NEWS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
David Quinlan, Communications Manager | david.quinlan@cjtc.wa.gov
WSCJTC PILOTS VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING, INVITES MEDIA TO DEMONSTRATION
Burien, WA – Oct. 7, 2025 – The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) is piloting Virtual Reality (VR) training in partnership with Axon, introducing immersive, hands-on instruction designed to sharpen decision-making, build empathy and increase retention among recruits.
The pilot program, now underway at WSCJTC, allows recruits to engage in realistic simulations ranging from mental health crises to tactical decision-making. Instead of sitting in a classroom lecture, recruits experience training that mirrors real-world scenarios in a safe and controlled environment.
“Our communities expect well-trained, thoughtful and professional officers,” said WSCJTC Executive Director Monica Alexander. “By bringing virtual reality into our training, we are preparing recruits to handle complex situations with empathy and confidence. This is about advancing public safety while ensuring every officer we train is ready to serve with integrity.”
WSCJTC will host a demonstration of the VR training system for members of the media on Thursday, Oct 7, at its Burien campus. Attendees will be able to experience training modules firsthand and learn more about how technology is shaping the future of public safety education.
Event Details for Media
- What: VR Training Demonstration and Media Briefing
- When: Tuesday October 7, 2025, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission at 19010 1st Ave. S., Burien, Wash. 98148
Media are encouraged to RSVP to David Quinlan at dquinlan@cjtc.wa.gov.
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ABOUT WSCJTC: Established in 1974, WSCJTC provides training to law enforcement, corrections officers, and other public safety professionals. Its mission is to establish certification and training standards so criminal justice professionals in Washington state have the knowledge and skills to protect the communities it serves. For more information, visit Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.