After more than six years of service, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Law Enforcement Director, Brett Reid, has announced his departure. Reid came to the College in 2013 from College of Southern Idaho where he was the Coordinator and an instructor in the Law Enforcement program. Prior to his time in higher education, he had a career of more than 25 years in the criminal justice field as a police officer, corrections officer, and probation and parole officer.
Originally hired at CWI as the Dean of Business, Education, and Exercise and Health Science, Reid also served as Dean of Social Sciences and Public Affairs before joining CWI’s Law Enforcement program in 2016.
“Several moments stand out in my mind during my time at CWI. Among these moments are those I spent working side-by-side with talented faculty and administrators at what seemed like Mach speed toward accreditation.”
Reid has accepted a director position with the Southern Idaho Regional Communications Center in Jerome, Idaho, which serves as a dispatch center for 41 different emergency responder services including law enforcement, fire, and EMS services.
“Dispatch services are so important to the safety and well-being of not only our officers, fire fighters, and emergency responders, but to our communities. As we all know, the people who live in these communities are our friends and family who deserve to feel safe and secure each and every day.”
Although excited for this new endeavor, Reid says his time at CWI has been fulfilling.
“My time spent in the Law Enforcement program as both the coordinator and director has been tremendously rewarding. I feel there is no higher calling than to play a part in training those emergency responders who are willing to lay their lives down for others.”
Since its inception in 2015, the College’s Law Enforcement program has trained eight classes of students preparing them for careers in the law enforcement field. Many of these students are now working for agencies throughout the community.
“Our Law Enforcement graduation ceremonies were among the most special moments in my life. What I will miss most about CWI is the students and the many wonderful friendships and relationships I have built over the last six years.”
“If it weren’t for Brett’s relentless encouragement to join the Law Enforcement program, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today,” said 2017 graduate, Josh Argyle. “Not only do I have a career serving my community, but one that helps me grow as a person and allows me to build confidence in myself and my abilities – all of which make me a better, stronger, and more ethical individual. Brett inspired me to the point I now ask myself, ‘What would Brett do in this situation?’ He is a mentor, a role model, and a lifelong friend.”
Reid’s last day at CWI is Jan. 15, 2020.