Congratulations to our CSLEA and ACWO member!

SACRAMENTO – On June 13, 2024, Erica Manes, Deputy Chief / Assistant Deputy Director at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced that CDFW Officer Mark White was awarded 2024 Trainer of the Year.  White works as an instructor and Field Training Officer (FTO) preparing new officers who have graduated from the academy for their public safety work in the field. 

White’s role as an FTO began in 2018.  He has trained and guided 16 new officers.

“His ability to pass on knowledge and experience to new recruits has made him a valuable asset to the department and especially the FTO program,” Manes wrote in her announcement to CDFW.  “In 2024, he successfully trained four trainees, including three back-to-back-to-back, all while continuing to keep up with district needs.  His ability to adapt to the needs of each trainee and ensure they receive the highest level of training demonstrates his exceptional skill, work ethic, and commitment as an FTO. He works tirelessly to make sure trainees learn, understand, and grasp the skills needed to be a successful Game Warden.  Mark also regularly shares his vast knowledge with cadets by assisting with the academy Fish and Game Scenarios where he teaches, evaluates, and critiques developing new officers in high stress scenarios.”

 White is a POST certified instructor in several areas and trains officers on the appropriate use of force in the field preparing officers and cadets with the physical and tactical skills needed for managing confrontational situations. He is also a Freshwater Fish Regulation/Identification instructor at the CDFW academy.

 “His passion for training, commitment to excellence, and his impactful contributions to the field make him truly deserving of the 2024 California Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement Trainer of the Yearaward,” wrote Manes.

“We are extremely proud of the work Mark does in protecting the public and California’s natural resources, as well a training our newest officers and cadets,” said Trevor Pell, president of the Association of California Fish and Wildlife Officers (ACWO).  “All that dedication, passion for his job, and professionalism is admired and respected.  He is a true role model and we thank him for him membership to ACWO and the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA).  Thank you for your service and commitment to CDFW and California, Mark, congratulations!  You earned this award and are very deserving of it.”