HICKORY — The City of Hickory and the Hickory Police Department said July 13, 2026, that they are launching a Police Cadet Program with Appalachian State University–Hickory and Catawba Valley Community College, beginning Fall 2026.
The city described the program as a structured path into law enforcement and eventual employment as sworn Hickory officers. Cadets are to work with Hickory Police staff on the Community Response Unit and see patrol, investigations, community engagement, and administrative work. The notice said the program is meant to give App State students hands-on policing experience and a preparation route for Basic Law Enforcement Training.
“This partnership is an investment in the future of public safety within our community,” Hickory Police Chief Bryan Adams said. “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.”
Benefits listed:
- Real-world paid training and practical experience within Hickory Police
- A guided advancement path toward sworn-officer status
- Professional mentorship from experienced law enforcement personnel
- Preparation for successful completion of BLET
- Familiarity with the department’s values and community-policing philosophy
The department motto cited is “Every Person. Every Call. Every Day.”
“Regional partnerships like this are at the heart of what we do at App State Hickory,” Dr. Amy Wood, vice provost of App State’s Hickory campus, said. “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,” CVCC President Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw said. “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 were to open in the summer. The city said students currently enrolled at App State Hickory who want a law enforcement career are encouraged to apply for the “Community Response Police Cadet” posting at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/hickory. More information is at www.hickorync.gov/police or through the recruiting sergeant at 828-261-2699.
The July 13 notice does not list pay, the number of cadet slots, or a closing date for applications.
Official release from City of Hickory, July 13, 2026. https://www.hickorync.gov/hickory-police-department-announces-new-police-cadet-program
