Wilson Talent Center alumni and current students are proving the power of career exploration through programs like the Lansing Police Department’s Explorer Program—a hands-on initiative that gives students an inside look at the world of law enforcement.
Damon Pulver, now a Lansing Police Officer, traces his passion and purpose back to his time at WTC and participation in Explorer training.
“We need people to be passionate in this career field, and programs like this help people build that passion,” said Pulver in a recent WILX interview.
Current WTC student Brandon Bartotti is following a similar path. Through the Explorer Program, he participates in ride-alongs, traffic stops, community events, and other real-world experiences that prepare him for what’s ahead—whether he ultimately pursues a career in policing or not.
“The skills you gain in the class will definitely benefit you for life,” said Bartotti.
“One of the biggest takeaways,” adds Pulver, “is knowing how to interact with the community—not just in times of emergency.”
For Noel Garcia Jr., Law Enforcement Instructor at Wilson Talent Center, it’s about building bridges between education and service.
“I wanted to showcase and highlight that my former students are moving on to careers, but they remember where they came from and come back and help us here, too.”
Programs like these connect students to purpose—and communities to the next generation of leaders.
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