CATO Instructor Application

The CATO Training Cadre is a team of highly skilled instructors dedicated to advancing the readiness, education, and development of law enforcement professionals. As a CATO Training Cadre member, you are expected to:

  • Demonstrate exceptional instructional abilities
  • Uphold the highest standards of professionalism
  • Represent CATO’s mission and values

This role requires a commitment to delivering high-quality training and supporting the growth of law enforcement professionals across California and beyond.

Minimum Qualifications to Apply

  • Current full-time law enforcement officer, or honorably retired full-time law enforcement officer, military professional, or recognized subject matter expert.
  • Minimum of 5 years of full-time active law enforcement experience.
    Applicants with less than 5 years of full-time active law enforcement experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis based on exceptional qualifications and documented operational expertise.
  • Current LE: Must be in good standing with your current agency.
  • Retired applicants must have separated in good standing.
  • Documented operational experience in one or more of the following areas:
    • Response Tactics – SWAT, tactical patrol, active shooter incidents
    • Firearms – Use-of-force, high-risk operations
    • Leadership and Command – Supervisory roles, incident command, team leadership
  • Documented instructional experience in law enforcement, military, or tactical training.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to effectively deliver adult education.
  • Willingness to travel for CATO training events as scheduled.
  • An active member of CATO who possesses a strong commitment to representing CATO with professionalism, integrity, and alignment with its core mission.

Ready to apply? Please proceed to the form below to begin your application.

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Position Overview & Applicant Confirmation
I have read and understand the position expectations and minimum qualifications. I confirm that I meet these minimum qualifications and wish to proceed with my application.
Personal Information
Full Name (First, Middle, Last)
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Personal Cell Phone Number
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Contact Email (email you check on a regular basis)
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Provide your birthdate: Month/Day/Year
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Are you a United States Citizen?
Did you serve in the United States Military?
Professional Experience
Are you active (full-time) or retired law enforcement officer?
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Total Years of Law Enforcement Experience
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Employer/Agency/Organization.
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Current Position/Rank
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Have you previously served as an instructor for any law enforcement agency or professional organization?
If "Yes", list the agencies/organizations and topics instructed. If "No" type N/A
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Are you the owner, have ownership in, or teach for a private training company?
If "Yes", list the training company name. If "No" type N/A
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Please upload your resume or CV.
Training & Certifications
Do you have any instructor-level certifications?
Upload any/all Instructor-level Certifications
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If a CA LEO, please upload your CA POST Profile.
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Do you have a college degree?
If yes, list the educational intuition(s) and degree obtained
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Upload any/all degrees attained
Instructional Capabilities
What types of training are you most qualified to instruct?
Availability & Commitment
What is your general availability for instructing CATO training courses?
Can you participate in the yearly CATO Training Conference?
Are you willing to travel outside your area to train for 2-5 days?
Can you commit to training a minimum of 10 days throughout the year for CATO?
Personal Statement
In 150 words or less, explain why you are interested in joining the CATO Training Cadre and how you will contribute to the mission of CATO.
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Professional References - CATO will contact
Reference #1 – Name, Position, Agency, Contact Info
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Reference #2 – Name, Position, Agency, Contact Info
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Reference #3 – Name, Position, Agency, Contact Info
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Professional Reference
Please submit a letter of recommendation from an Immediate Supervisor, Training Supervisor, or Chief/Sheriff
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