Charlotte County, FL – March 30, 2023
Lt. Jason Zakowich graduated from the inaugural National Public Safety Innovation Academy (NIA) in Winter Haven, FL earlier this month. The eight-week executive-level academy for law enforcement and corrections supervisors addresses the challenges facing effective leadership in the ever-changing world of public safety. The academy is hosted by Polk State College in partnership with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Lt. Jason Zakowich was hired in June of 2004 and has served in a variety of positions to include Road Patrol, Criminal Investigations, FBI Task Force Agent, Major Crimes, Narcotics, Internal Affairs, Watch Commander, and currently Training Commander. Lt. Zakowich has been a proud member of SWAT for the past 15 years and is currently serving as the SWAT Commander.
Lt. Zakowich has a Bachelors in Management from the University of Florida and is presently securing his Masters in Management from American Public University.
During the 8-week academy, participants attended courses such as Servant Leadership, Predictive Analytics and Legal, Media, Drone and Futuristics, Mental Illness and Trauma Awareness and Public Safety Integration. The courses are designed to inspire and influence attendees to lead their teams proactively, strategically, and ethically.
“Going through the class not only allowed me to learn about myself and leadership, but it also provided me with knowledge, skills, and resources to bring back and use within the agency. The experience was invaluable, enjoyable, and highly recommended for future leaders in Law Enforcement, expresses Lt. Jason Zakowich.
“We are extremely proud of Lt. Zakowich and his dedication to not only the community he serves but also for being a true role model in our vision of being a leader in public safety through innovation and technology, ” says Sheriff Prummell. “Thank you to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Grady Judd for your commitment to leadership development,” Prummell adds.
For details into the academy, visit:
National Public Safety Innovation Academy | Polk State College
Kenneth C. Thompson Institute of Public Safety
I was lucky to have worked with Jason a very professional guy. He was a hard worker and a great person.