Silverton Police Captain Returns from FBI National Academy with Advanced Leadership Training

SILVERTON, Ore. — Silverton Police Captain Mark Gaither has returned to his community after completing the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, equipped with advanced training in leadership, investigative techniques, and community policing, the Silverton Police Department announced Friday.

Gaither, a veteran officer, graduated from the FBI National Academy, a highly selective 10-week program designed for law enforcement leaders. The program, attended by fewer than 1% of officers nationwide, offers a rigorous curriculum to enhance law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide, according to the FBI.

Capt. Mark Gaither speaks about his experience at the FBI National Academy. (Interview by Derek Bratton)

The chief and I have gone, which is rare because you only get three seats for the whole state of Oregon and they run four classes a year,” Said Gaither “It's pretty prestigious. Only 1% of top law enforcement officers go.”

The FBI National Academy curriculum includes undergraduate and graduate-level courses in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, and forensic science. Participants also engage in specialized leadership training, studying topics such as crisis management, ethical decision-making, cyber investigations, and media relations.

In an on-the-street interview with Derek2Earth.com, Gaither shared how the program has strengthened his ability to serve Silverton. “The academy’s focus on leadership, communication, and innovative policing strategies has given me new tools to address our community’s needs,” Gaither said. “The networking with officers from across the globe was invaluable for sharing best practices.”

Gaither was among 239 officers who recently graduated, representing 49 U.S. states and 24 countries. The program fosters lifelong partnerships, enabling officers to share ideas and techniques that transcend state and national borders.

Police Chief Todd Engstrom brings Capt. Gaither to speak about his experience at Silverton's City Council meeting Wed, June 2 Meeting.

Silverton Police Chief Todd Engstrom praised Captain Mark Gaither’s achievement at the last City Council meeting, highlighting a recommended course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees.” “On day one of the class, the instructor said, ‘This is about leading at-risk employees, but that at-risk employee is probably you,’” Engstrom noted

Gaither’s training comes at a critical time as the department continues to prioritize community safety, demonstrated by its collaboration with the FBI in April to investigate a hoax active shooter threat at Silverton High School.