CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) is proud to
announce Sergeant Steve Wiertel’s graduation from the renowned National
Public Safety Innovation Academy (NIA).
The NIA is an intensive eight-week executive level course for members of
law enforcement and corrections with a drive to become effective leaders.
The program, led by nationally recognized subject matter experts, focuses
on current challenges and emerging trends in the ever-evolving world of
public safety and criminal justice. Some of the key topics include servant
leadership, cyber threats, drones, and trauma awareness.
"The National Innovative Academy provided powerful, forward-thinking
training that sharpened my leadership skills and gave me practical
strategies I can immediately apply in my department," said Sergeant Wiertel.
Sergeant Wiertel was one of 25 graduates in the NIA’s sixth cohort. The
class included officers from agencies across Tennessee, Alabama, Florida,
Illinois, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Sergeant Wiertel is the third CPD
leader to complete the program. Lieutenant Joe Shaw graduated earlier this
year and Lieutenant Justin Kilgore completed the course in 2024.
“Sergeant Steve Wiertel represents the very best of our department’s
leadership,” said Chief John Chambers. “He leads by example, consistently
demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to those
he serves and supervises. His graduation from the NIA is a reflection of
his dedication to growth and innovation in public safety, and we are
incredibly proud of his continued leadership within our ranks.”
Sergeant Wiertel, a 26-year veteran of CPD, currently serves in the
Neighborhood Policing Bureau and is involved with the department’s weekly
physical training and functional fitness. He’s also worked in Crime Scene
and Special Victims Units.
Sergeant Wiertel’s achievement demonstrates CPD’s commitment to supporting
professional growth and innovative leadership development at every level of
the department, ensuring officers are better prepared to meet the needs of
our community.
