MTI Law Enforcement Academy 2014 Graduation

The Manatee Technical Institute Law Enforcement Academy graduated nine basic recruits last night. The graduates were Tyler J. Ackerman (class leader), Michael W. Fisher, Jr., Justin M. Garza, Robert J. Gwodz, Taylor M. Ledford, Nico S. Lee, Bertin D. Mewshaw, Jonathan E. Mizner (assistant class leader), and Christian D. Murphy.

Mizner earned the Highest Academic Achievement award with an average of 98.6 percent. Public service coordinator Leslie Chevalier announced that Mizner had just passed the state certification exam with 96 percent. Mizner also earned the Top Gun award. Fisher won the “Dale Earnhardt, Jr.” Best Driver Award.  Ackerman presented Academy Director Jay Romine with the class plaque.

Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube addressed the class.  In addition to advising them to set career goals and continue their education, the Sheriff impressed upon the graduates that their integrity was their destiny; he instructed them to “serve the public with respect, compassion and empathy,” and he counseled them to put God and family before themselves and their careers.

Palmetto Police Chief Rick Wells gave the invocation and benediction.  MTI and Adult, Career and Technical Education Director Doug Wagner gave the opening remarks, thanking the students for choosing MTI and their families for supporting them during their time in school.

Also in attendance were Bradenton Police Chief Michael Radzilowski, Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer, MCSO Director Billy Duckett, Florida State Trooper Kenn Watson, and Manatee School Board Member Barbara Harvey .

Director Romine acknowledged his secretary, Sharon Niel, for being at the graduation.  This class was the last class she served before retiring in June after almost 10 years of service at MTI.  He also acknowledged Academy instructor, Randy Petroskey.

Successful completion of the Law Enforcement Academy at MTI makes one eligible to take the State Certification Examination for Law Enforcement, the required test to become a Certified Law Enforcement Officer in the State of Florida.  For more information on the MTI Law Enforcement Academy, please contact Director Romine at rominej@manateeschools.net.