RPD: Field Training Program

One of the most important steps in becoming an officer in the Rochester Police Department (RPD) is transitioning from the police academy and applying your knowledge to patrol duties in the "real, outside world.” 

After successful completion of the police academy, you will be assigned to experienced Field Training Officers (FTOs) for training in the Field Training and Evaluation Program. The Field Training Program lasts about 12 weeks and is designed to help recruits apply basic knowledge learned in the police academy to "real life" situations. 

Field Training Officers are selected based on their knowledge, interpersonal skills and desire to train rookie officers. FTOs evaluate probationary officers in several areas, including Departmental/Law knowledge, police radio use, driving, research skills, conflict control, field performance, report writing, relationships with others, personal appearance and demeanor.

For many new officers, field training is an opportunity to learn from the overall experiences of veteran officers. This allows newer officers to gain their own experience under the direction of senior officers.  

After successful completion of the Field Training Program, you are officially certified as a Police Officer and assigned to a Patrol Section as a RPD patrol officer.