Hickory – The City of Hickory and the Hickory Police Department (HPD) are proud to announce the launch of a new Police Cadet Program in partnership with Appalachian State University–Hickory (App State Hickory) and Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC). Beginning in Fall 2026, the program will offer college students a structured pathway into law enforcement and eventual employment as sworn officers with HPD.
The Hickory Police Cadet Program is designed to give App State students meaningful, hands‑on experience in policing, insight into department operations, and a clear preparation route for Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET). Participants will work closely with HPD staff as part of the Community Response Unit, gaining professional exposure to patrol, investigations, community engagement, and administrative functions.
“This partnership is an investment in the future of public safety within our community,” said Hickory Police Chief Bryan Adams. “By working directly with App State and CVCC, we’re giving students the opportunity to explore a law enforcement career in a supportive, educational environment while strengthening the pipeline of well‑trained, community‑oriented officers for Hickory.”
Program benefits include:
Real‑world paid training and practical experience within HPD
A guided advancement path toward sworn-officer status
Professional mentorship from experienced law enforcement personnel
Preparation for successful completion of BLET
Familiarity with HPD’s values and community policing philosophy
HPD operates with a commitment to community policing reflected in its guiding motto: Every Person. Every Call. Every Day. The new program reinforces that mission by equipping future officers with the knowledge, character, and dedication needed to serve the residents of Hickory with excellence.
“Regional partnerships like this are at the heart of what we do at App State Hickory,” said Dr. Amy Wood, vice provost of App State’s Hickory campus. “This collaboration provides students with meaningful opportunities to serve their community while preparing for careers in law enforcement. At the same time, it helps strengthen the public safety workforce across our region. We’re proud to partner with agencies that share our commitment to student success, public service, and the future of our communities.”
“The best career preparation happens when classroom learning and real-world experience come together,” said Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw, president of Catawba Valley Community College. “Programs like this allow students to begin building their careers before they graduate while helping employers develop the next generation of professionals. It’s a win for our students, our partners, and our community.”
Applications for the Hickory Police Cadet Program will open this summer. Students currently enrolled at App State Hickory who are interested in pursuing a law enforcement career are encouraged to apply.
To view eligibility requirements and employment terms, interested students must apply for the “Community Response Police Cadet” position at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/hickory.
For more information, visit www.hickorync.gov/police or contact the HPD Recruiting Sergeant at 828-261-2699.
Photo: Members of Hickory Police Department’s Community Response Unit gain valuable experience while assisting the public.
