesy of Kentucky State Police)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
