Three dozen A-B Tech Basic Law Enforcement Training students completed their training and passed their state exams in December, with some of them continuing a family tradition in the profession.
Jamil Hawes, who used to work at the Buncombe County jail, decided to follow his sister Lakeisha’s career path. She is currently an officer at the Asheville Police Department.
“I wanted to help my community,” Hawes said. He also said his mother encouraged him in his quest for a new career. The A-B Tech Police Department sponsored Hawes’ training and has offered him a full-time job as an officer.
A total of 36 graduates from the summer day class and spring night class were honored in a ceremony at the College after each of the cadets passed a 300-question, six-unit certification exam.
Retiring A-B Tech President Dennis King was one of the guest speakers with Mars Hill Police Chief Michael Garrison. King passed on seven pieces of advice to the graduates, which included celebrating successes, being humble, ethical, and open to change.
Graduate Garrett Elkins said he always wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps. Captain John Elkins of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department said, “It’s not an easy decision to make and it’s a tough career choice. I’m blessed to have a son who wanted to do this.”
In addition to Elkins, graduates with family ties in policing included Randall Dalton Sorrells, son of recently retired Major Randall Sorrells, and Tanner Scott Bissinger another son of a retired Sheriff’s deputy. Their fathers worked for the Sheriff’s Department together and were able to watch their sons graduate in the same class.