CHATTANOOGA, Tenn – The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) today celebrated the graduation 21 cadets from its 20-week police academy.
Image
The members of CPD Class 2026-2 came into the academy with a wide range of life experiences and professional backgrounds, but shared a common goal of
serving the Chattanooga community. Among the graduates are four military veterans, a former professional football player, a recruit from the Middle East, two whose siblings already serve with CPD, a former wildland firefighter, a personal trainer, and a welder.
"Every officer brings a unique perspective shaped by their own experiences, and that's one of our department's greatest strengths," said Chief John Chambers. "Building a department with people from different backgrounds and professions helps us better understand and serve the diverse community that calls Chattanooga home."
The new officers will now begin 16 weeks of field training, working alongside experienced CPD Field Training Officers as they transition into patrol assignments.
The graduation ceremony was held at Abba's House in Hixson. CPD thanks Abba's House for providing the event space to celebrate this milestone for the department's newest officers.
Congratulations to CPD Academy Class 2026-2!