The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) celebrated 27 new troopers joining the Wisconsin State Patrol at a graduation ceremony held today in Wisconsin Dells. The milestone recognizes the completion of academy training for members of Wisconsin State Patrol’s 71st and 72nd Recruit Classes. The new troopers will soon begin serving in communities across the state.
At the ceremony, Gov. Tony Evers congratulated the new officers and thanked them for their commitment to public safety.
"It isn't an easy path or a short path to joining the Wisconsin State Patrol, but I commend all of you for getting the job done and being here to receive your badge today," said Gov. Evers. "We need dedicated public servants like you to lead our law enforcement efforts, and as a result of the comprehensive training you’ve undergone, I am confident each of you has what it takes to lead in this role admirably. Thank you for choosing to make this commitment and sacrifice for the people of Wisconsin.”
Wisconsin State Patrol officers enforce criminal and traffic laws, oversee motor carrier safety and assist local law enforcement agencies. Graduates can pursue opportunities to serve in various specialized units including air support, crash reconstruction, motor officer and many others.
“We rely on members of WisDOT’s Division of Wisconsin State Patrol to uphold traffic safety laws and help us connect with the public to encourage safe driving and prevent crashes,” WisDOT Deputy Secretary Scott Lawry said. “The ability to work together, across all divisions at WisDOT, is essential to our overall mission to maintain a safe and efficient transportation system. We’re honored that 27 new officers have chosen to join our team and help us accomplish our safety goals.”
The graduation ceremony was an opportunity to recognize the training required to become an officer with the Wisconsin State Patrol. The cadets completed classroom and scenario courses at the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy at Fort McCoy in accordance with state law enforcement training standards.
“We’re excited to welcome our new troopers to the team and look forward to their contributions as they serve with integrity, professionalism and honor,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “There are countless opportunities for new State Patrol troopers to pursue their passion that are unlike any other law enforcement agency in the state. It’s a duty but also a privilege to serve the people of Wisconsin.”
The Wisconsin State Patrol welcomed 12 officers new to law enforcement in the 71st Recruit Class and 15 current sworn law enforcement officers transferring from other law enforcement agencies as lateral hires in the 72nd Recruit Class. The 72nd Recruit Class completed an accelerated training program that rotated between two weeks at the Academy and two weeks training in the field for 16 weeks. While the 71st Recruit Class completed the traditional program spending 19 weeks training at the Academy. The new troopers will receive 12 additional weeks of on-the-job field training at their assigned posts in State Patrol’s five regions throughout Wisconsin.
Photos are available for download here. Watch the full ceremony online.
The Wisconsin State Patrol will begin accepting applications for the next traditional recruit class on January 11, 2026. Find more information on the 73rd Recruit Class hiring process online. Training begins on July 13, 2026.