UCF Police Department Commander Christopher Gavette has completed the FBI National Academy, a 10-week program in Quantico, Virginia, that provides advanced training in communication, leadership, and fitness for law enforcement executives. The academy is known for its competitive selection process, with fewer than 1% of officers nationwide chosen to attend.
Gavette was nominated by UCFPD Deputy Chief Scott Freeman, who is also a graduate of the program. Gavette highlighted the value of the experience, stating, “Everything focuses on personal growth and professional development. The FBI offers academics and coursework, but there’s also a lot of peer-to-peer interaction. By the time you leave, you have a holistic view of best practices from around the world.”
He noted that attending the academy had been a long-term goal since his early days as a corporal at UCFPD. He emphasized both the strengths of the department and opportunities for improvement: “From the first couple of classes, I learned right away that UCFPD does things right. We’re leaps and bounds ahead of other agencies. But it was also helpful to learn what others are doing that we might be able to implement at UCF.”
The program includes dormitory living and intensive training. Gavette said being away from family was difficult but provided insight into wellness and mindfulness in law enforcement. “In almost everything we did, there was a focus on being intentional and positive,” he said. “This job can be challenging, so managing your emotions and understanding how that affects your colleagues, family and personal health is crucial.”
Gavette began working at UCFPD in 2004 as a patrol officer. His roles have included serving as special liaison to the UCF President and as commander of both special operations and special response teams. Before joining UCFPD, he worked for Florida State University Police Department and holds degrees in criminal justice and criminology from FSU.
Now part of the National Academy Associates, Gavette has access to additional training resources and an international network of law enforcement professionals.
He encourages others to consider applying: “I think it’s the best experience you can ever go through as a law enforcement professional,” he said. “When you come back, you’ll be better, and your agency will be better because of it, too.”
