capability saves the unit thousands of dollars in training cost. However, the majority of the primary training is done outside the agency. “Having an outside source provide our primary training is great, not only because it provides objective, quality training, but it also reduces risk for the agency,” said Sgt. Miller.


Notably, another “first” on the horizon for the unit is that of officer Charvonte Williams. She’s the newest TFO to the unit and has begun her pilot training. As she gains more experience and works towards completing her FAA pilot ratings, she may become the first African American female pilot in the unit’s history.


Once the TFO is rated as a commercial pilot, they then have the opportunity to fly the aircraft and build experience on flight segments when not performing TFO duties. Finally, once a pilot retires or transfers to another position in the department, the TFO will have an opportunity to be promoted to the position of PIC. Once the TFO is selected to become a PIC, they are sent to MD Helicopters in Mesa, Arizona, to receive their initial factory training course to learn aircraft systems and emergency procedures. Miller indicates that MD not only provides world-class training, but by doing some of the higher-risk training maneuvers (e.g. autorotations) in MD aircraft, it eliminates the risk of damaging the unit’s helicopters.


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