Blog

  • Inside the Mat: How Judo Is Shaping the Future of Defensive Tactics at WSCJTC

    07/30/2025

    At the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC), a new kind of training is taking root—one that emphasizes control over confrontation, respect over reaction, and thoughtful technique over brute strength.

    This summer, WSCJTC launched a pilot program exploring law enforcement judo, a defensive tactics curriculum adapted from the long-standing and successful model used by Vancouver, Canada’s police force. The three-day course is designed for advanced instructors and builds on foundational training from… Read more

  • Accredited, Accountable, and Looking Ahead: What IADLEST Accreditation Means for WSCJTC—and the Future of Law Enforcement Training

    07/16/2025

    In March, the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC)  became the second law enforcement training agency in the nation to earn accreditation from the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST). WSCJTC received the highest score ever awarded by IADLEST. While the recognition marks a major milestone, its impact goes well beyond the title.

    IADLEST reviewed every aspect of our operation, including curriculum design,… Read more

  • Notes from the Executive's Desk

    07/10/2025

    July 2025 Edition 

    Raising the Bar: Welcoming Class 500 and Powering Forward in 2025

    This month marks a milestone for WSCJTC as we welcome COA Class 500—our 500th Corrections Officers Academy class. That number represents more than just the size of our training pipeline—it reflects years of commitment to preparing professionals who are ready to lead with integrity and compassion inside Washington’s jails. And the good news? We’ve eliminated the long waitlists that once delayed entry into the academy. For the… Read more

  • From Refugee to Role Model: Webaza Nicholas’ Journey to COA Graduation

    07/08/2025

    When Webaza Nicholas walked across the stage to receive his certificate from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission’s (WSCJTC) Corrections Officers Academy (COA), he carried more than just the weight of his training. He carried the journey of survival, perseverance, and purpose.

    Born in Uganda, Webaza fled persecution and violence before arriving in the United States as a refugee. After resettling in California, he worked hard to build a new life—learning English, earning multiple college degrees, and… Read more