Young trainees in the explorer program got to show off what they’ve learned to other potential youth that want to join. The informational meeting had the young trainees do a search and arrest scenario where they showed off skills taught to them by Lino Lakes officers.
“The program is for kids ages 14-20. It is true that this is for kids that are looking for a career in law enforcement. It’s not just that though, we offer interview help, volunteering experience, and we have a lot of fun,” said Robert Strub, Lino Lakes Public Safety Investigator.
The explorer program was created and is sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America and Learning for Life. The program helps teens get hands-on experience in different fields like law enforcement, fire and rescue, arts, skilled trades, healthcare and many more.
“I’ve always wanted to be a police officer and the explorer program has guided me through that,” said William Sogaard, Lino Lakes Explorer. “Even if you don’t want to be a police officer you can learn and take things from the program. I know my rights better than I did three years ago.”
The program runs all year-long and teens in the program can earn up to six college credits. The search and arrest scenario is just one of many that are taught to the young explorers – they also compete against other departments in annual competitions.
For more information about the explorers program you can check out their website here.
