Professional staff discuss law enforcement leadership at Leading Without a Badge Summit
From April 13–15, 2025, more than 180 public safety professionals from across the country gathered in Charlottesville, Virginia, for the Leading Without a Badge Summit—a first-of-its-kind event hosted by the University of Virginia’s Center for Public Safety and Justice.
What set this event apart wasn’t just the representation from over 103 agencies across 22 states, it was the overwhelming sense of recognition, connection, and purpose that filled the room. For many attendees who play critical roles at their law enforcement agencies, this was the first time they had been part of a conference designed specifically for professional staff in law enforcement. As one attendee aptly put it, “These are my people.”
The result was a dynamic mix of bureau and division leaders, policy advisors, chiefs of staff, analysts, training experts, technology specialists, and communications professionals—coming together with a shared mission: to learn, collaborate, and elevate the impact of professional staff’s contributions to public safety.
Civilian leadership: essential, evolving and embedded
A central theme of the conference was clear: professional staff in law enforcement are integral to how modern agencies operate, evolve, and engage with the communities they serve. Participants heard and learned from professional staff leaders who run communications departments; drive recruiting, hiring, and wellness initiatives; oversee analytical functions; develop and implement technology programs; lead training academies, among so much more. Professional staff bring complementary skillsets and expertise that help drive strategy, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.
One idea that echoed throughout the event was the notion that professional staff serve as the “scaffolding” that enables agencies to build meaningful and lasting change. Their perspectives help shape data-driven policies, guide agency-wide initiatives, and build trust—both within departments and across communities. Together, sworn and professional staff form a complete public safety ecosystem—each bringing unique strengths while contributing to a shared mission.
Key themes that emerged
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Leading Without Formal Authority
Professional staff often lead through influence as well as than rank. At the conference, attendees explored how leadership grounded in trust, credibility, and consistency can be just as powerful as any rank. Whether navigating complex organizational dynamics or advising on multi-disciplinary initiatives, these professionals exemplify what it means to lead by example—by showing up, listening, and driving meaningful results. -
Bridging Gaps and Building Relationships
Participants spoke candidly about the importance of understanding law enforcement tradition and culture and fostering strong partnerships across roles and ranks. Relationship-building emerged as a core competency—whether working with sworn counterparts, community stakeholders or other government agencies. Professional staff frequently serve as connectors—building bridges between departments and teams for more strategic and collaborative problem solving. -
Innovation with Intention
From data strategy and technology implementation to evidence-based practices and training, professional staff are often at the forefront of innovation. But with innovation comes responsibility. Sessions underscored the need to define problems clearly before deploying solutions, especially when adopting emerging tools like artificial intelligence. Issues like privacy, transparency, and community engagement must be thoughtfully addressed from the beginning. -
Institutional Knowledge and Sustainability
Another critical takeaway was the need to preserve institutional knowledge, particularly in times of transition or organizational change. Professional staff often carry deep knowledge of policies, systems, and long-term initiatives. Retaining and supporting that expertise is essential for maintaining continuity, stability and progress.
A shared commitment to public safety
Throughout the conference, a spirit of collaboration and deep sense of mutual respect was clear. Professional staff spoke to the privilege of working alongside sworn officers and their unwavering commitment to public safety. In turn, agencies are increasingly recognizing the value of investing in their professional staff—offering more leadership opportunities, clearer career pathways, and stronger integration into the agency’s strategic direction.
For command staff and chiefs, the conference served as a reminder that professional staff bring distinct capabilities that can enhance the performance and credibility of the agency. When professional staff are empowered to lead and equipped to succeed, the entire organization benefits.
For professional staff, Leading Without a Badge was more than just professional development—it was a sense of community. It created space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build confidence in their roles. During the conference, that same spirit of connection was reflected in the launch of the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety, a new organization dedicated to supporting and elevating professional staff across the country. As law enforcement continues to evolve, the partnership between sworn and professional staff will only grow more essential. Leading Without a Badge was just the beginning. The momentum it sparked lives on in those who returned to their agencies with a renewed sense of purpose—and a shared commitment to shaping a stronger, smarter, and more connected future for public safety.
This article also appears on Mark43.