Steven C. McCraw - Director/Colonel | Department of Public Safety webside
Steven C. McCraw - Director/Colonel | Department of Public Safety webside
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has officially welcomed 130 new Troopers to the Texas Highway Patrol. The graduation ceremony for recruit Class B-2024 took place at Shoreline Church in Austin, attended by DPS personnel and members of the Public Safety Commission, including Chairman Steven P. Mach and Commissioners Nelda Blair, Dan Hord III, Larry Long, and Steve Stodghill.
Chairman Mach acknowledged the dedication of the new recruits, stating: “Recruit graduations are incredibly special for members of the Texas Department of Public Safety, and it is an honor to recognize the outstanding commitment, dedication and drive of these incoming Texas State Troopers. The future of public safety is brighter because of these men and women.”
Commissioner Long delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of their training: “The last 30 weeks, your training officers have provided you with the skills you need,” he said. “Your classmates have given you the support you need. Now it’s up to you to take all of that and embark on this next phase as you join the ranks of the Texas Tan.”
This marks DPS's 176th recruit class since its inception. Out of 1,760 applicants for Class B-2024, only 164 were initially selected to begin training on May 20. Ultimately, 130 successfully completed the rigorous 30-week academy.
Colonel Martin praised their progress: “For those of us who have been watching Class B-2024 over the last 30 weeks, we’ve seen how far you’ve come,” he noted. “We’ve seen your grit, your determination; we’ve seen your mental and physical toughness; and we’ve seen you come together as a group.”
The trainees underwent extensive instruction exceeding mandatory licensing requirements set by TCOLE. They received over 1,200 hours covering various topics such as law enforcement techniques, crisis intervention strategies, fitness programs, emergency medical assistance skills including Tactical Emergency Casualty Care training.
Trooper Trainees concluded their program with a Joint Field Training Exercise simulating real-life scenarios they might encounter on duty.
These newly commissioned Troopers will report to their respective duty stations across Texas starting January 5.
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