OPOTC-certified peace officers, deputies, and troopers employed full- or part-time by an Ohio law enforcement agency, or another state's equivalent.

The OTOA SWAT Commander Course is a four-day advanced leadership program for current and future tactical commanders and agency leaders responsible for SWAT operations. The course focuses on the commander's responsibility to build, lead, support, and evaluate a professional tactical program—before, during, and after critical incidents.

Participants examine Commander's Intent, mission planning and review, command and control, risk management, policy, training, personnel, liability, interoperability, and organizational readiness through facilitated discussion, case studies, and practical exercises.

The course emphasizes the relationship between the Commander and Team Leader, developing leaders who can establish clear intent, evaluate tactical plans, ask the right questions, allocate appropriate resources, and provide effective oversight without unnecessarily directing tactical execution.

Course Length: 4 Days / approximately 32 hours

Student Requirements:

• A laptop computer to review documents and prepare presentations.
• A copy of the agency's SWAT policies and procedures/guidelines.
• A copy of the agency's threat assessment matrix.

Start Time: Each day begins promptly at 8:00 AM. The course spans at least 8 hours per day and is structured to ensure comprehensive coverage over multiple days.

Note: Students will receive a scheduled lunch break; however, lunch will not be provided. Please plan accordingly and bring your own food and beverages.

Day 1: Lead → Day 2: Command → Day 3: Build → Day 4: Sustain

Day 1 — Role of Command & Operational Planning

Day 2 — Command & Control

Day 3 — Building & Maintaining the Team

Day 4 — Command Responsibility & Program Oversight

If you are allergic to bees, outdoor plants, or animals, please bring your epinephrine pen or other medication.

Report life-threatening allergies and pre-existing injuries or conditions to the OTOA training staff on day one of training.

Students are responsible for their ammunition, lodging, transportation, and food.