Sacramento Lieutenant Jackie Long Traded A Badge For The Classroom
With a law enforcement career that led him from a reserve officer to a state narcotics agent, Jackie Long's focus is on specialized training to recognize drug activity. Along the way, however, he became a techie. Powerpoint, Keynote, Poser 3D modeling and E-magazine programs are a few of his favorite tools.
Now that he has retired after 32 years, he isn't spending his days on a golf course or cruising Gold Country antiques. He has begun a second career as an educator, directing criminal justice programs for Carrington College.
How did your career in higher education begin?
"In August 2011, I retired from a 32-year career in law enforcement. One of my duties consisted of instructing law enforcement agencies across the United States. My law enforcement career was split between enforcement actions, commanding drug task forces and instructing adult learners."
Which part of your job brings you the most personal satisfaction?
"I enjoy the challenge of developing daily 'Roll Call' trainings where I play law enforcement officer survival videos for students to discuss. Most of all, I enjoy the interaction with my students."
Do you have any advice for educators in the career college sector?
"My advice for fellow educators is to keep focusing on enriching the learning experience for students while providing strategic guidance and support on how to apply new skills to the career they want to build."
Why is professional development and continuing education important to you?
"Professional development is key to the success of any institution or educator. Technology and instructional techniques are constantly evolving. I am very appreciative of Carrington's dedication to professional development."
Name one way you think career education leaders can improve institutional performance.
"Maintain an atmosphere of excitement in the learning process with the student body and the institutional staff. Receiving structured feedback from students is a 'pulse rate monitor' for the institution. Excitement is contagious; showing interest in a student's performance is infectious. When students feel vested in their learning process, along with having support from educators, their academic path becomes fulfilled. Career colleges have a solid footing in adult education when instructors and staff are dedicated to both the success of their students and building a supportive and passionate campus environment."
Carol Terracina-Hartman is a freelance writer based in Sacramento. She covers all things environment. In 2012, she received the Outstanding Service Award from the Knight Center for Environmental Journalism. See her work at Examiner.com.
