Now accepting LETO applications through March 29

Not every Minnesota State trooper begins their career in law enforcement. Some come from offices, rail yards, dispatch centers or college classrooms. What they all share is a commitment to public safety and a passion to make Minnesota's roads safer.

The Law Enforcement Training Opportunity (LETO) program through the Minnesota State Patrol provides a direct pathway for people with a two- or four-year degree in any discipline to become state troopers — even if they have no prior law enforcement experience.

Through LETO, selected candidates are hired as state employees and paid while completing the required law enforcement education and skills training. Tuition is covered, allowing participants to focus fully on learning and building the foundation for a successful career in public safety. After successfully completing the program, participants continue into the State Patrol Academy for advanced training and preparation to take the Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) licensing exam — the final step to becoming a licensed peace officer.

You can apply for the LETO program here. The application window closes on March 29.

Below, four troopers share how the LETO program helped them take a different path — and why they would do it again.

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Trooper Kyle Oswald

Age: 33

Patrol area: East Metro

Kyle spent approximately eight years working as a 911 dispatcher for Dakota County before applying to the LETO program.

He had already built a career in public safety, but wanted to serve in a different capacity. The professionalism of the Minnesota State Patrol, and the respect it receives from the public stood out to him.

Today, one of the most rewarding aspects of his career is giving back.

"Not only the community, but to the profession," Kyle said. "Becoming an instructor in multiple disciplines and serving on the agency's peer support team — helping fellow troopers navigate critical incidents and the stresses of the profession — has been extremely rewarding. Passing on knowledge and experience to other troopers matters."

His message to anyone considering LETO is simple:

"Do it. You won't regret it."

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Trooper Kelvin Harris

Age: 29

Patrol area: West Metro

Before joining the LETO program, Kelvin was a full-time student at Metro State University, while also working full-time at Boston Scientific.

He’d always thought highly of the State Patrol and the role troopers play in the community.

"For me, it was the uniform, the squad car and I had always heard great things about the State Patrol," Kelvin said.

He finds it especially rewarding to connect with the people he serves every day.

“Any time I get to talk with people about what we do and why we do it, that’s rewarding,” he said. “Arresting impaired drivers and getting them off the road is also rewarding. To me, that means I may have saved someone from being hurt.”

His advice to future applicants:

“It’s a great opportunity. Take full advantage of it. Your tuition is paid, you’re earning a paycheck while you learn and you gain the knowledge you need to get licensed and understand Minnesota law.”

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Trooper Delaney Row

Age: 28

Patrol Area: West Metro

After graduating with a degree in communications, Delaney began working as a freight broker for a trucking company. Within months, she realized she did not want to spend her career in an office or in sales.

"I knew I wanted something different," she said. "LETO allowed me to pursue a new career path."

She was especially drawn to the State Patrol's mission of traffic safety and its focus on traffic stops, crash investigations and removing impaired drivers from the road.

"The most rewarding part of this job is holding dangerous drivers accountable," Delaney said. "That protects everyone else on the road. Most people are grateful for what we do, and getting that positive feedback from the public each day is really fulfilling."

Her suggestion for those curious about the career:

“Go on a ride-along. Seeing what a typical day looks like can really help you decide if this career is right for you.”

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Trooper Mohamed Bah

Age: 35

Patrol Area: East Metro

Before becoming a trooper, Mohamed worked as a crane operator for BNSF Railway. He was looking for a career where he could serve the public and have a direct impact on saving lives.

"The LETO program provided a clear pathway to becoming a state trooper while still earning a paycheck and receiving high-quality training," he said.

The professionalism, high standards and the opportunity to work anywhere in Minnesota stood out to him.

For Mohamed, the most rewarding part of the job is knowing his work has a direct impact on the safety of Minnesota roadways.

“Removing impaired drivers from the road, assisting crash victims during difficult moments and helping drivers in need — those are meaningful parts of the job.”

His advice:

“If you’re considering applying, go ahead and get it done. You get paid while attending school, your education is covered, and you can focus fully on your training. It’s a strong foundation and a clear path to becoming a state trooper.”

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