The OKCPD Cadet Program focuses on mentoring inner-city youths from the Oklahoma City Public School System (OKCPS) who aspire to have a career in law enforcement.  Our police department has partnered with Metro Technology Center, Francis Tuttle Technology Center, and OKCPS to identify young adults interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. The students receive valuable training through Metro Tech and Francis Tuttle Law Enforcement Programs, from technical school instructors, as well as Oklahoma City Police Department instructors/mentors. These programs provide two years of instruction to High School Juniors and Seniors. After completing this two-year program, cadets will acquire various law enforcement related certifications, including their unarmed security certification, which will help them in their future careers. Graduating high school cadets may become eligible to apply for the OKCPD Cadet Program.  You must be between the ages of 18-22 years of age to take part in the Oklahoma City Police Department Cadet Program.

Upon acceptance into the Oklahoma City Police Department Cadet Program, Police Cadets will receive guidance, mentoring and support from their police officer mentors. Potential cadets must complete an application packet, pass a background check, and interview with an oral board before being accepted into the program.

Continued education through local colleges is encouraged for the Police Department Cadets. For those students who have a financial need for employment, program partners can provide employment in various service-oriented positions.

Police Department Cadets must also conduct a minimum number of monthly community service hours and training. Community service hours consist of various community events and functions where Cadets will represent the program, our police department, and our city. Cadets will receive training and mentoring through this program that will help them with making good life choices, will educate them on the police department application process, and with requirements and expectations of the police academy. Cadets who wish to apply for the Oklahoma City Police Department can begin the application process at 20 ½ years of age.  

Through training, mentoring, education, and employment assistance, it is our hope that we will positively influence our youth towards a career in public service.