Joint Field Training Exercise – The Trooper Training Gauntlet Challenge

The Trainees conclude their rigorous academy with a Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX), culminating scenarios and training events featuring realistic elements of the overall Texas Highway Patrol mission. Trooper Trainees test their grit, stamina, and ability, utilizing skills and knowledge obtained throughout the academy to prepare confident Texas State Troopers for the DPS mission. The Trainees participate in scenarios using inert training weapons ranging from vehicle pursuits to compliant driver traffic stops. The scenarios are structured to simulate a potential day in the life of a Texas State Trooper, including de-escalation techniques designed to help an officer attain compliance with the least amount of force necessary. The Trainees must demonstrate first responder breaching techniques, Exterior Response to Active Shooter Event training, and rural navigation using the Android Team Awareness Kit application and drone aircraft. Their in-depth training covers multiple days of intense training, beginning early in the morning and lasting past midnight.