It’s no secret that police departments across the nation have struggled to recruit and retain peace officers in recent years. Austin Community College District Police Department (ACCDPD) Chief Lynn Dixon is trying a novel approach to solve the problem: growing his own officers.

Beginning the week of September 3, the department will accept applications for a new program that offers ACC employees a fast-track entrance into the field of law enforcement. 

“At ACC, this job is more about customer service than it is law enforcement,” says Chief Dixon. “We love engaging with students and employees, and I think the feeling is mutual. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who wants to grow their career at ACC.”

Here’s how the new program, casually known as Bats to Badges, works:

  1. Interested employees can apply for the program beginning September 3, 2024. 
  2. Candidates will be interviewed and will go through standard background checks conducted by the College and Police Department. 
  3. Applicants who are accepted will be enrolled in an approved Basic Peace Officer Academy.
  4. Upon successfully completing the academy, cadets will take the state licensing exam.
  5. Upon earning their license, cadets are commissioned by Chief Dixon and will begin working full-time as officers of the ACC District Police Department.

All active ACC employees including staff, faculty, adjunct, and hourly employees are eligible to apply for the program. The cost of the academy is fully funded by the College. During the training period, cadets will receive up to 75% of the salary paid to entry-level officers, with the minimum being $47,840. Once they are commissioned officers, cadets will be paid 100% of pay grade 121, or $56,919, for FY25. In return for their training, cadets will commit to serving at least two years as a full-time officer with the ACC Police Department. 

The new program is a collaboration between ACCDPD leadership and Human Resources, led by HR Business Partner Donald Jackson. 

“This is a good example of how connecting a Business Partner with departments across ACC can solve people problems together,” says HR Vice Chancellor Kelly Torrico.

For more information and details on how to apply, visit the ACCDPD website. To start your application, visit Workday.