When Webaza Nicholas walked across the stage to receive his certificate from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission’s (WSCJTC) Corrections Officers Academy (COA), he carried more than just the weight of his training. He carried the journey of survival, perseverance, and purpose.
Born in Uganda, Webaza fled persecution and violence before arriving in the United States as a refugee. After resettling in California, he worked hard to build a new life—learning English, earning multiple college degrees, and dreaming of a career that would allow him to serve others.
“I wanted a job that had direct impact,” he shared. “I want to be the person who shows up in times of crisis.”
Webaza initially enrolled in a prestigious police academy in California, but an injury forced him to withdraw. That setback almost sidelined him from a career in law enforcement. Still, he didn’t give up.
Eventually, the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office saw what others missed—and offered him a chance.
That opportunity brought him to WSCJTC, where he enrolled in the COA program at our Burien campus. Over the course of 10 weeks, Webaza trained alongside fellow recruits, learning the foundations of safety, professionalism, and procedural justice in a corrections setting. He describes the experience as both humbling and empowering.
“Back home, inmates had no rights,” he said. “Here, we’re trained to treat everyone with dignity. That matters.”
COA prepares corrections professionals to handle the challenges of custody and supervision with professionalism and care. Through tactical skills, legal education, and peer collaboration, recruits graduate with a clear understanding of their responsibilities—and the tools to carry them out safely.
For Webaza, COA graduation was more than a milestone. It was proof that second chances are real—and that service can be born from struggle.
“This badge means I can be the role model I never had,” he said. “Not just for the people I serve, but for my family too.”
Webaza’s journey is now part of WSCJTC’s Beyond the Badge series—a program that highlights the personal stories behind the uniforms. His story is a powerful reminder that when we train with compassion and courage, we don’t just shape officers. We shape communities.