USU Eastern Press Release
PRICE – For Officer Nickolas Parker, Utah State University Eastern’s POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) program was more than an educational opportunity—it was a transformative step toward a meaningful career in law enforcement. Now serving with Utah Adult Probation and Parole, Parker reflects on his experiences in the POST program and how it prepared him to navigate the complexities of law enforcement, pursue community service, and inspire generational change in his family.
Parker’s path to the USU Eastern POST program was influenced by several unique factors, starting with the program’s affordability and flexibility. As a non-degree option, it offered direct pathways to employment while allowing him to work during the day to support his family. Parker explains, “The tuition to enroll was fair and affordable, and the program typically leads the cadet directly to employment.”
The POST program’s structure was particularly appealing, as it provided certifications in Special Functions Officer, Basic Correctional Officer, and Law Enforcement Officer within one program. These certifications proved invaluable in broadening his career options and laying the groundwork for his future roles in law enforcement. The fact that many of the instructors were local police officers was another attraction for Parker, who aspired to serve his community in Eastern Utah. “My desire was to remain in the area and work for a local police department, so having instructors who were active law enforcement officers in the community was a bonus,” he says.
Parker’s decision to pursue a career in law enforcement was deeply personal, stemming from a desire to make a difference and create generational change. Having witnessed family members struggle with involvement in the criminal justice system, he felt driven to pursue a career path that would allow him to help others. “I wanted a career that would not only achieve generational change in my family, but also allow me to help people in our community, build relationships, and protect others from harm,” he shares.
Parker credits USU Eastern’s POST program with providing the skills and training necessary for his law enforcement career. The program’s 360-hour curriculum covered diverse topics, including accident investigation, patrol techniques, arrest control, legal procedures, and officer survival. This intensive training set him up for success from his first job with Price City Police to his current role with Adult Probation and Parole.
One of the program’s standout aspects was its emphasis on hands-on training. Parker notes that the hands-on exercises fostered teamwork, communication, and real-time problem-solving—skills he uses daily in his work. “The hands-on portion of training forced me to figure out solutions and focus on problem-solving and critical thinking skills in the moment, which is as ‘real world’ as you can get in a training setting,” Parker explains. By actively applying classroom learning, he felt better prepared to navigate the dynamic challenges of police
After completing the POST program, Parker worked as a patrolman for Price City Police for over six years before moving to Utah Adult Probation and Parole. In his current position, he supervises a caseload of 40-60 sex offense cases and serves as a certified physical data analyst for cellular devices. The skills he gained from USU Eastern, particularly in crisis intervention and tactical training, have proven essential in handling complex, high-stakes situations.
“Tactical training…comes alive in unpredictable, high-stakes situations,” Parker reflects. He also emphasizes the importance of empathy and communication, noting that foundational skills acquired at the academy continue to guide him in building meaningful relationships within the community.
Parker encourages anyone considering a career in law enforcement to seize the opportunity offered by USU Eastern’s POST program. “DO NOT WAIT—Enroll now and get your career started. Take advantage of having a program like this in our area,” he advises. Beyond immediate employment, he points out that POST credits can contribute toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, furthering both educational and career advancement opportunities.
Another unique advantage of the program is its close-knit environment. “The people training you are most likely the people you will end up working with if you get a job in this area. This builds trust and relationships from academy day one,” Parker says, emphasizing how these relationships have been instrumental in his career.
Officer Nickolas Parker’s journey from cadet to law enforcement professional, illustrates the powerful role of USU Eastern’s POST program in preparing future officers. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, the program equips cadets to handle the challenges they’ll face in the field. For Parker, the lessons learned at USU Eastern have remained invaluable throughout his career, supporting his mission to protect and serve his community.
For those seeking a career that’s both challenging and fulfilling, Parker’s story stands as a testament to the enduring impact of USU Eastern’s POST program and the opportunities it offers for personal and professional growth. For more information regarding the Criminal Justice program, visit chass.usu.edu.
