enver, CO – The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is taking significant steps to bolster its law enforcement capabilities and engage the future generation of police officers through a newly established cadet program. This initiative is specifically designed for full-time college students in the metro Denver area who are pursuing degrees in criminal justice or related fields.
The RTD Transit Police cadet program provides a unique opportunity for students to earn three college credits while gaining invaluable insights into the daily operations of transit police officers. The program, which includes an emergency management police cadet track, aims to prepare students for careers in public safety and law enforcement.
Deputy Chief Steven Martingano, who spearheaded the creation of the program, emphasized its importance in helping students understand the realities of police work. “The program dedicates time and resources to make sure someone knows what they’re coming into when considering being an officer,” Martingano stated. “Police work is more of a calling and a passion.”
Cadets will receive training in essential skills such as video investigations, integrated security, cyber security, and police dispatch communications. This training is designed to give participants a competitive edge if they choose to join the RTD police force in the future. “If a cadet wants to join our department, they already have the confidence coming in and understanding of the work to quickly complete field training,” Martingano explained.
Martingano’s personal journey underscores the program’s potential impact. Reflecting on his own experience as a cadet with the New York Police Department, he noted, “Without that year-and-a-half experience, I might never have applied to be an officer.” Initially aiming for a career in accounting, Martingano found his passion in law enforcement, a sentiment he hopes to instill in the cadets.
In addition to the cadet program, RTD is actively hiring for two detective positions as part of its broader strategy to enhance safety and security across its transit system. The agency is working towards a goal of staffing a minimum of 96 officers by the end of the year. Notably, a college degree is not a prerequisite for joining the RTD police, making the field more accessible to aspiring officers.
This year, RTD has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving system safety, including the addition of 60 officers, the establishment of 24/7 police patrolling, and the launch of an “open door” elevator program at select light rail stations designed to deter unwanted or criminal activity.
RTD encourages community involvement in safety efforts, urging customers to partner with the agency by utilizing the Transit Watch app. This app allows users to report suspicious activity discreetly or anonymously and is available in both English and Spanish on iOS and Android platforms.
For those interested in the cadet program or other open roles, RTD invites applications through the Transit Police Careers page. This initiative not only aims to strengthen the police force but also to cultivate a new generation of law enforcement professionals dedicated to serving and protecting the community.