Located at the Eastern Florida State College Public Safety Institute, the Law Enforcement Academy is a cornerstone of workforce development for Brevard County and beyond. More than just a training facility, the Academy is where cadets transform into officers ready to protect, serve, and lead with integrity.
“The Law Enforcement Academy’s goal isn’t just to teach future officers the basics of the law,” said Chief John Lau of the Titusville Police Department. “It’s about instilling the values and leadership skills that define great law enforcement professionals.”
That philosophy echoes throughout the Academy. Instructors foster high expectations, personalized support, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
“The Academy’s success is evident in the numbers,” said College President Dr. Jim Richey. “The most recent graduating class of 37 students achieved a 100% pass rate on the Florida State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE), with an average GPA of over 92%. These outcomes are a testament to the Academy’s rigorous 770-hour curriculum and its exceptional instructors.”
Empowering the Local Workforce
The Academy not only produces certified officers but also serves as a catalyst for strengthening the local workforce. Law enforcement agencies across Florida look to EFSC for well-prepared recruits ready to step into essential public safety roles.
“I’m really impressed by the instructors,” shared Samantha Harris, a current Academy student training to become a Deputy. “They’re all former law enforcement. They bring so many different perspectives and real-world experiences that you can’t get from just reading a book. That experience is invaluable.”
Matt Jankowski, a current instructor and Public Safety Coordinator, emphasized the importance of understanding both the law and effective communication.
“They must know the laws they’ll be enforcing. After that, report writing is critical because it’s the foundation of the criminal justice process,” Jankowski explained. “As much as we love range time and driving courses, the reality is that strong reports are how we ensure justice is carried out.”
The Academy’s commitment to superior hands-on training also sets it apart.
“Our instructors don’t just train officers — they shape leaders,” added Police Chief David Gillespie. “Their personal investment in every cadet sets our program apart.”
“We give students as much trigger time as possible — about 79 hours on the range,” Jankowski said. “They shoot thousands of rounds, and it really shows in their competency. I’ve heard from students at other academies that they didn’t get nearly the same amount of range time. Here, students really get the experience they need.”
Curriculum Tailored for Success
The Academy offers multiple pathways to certification, including the popular Florida Law Enforcement Academy Career and Technical Certificate (CTC), preparing students for the SOCE through an intensive and structured curriculum. For eligible U.S. military veterans, the Academy provides an accelerated 490-hour program that honors their service while streamlining their path to law enforcement certification.
Additionally, the Auxiliary Law Enforcement Officer CTC — consisting of 360 clock hours — prepares graduates to serve in supportive law enforcement roles across the state.
Each program is built to the high standards of the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Training is conducted on EFSC’s Melbourne Campus, with both day and evening schedules available. This accommodates a range of students, including working adults and career changers.
Trace Markle, a current cadet planning to work for the Melbourne Police Department after graduation, has had a positive experience with the Academy that goes beyond traditional learning.
“My self-confidence has skyrocketed,” said Markle. “I broke through walls I didn’t even realize I had. I’m doing things that I never imagined I’d be capable of like shooting and defensive tactics.”
Samantha Harris noted the personal growth that comes with stepping outside of her comfort zone. “Coming out here has helped me get around different personalities again, talk to people, and grow personally after years of being more introverted post-military service.”
Brevard Police Testing & Selection Center
Every candidate’s journey begins with the Brevard Police Testing & Selection Center (BPTC), located at the Public Safety Institute. Established in 1987 by the Florida Legislature, the BPTC plays a critical role in screening and vetting applicants through rigorous assessments, including the Criminal Justice Basic Abilities Test (CJBAT), the Physical Abilities Test (PAT), and an in-depth background check.
Applicants must meet the state’s minimum standards, including age, education, and legal qualifications as defined by Florida Statute 943.13. Veterans with an honorable discharge or individuals with an associate degree may be eligible for CJBAT exemptions.
Looking Ahead
EFSC’s Law Enforcement Academy continues to open doors for aspiring officers from all walks of life. Whether entering from military service, changing careers, or starting fresh, every cadet is supported in becoming a confident and capable guardian of public safety.
“This is the best profession in the world,” Jankowski said. “I loved it for 30 years. I’m so dedicated to it that I decided to give more time to training the next generation.”
EFSC’s Law Enforcement Academy isn’t just a training ground. It’s a launchpad for a new generation of officers to make a difference, one shift and life at a time.
