March 2025 Edition
By Monica Alexander, Executive Director, WSCJTC
Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/bcq0pDg7QdI
March is a month of momentum. From the opening of our newest regional academy in Arlington to the potential impact of Senate Bill 5060, we continue to drive forward in building a stronger, more resilient law enforcement community in Washington State.
A Milestone for Regional Training: The Arlington Academy
I’m thrilled to share that a couple of years planning, we are finally opening our regional training academy in Arlington. This marks the final addition to our regional academy system, following Pasco, and Vancouver.
On March 20, Governor Ferguson will join us for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate this milestone. Then, on March 24, the first class of Arlington recruits will walk through the doors, beginning their journey toward serving Washington communities.
The launch of this academy reflects the tremendous effort of so many individuals, including Assistant Commander Tim Morgan (compliments of Everett Police Department), who has gone above and beyond—literally earning his forklift license—to make this happen. Arlington is more than just a location; it represents the commitment of WSCJTC to meeting agencies and communities where they are and ensuring training accessibility across the state.
Clearing the Backlog: A New Era for Recruitment
For some time, agencies across Washington faced 8 to 12-month waitlists for basic training. Today, that wait time is zero. We’ve eliminated the backlog, which means agencies can hire and send recruits into training immediately.
Senate Bill 5060 can potentially supercharge hiring efforts by providing agencies with critical funding to expand recruitment. If passed, this bill could usher in a wave of new officers—benefiting both large agencies like Seattle PD, which is working to fill vacancies, and smaller departments that are finally seeing staffing levels stabilize.
For the first time in a long time, we’re in a position where we’re ready for them—our academies in Pasco, Spokane, Vancouver, Arlington, and Burien are prepared to train as many recruits as agencies can bring in. This is a moment we’ve worked hard to achieve, and I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made.
Women’s History Month: Why Representation Matters in Law Enforcement
March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the incredible contributions women have made—and continue to make—to law enforcement.
Throughout my career, I’ve often been asked, “Why does it matter?” when discussing the need for more women in policing. My answer is simple: Representation matters. Our communities are made up of men, women, parents, mentors, and leaders from all walks of life—and law enforcement should reflect that diversity.
When I joined the Washington State Patrol, few women were in the profession. The informal mentorship made a difference—women supporting one another, sharing experiences, and helping each other navigate challenges. That’s the power of representation.
I want to see more women enter this profession—not just because it’s important for diversity but because it’s an incredible career. Law enforcement is accommodating, exciting, and rewarding. I entered this field as a single mom, and my son grew up watching my career unfold. Today, he is a police officer himself—a full-circle moment that fills me with pride.
To all the women considering a career in law enforcement: We need you. Your perspective, leadership, and service make our profession stronger.
Looking Ahead
As we move through March, we have so much to be proud of—and even more to look forward to. Our academies are expanding training opportunities, our hiring landscape is improving, and our profession is becoming more diverse and reflective of the communities we serve.
This is progress in action. Let’s keep moving forward together.
Monica Alexander
Executive Director, WSCJTC
