Emblem

FTO Training

There is nothing more important than training our future!

Welcome to FTO Training

The mission of standards and training is to enhance the professionalism of public safety in serving the community. The Field Training Program supports this mission by supervising, training, and evaluating new employees.

Field Training Officers commit to a philosophy of teaching—ensuring proper training until external factors account for any performance issues.

  • 2000 – Field Training Officer School
  • 2010 – FTO Manager
  • 2016 – FTO Coordinator
  • 2017 – FTO Advanced Training Course
  • 2017 – Kaminsky FTO Supervisor School
  • 2017 – Managing the Patrol FTO Program (IPTM)
  • 2017 – Think Clear for the FTO Course
  • 2017 – The Ultimate Training Officer Course
  • 2018 – Supervising and Managing the FTO Unit (PATC)
  • 2018 – The Transformational Trainer
  • 2018 – Master FTO – National Association of Field Training Officers
  • 2018 – Master Instructor – Indiana Law Enforcement Academy
  • 2019 – FTO Process and Best Practices, Dolan Consulting Group
  • 2021 – FTO Beyond Basics – NA FTO
  • 2022 – NAFTO FTO Conference (Louisville, KY)
  • 2023 – Southeastern FTO Conference (Fort Walton Beach, FL)

FTO School Objectives

Our comprehensive FTO training covers:

Schedule

  • Lawrence, IN – February 26-28, 2025
  • South Bend, IN – May 14-16, 2025
  • Lafayette, IN – July 7-9, 2025

About Me

Sgt. Stephen M. Kleeman is a dedicated law enforcement professional whose career spans from military police service to advanced field training. His experience as an instructor and mentor has shaped a robust training program for future officers.

The Instructor

Beginning his career in 1991, Sgt. Kleeman advanced rapidly – serving as a Motor Patrol FTO, earning FTO of the Year honors, and later managing and coordinating advanced training programs.

About the FTO Program

This program consolidates best practices from various training protocols and is designed to be defensible, effective, and adaptable to any agency’s needs.

  • Defensible/Fair – Comprehensive selection and standardized evaluation
  • Effective/Manageable – Performance-based with detailed documentation
  • Adaptable/Flexible – Customizable for agency-specific policies
National Association of Field Training Officers

Commonly known as the “Field Training Officer Concept,” this apprenticeship model extends to law enforcement, communications, corrections, and more.

FAQ

A: The cost is $400 per student.

A: The basic FTO School is three days long.

A: Although multiple systems are discussed, the course is geared toward the San Jose model.

A: A classroom for 20–30 students with a computer, projector, and speakers.

A: Yes – a minimum of 15 students is required.

A: Yes, the hosting agency is given a free slot for hosting the class.

A: Each student receives an FTO book and a certificate of completion.

A: No prerequisites are required.

A: No – the course is also available to correction officers, dispatchers, firefighters, security personnel, and EMT/paramedics.

Registration and Contact

For further questions or registration, please contact:

Phone: (812) 457-1597

Email: skleeman@evansvillepolice.com