CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — This spring, 11 cadets joined the Basic Peace Officer Academy run by Pickaway-Ross Adult Education in partnership with Ohio University Chillicothe. The academy, which graduated its first class of six cadets in December, aims to prepare individuals for certification and employment as peace officers in Ohio.
The cadets, hailing from various counties in south-central Ohio, bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to the program. All share a common goal of contributing to and making a difference in their communities.
Terri Mikesh, a seasoned instructor with over 20 years of service in the Ohio State Highway Patrol and nearly two decades of teaching experience at Ohio University Chillicothe, leads the academy. “Our program is designed to equip these future peace officers with the skills, knowledge, and integrity required to serve and protect our communities with excellence,” Mikesh stated.
Among the cadets is Chris Green Jr., inspired by a transformative ride-along experience in Georgia to pursue a career in law enforcement. Currently a corrections officer at the Pickaway County Jail, Green aspires to become a canine officer and a role model in his hometown of Obetz, Ohio.
Brayden Woodbridge, motivated by his uncle’s career in law enforcement, began his journey in high school through SkillsUSA and later studied at Hocking College. Now part of the Basic Peace Officer Academy, he volunteers with the Green Township Fire Department and aims to work in narcotics after graduation to address drug problems in Chillicothe and Ross County.
Taylor Jackson, who has wanted to be a police officer since she was 15, currently works as a juvenile detention officer. Despite setting aside her dream temporarily after becoming a mother, she has now returned to pursue her goal, inspired by a friend’s encouragement. Jackson hopes to become a detective, focusing on crimes against children and sex crimes, with her ultimate ambition being to serve as a U.S. Marshal.
The cadets face the challenge of balancing classes, full-time jobs, and family obligations. Green and Jackson both highlight the support from their families, instructors, and employers as crucial in managing their responsibilities. Jackson expressed her dedication to providing a better life for her daughter and being a strong role model.
The academy fosters a close-knit community among the cadets. “We’re really getting to become a family,” Jackson noted, with Mikesh praising the supportive and encouraging environment of the class. Green and Woodbridge both appreciate the instructors’ dedication and expertise, which significantly enhance their learning experience.
The collaboration between Pickaway-Ross Adult Education and Ohio University Chillicothe has been successful in delivering top-notch training. Cadets attend classes five evenings a week as part of the 820-hour program, with most training taking place on the university campus and additional physical training at local high school tracks and driving practice at Pickaway-Ross Career and Technical Center.
“We are proud to partner with Pickaway-Ross Adult Education to offer this much-needed and high-quality program,” said Roberta Milliken, Dean of Campus and Community Relations at Ohio University Chillicothe. “The cadets have chosen a noble career path, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments when they graduate from the academy later this year.”