The department’s Field Training and Evaluation Program is composed of five phases over the course of eighteen months. During each phase, the probationary officer is assigned to a Field Training Officer (FTO). Only those officers whose work history indicates reliable performance along with a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate verbally as an instructor are chosen to be FTOs. Officers selected as FTOs receive 40 hours of state-certified instruction to prepare the skills necessary to apply practical in-the-field training/coaching techniques, and to reliably assess the probationary officer’s performance.