New Nebraska State Troopers Start Training

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. – A new class of recruits has begun their training at the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Training Academy in Grand Island. This marks the start of an intense and comprehensive program designed to prepare individuals for a career as state troopers.

“These recruits are embarking on a fulfilling journey to earn their place among the dedicated Nebraska State Troopers working every day to keep Nebraska safe,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The training is difficult by design, but we believe these recruits have the character to take on the challenge and become the troopers Nebraskans deserve to have serving our great state.”

The 13 recruits of Camp 74 come from various communities across Nebraska and Colorado. They include:

• Liberty Baker – Silver Creek
• Alexis Hackbart – Julesburg, CO
• Dylan Hall – Norfolk
• Avery Hayward – Big Springs
• Nathaniel Heins – Central City
• Conner Hendrickson – Waterloo
• Gideon Hill – Omaha
• Ryen House – Scottsbluff
• Ashton Koch – Pierce
• Zachary Olson – Gibbon
• Brendan Owings – Elkhorn
• Gage Schmidt – Columbus
• Jordan Soto-Stopak – Albion

These individuals represent a diverse group of future law enforcement professionals who will undergo rigorous training to develop the skills necessary to serve the public effectively.

Nebraska State Patrol recruits undergo hundreds of hours of classroom instruction and scenario-based training to prepare them to serve as troopers. The curriculum includes subjects such as criminal law, defensive tactics, traffic enforcement, and emergency response procedures. Recruits also participate in physical fitness training and mental resilience exercises to ensure they are ready for the demands of the job.

Camp 74 is scheduled to graduate on December 18, 2026. This date marks the culmination of months of hard work and dedication from the recruits, as well as the support of their families and mentors.

“These recruits have shown their desire to serve others and have earned their spot in the training process,” said Captain Noah McNeese, NSP Director of Training. “Our Training Academy staff will now equip them with the skills they need to serve with honor and integrity.”

The Nebraska State Patrol continues to emphasize the importance of character, discipline, and community service in its training programs. By selecting individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to public safety, the agency ensures that its troopers are well-prepared to protect and serve the people of Nebraska.

As the recruits progress through their training, they will face challenges that test their abilities and reinforce the values essential to law enforcement. The program is designed not only to build technical expertise but also to instill a sense of responsibility and ethical conduct.

For those interested in learning more about the Nebraska State Patrol or the training process, additional information is available through official channels. The agency remains committed to maintaining a high standard of excellence in its mission to safeguard the state and its residents.