Joseph Geistman
At 42 years old, Joseph Geistman decided he was ready for a career change. He enrolled in Victoria College’s Law Enforcement Academy with a goal of serving his community. Thanks to a partnership between VC and the Victoria Police Department (VPD), the Victoria native was able to pursue that goal at no cost while earning a paycheck.
“I’ve always wanted to pursue law enforcement, and I wasn’t getting any younger, so I decided now was the time to do it,” said Geistman. “It takes a lot of pressure off knowing I don’t have to work outside of doing this because it’s a very demanding program.”
Geistman is one of 11 cadets sponsored by the VPD in the current class. Each cadet receives pay and benefits while attending the academy, in addition to having tuition covered. After graduating and passing the state licensing exam, cadets will continue their education and training with the VPD through its field training program.
For Geistman, taking advantage of the opportunity was an easy decision. He previously worked for the Aransas County Office of Emergency Management but had always dreamed of becoming a law enforcement officer. Now, he’s the oldest cadet in the class and is on track to graduate in December.
“It’s been stressful at times, but everyone involved in the program has made it an experience I’m sure we’ll all remember,” he added. “We’ve had incredible instructors from VPD, the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office, and other local agencies who have really prepared us to take the next step.”
As part of their hands-on training, cadets recently spent time at the shooting range, honing their skills with a pistol, shotgun, and rifle as they prepare to meet state firearms qualification standards.
“This is the best academy in the region,” said Geistman. “It’s been a great learning experience.”
VC offers two academies each year – one in the fall and one in the spring. Graduates who complete the program are eligible to take the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement examination to become licensed peace officers in Texas. VC also offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice that prepares students for an entry-level position in the law enforcement field.
In the Golden Crescent region, mid-level pay for law enforcement averages $30 per hour, with 41 annual openings.
Learn more about Victoria College’s Law Enforcement Academy at VictoriaCollege.edu/PublicService.