Denver RTD Launches New Transit Police Cadet Program for Full-Time Students

Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD) has launched a new Transit Police Cadet Program (RTD-PD) for full-time students in the Denver metropolitan area who want to pursue a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Police cadets will gain exposure to the day-to-day work of an officer in a transit police environment while potentially earning three hours of credit toward most college degrees. Johan Sherpa began work as RTD-PD’s first police cadet on July 22 and is expected to work for the agency for six months or more to complete the program. An Emergency Management Police Cadet role is also available, and the agency is reviewing applications.

RTD Deputy Chief Steven Martingano created the program so students can learn more about the agency and explore public safety.

“The program dedicates time and resources to making sure someone knows what’s in store for them when they’re considering becoming an officer,” Martingano said. “Police work is more of a calling and a passion.”

Sherpa, a senior at the University of Colorado Denver studying criminal justice, learned about the Denver RTD police cadet program from his uncle, who is part of the Golden Police Department. Sherpa said he is looking forward to potentially shadowing or accompanying RTD-PD officers on patrol and advised anyone interested in becoming a police cadet to approach the role with an open mind.

“I want to learn as much as I can and I’m happy to be here,” Sherpa said.

Denver RTD’s cadet program provides specialized training in skills necessary for a career in public safety, including video investigations, integrated security, cybersecurity and police dispatch communications. Police cadets can gain a “head start” on their role as officers.

“If a cadet wants to join our department, they already have the confidence and understanding of what the job involves, which allows them to complete field training quickly,” Martingano said.

Transit Police Detective Job Opportunities

Denver RTD is hiring two detective positions in addition to a police cadet in emergency management. The agency continues to expand its staff to reach at least 96 officers by the end of 2024.

Safety remains our top priority

The agency has undertaken a number of initiatives this year to improve the safety of operators and customers, including increasing the number of officers from 19 in 2022 to 79, establishing 24-hour police patrols on May 5 and launching the Customer Experience Elevator Program at select light rail stations to help prevent unwanted or criminal activity as part of the agency’s Welcoming Transit Environment initiative.