Local Sergeant Honored with Instructor of the Year Award

A local law enforcement officer has earned a prestigious accolade, shining a spotlight on his years of service and dedication to the profession.

Recognizing Excellence in Law Enforcement Training

Sergeant Terry Bridge of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office was recently awarded the Colorado Attorney General’s Office Excellence in Teaching: Instructor of the Year award for 2024. The award, presented by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser on January 9, 2025, coincided with National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.

Sergeant Bridge’s recognition stems from his exceptional teaching abilities and commitment to developing future law enforcement officers at the Western Colorado Peace Officers Academy (WCPOA). His contributions have left a lasting impact on the training and education of cadets.

Sheriff’s Office Commends Bridge’s Dedication

Mesa County Sheriff Todd Rowell, who attended the award ceremony in Denver, expressed his admiration for Bridge’s achievements. “I couldn’t be more proud of Sergeant Bridge and his contributions to the future of law enforcement,” said Rowell. “He is an inspiration and trusted source of knowledge and experience for those aspiring to have a career in this field.”

Bridge’s role as a mentor has not only shaped the skills of new recruits but also reinforced the importance of professionalism and integrity within the force. His efforts underscore the value of seasoned officers in nurturing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

Decades of Service and Expertise

Sergeant Bridge’s tenure with WCPOA began in 2007, when the academy first opened its doors. A year later, he earned certification as a POST-certified Firearms Full Skills Instructor. His expertise was further recognized in 2014 when he was named a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in firearms instruction.

Though Bridge retired from teaching at the academy last year, he continues to serve the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, further contributing to the department’s mission and success.

Career Milestones

The highlights of Sergeant Bridge’s distinguished career include:

• Over 15 years as a firearms instructor at WCPOA.
• Certification as a POST Firearms Full Skills Instructor in 2008.
• Recognition as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in firearms instruction since 2014.

These milestones reflect his unwavering dedication to both his students and the broader law enforcement community.