The Call for Proposals for #ILEETA2025 is open!

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Are you considering submitting a course proposal for the 2025 ILEETA Conference? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you craft a compelling and successful proposal based on a class developed by Harvey Hedden. ILEETA encourages everyone to submit course proposals, focusing on what you do particularly well and exploring innovative subject areas.

The ILEETA Conference and Expo is the largest gathering of international law enforcement trainers in the world and draws hundreds of law enforcement training stakeholders from numerous countries each year.

To present at the ILEETA Conference is an opportunity to offer the profession your perspective in your area of expertise.  About 120 courses are offered during the week-long conference in 11 subject areas. This is the perfect opportunity to share some insight and gather feedback from some of the world’s top trainers.

Key Points to Consider:

If you are going to submit a proposal, consider these key points.

1. Only Instructor-Oriented Proposals Will Be Selected:  Ensure the subject is instructor-oriented. The ILEETA Conference & Expo is an instructors’ conference, so your proposal should clearly articulate how instructors will benefit from attending your course. Think about what attendees will take back to their agencies; the best courses provide participants with actionable information or tools they can implement at their agency. No infomercials; presenting at the ILEETA Conference is not an opportunity to sell a product or promote a specific course. Instructors affiliated with private sector training companies are still encouraged to submit proposals. To make your ILEETA course more beneficial, highlight one or two key outcomes from your best-selling course or share valuable information typically reserved for paid attendees. Offering genuine value will quickly enhance your reputation and fill your second class, while promoting products or services will likely deter participants and leave your second session empty.
2. Subject Areas / Tracks: To keep things organized we currently have 11 topic areas you will be asked to align your proposal with. This helps attendees select courses and helps organizers deconflict schedules and ensure classes do not interfere with each other.
   • Active Shooter – The Active Shooter Subject area at the ILEETA Conference focuses on equipping law enforcement officers with the latest knowledge and skills to effectively respond to active shooter and hostile events. This subject area includes courses that cover a range of essential topics, such as identifying lessons learned from past incidents, understanding current best practices in Active Threat Response. Additionally, courses taught in this subject area offer insights into prioritizing and assessing critical shooting skills, implementing cost-effective live-fire scenario training, and enhancing officer wellness and community partnerships. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, this subject area aims to improve the preparedness and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in handling active threat situations.
   • Armorer – The Armorer subject area at the ILEETA Conference provides comprehensive training for law enforcement and military personnel on the maintenance, repair, and operational procedures of various firearms. Typically these are full day classes offered by manufacturers or specialized instructors. Some of the courses we have had over the last few years include: AR-15/M-16 rifles, Benelli shotguns, SIG Sauer P365, Ruger LCR revolvers, Remington 870 shotguns, and Springfield 1911. Courses in this subject area emphasize hands-on training, ensuring attendees can perform inspections, troubleshoot problems, and understand the mechanical functioning of the firearms. Additionally, these courses address the importance of liability issues related to improper maintenance and unauthorized modifications. The courses are designed to meet factory standards and provide the essential skills required for effective armorer work.
   • Community Relations – The Community Relations subject area focuses on fostering positive interactions between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Courses emphasize the importance of building trust through effective communication, cultural awareness, and proactive engagement. Attendees learn strategies for initiating relevant conversations in schools, improving community policing practices, and developing programs that strengthen public safety as a shared responsibility. Emphasis is placed on moving beyond traditional methods to create lasting, meaningful connections. Practical tools and case studies guide participants in implementing successful community relations programs that enhance cooperation, reduce conflicts, and promote a safer, more cohesive environment for all community members.
   • Defensive Tactics – The Defensive Tactics subject area at the ILEETA Conference offers a diverse range of courses focused on enhancing law enforcement officers’ ability to handle physical confrontations safely and effectively. Proposals may include topics such as scenario-based training, comprehensive defensive skills including striking and grappling defenses, weapon retention techniques, and the integration of tactical breathing and mindfulness to improve decision-making under pressure. Courses might also cover practical drills for close quarter combat or methods to control armed subjects. This subject area emphasizes hands-on training and scenario-based exercises to ensure officers are well-prepared for real-world situations. Instructors are encouraged to propose innovative and practical training programs that provide valuable skills and techniques to improve subject control techniques and officer safety.
   • Firearms Training – The Firearms Training subject area at the ILEETA Conference focuses on enhancing law enforcement officers’ skills and knowledge in various aspects of firearms use and safety. Proposals may cover topics such as Red Dot Sights (RDS) training, optimizing resources for cost-effective training, kinesthetic and hands-on techniques, advanced adult learning theories, low light operations, firearms safety and maintenance, holistic and ecological training approaches, Low Powered Variable Optics (LPVO), mindfulness and stress management, medical preparedness, research-based training methods, and concealed carry tactics. This subject area aims to improve marksmanship, tactical decision-making, and overall officer safety through innovative and practical training programs, encouraging members to submit proposals that offer valuable and creative insights into firearms training.
   • Health/Wellness – The Health and Wellness subject area focuses on providing law enforcement professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Proposals in this area might include training on understanding and managing stress and trauma, building resilience, and addressing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome. Topics could also cover the impact of organizational culture on wellness, strategies for preventing and responding to suicide among first responders, and techniques for maintaining physical health through practices like yoga and tactical medicine. This subject area aims to equip officers with practical tools to enhance their overall wellness, improve job performance, and support their peers. We encourage submissions that offer innovative approaches, evidence-based practices, and actionable strategies to foster a healthier and more resilient law enforcement community.
   • Instructor Development – The ILEETA Conference & Expo is focused on Instructor Development, aiming to enhance training methods and skills for law enforcement professionals. All proposals should include an element of “Instructor Development.”  This subject area is for courses that focus entirely on the topic. Some of the proposals submitted in this subject area have included leveraging neuroscience for optimal teaching, integrating evidence-based performance review boards, and exploring innovations in international police training. Additional highlights include addressing training myths, constitutional policing integration, engaging instructional techniques, the impact of color in presentations, and improving reaction times under stress. Some noteworthy programs have included mental preparation strategies, storytelling, game design principles for training, and crafting winning proposals for future ILEETA conferences.
   • Leadership & Management – The Leadership and Management subject area improves trainers’ leadership skills and prepares them to improve their agency’s leadership development programs with essential skills for effective leadership and team management in dynamic environments. Leadership development focuses on comprehensive onboarding programs, modern training, and fostering a healthy organizational culture to boost morale and productivity. Attendees learn to navigate current challenges, address imposter syndrome, and implement adaptability frameworks. Practical tools, innovative approaches, and evidence-based practices prepare law enforcement leaders to enhance their effectiveness and resilience in serving their communities.
   • Live Fire – These courses will be conducted on the range. Thanks to St. Louis Police Department we have access to some great ranges. The Live Fire subject area at the ILEETA Conference encompasses a range of practical, hands-on training courses designed to enhance the shooting skills and tactical effectiveness of law enforcement officers. Proposals in this area might include topics such as the fundamentals of police shotgun operation, advanced marksmanship and precision shooting under duress, and the integration and use of pistol mounted optics. Courses will typically involve a mix of instruction and live fire drills, emphasizing safety, accuracy, and real-world application. Instructors are encouraged to propose creative and dynamic training programs that safely push the limits of traditional firearms instruction and provide valuable, actionable skills for participants.
   • Officer Safety – The Officer Safety subject area is dedicated to equipping law enforcement personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to survive and thrive. Courses cover a range of critical topics including trauma management, de-escalation techniques, and recognizing pre-attack indicators. Practical training on tourniquet application, tactical medicine, and casualty evacuation are just a few examples that provide enhanced immediate response capabilities during critical incidents. Emphasis is placed on life-saving skills, understanding human behavior under stress, developing resilience, and improving situational. Through interactive scenarios and real-life case studies, courses offered in this subject area will help attendees gain the confidence and competence necessary to protect themselves and others in the line of duty.
   • Use of Force – The Use of Force subject area encompasses a broad range of critical training and discussions for law enforcement professionals. Proposals may include advanced techniques for de-escalation, deployment of chemical irritants, understanding psychological and physiological factors in use-of-force situations, and developing realistic training scenarios with impact gear. Additionally, sessions may focus on the legal aspects of use-of-force, such as Fourth Amendment implications, qualified immunity, and case law related to deadly force. By addressing these topics, this subject area aims to equip law enforcement officers with the knowledge, skills, and best practices necessary to make informed decisions, articulate their actions effectively, and handle high-stress encounters proficiently. We encourage submissions that offer innovative approaches, evidence-based practices, and practical tools to enhance the effectiveness and safety of law enforcement operations.
   • Special Topics – The Special Topics subject area for the ILEETA conference encompasses a wide range of innovative and critical issues relevant to law enforcement professionals. Proposals might include in-depth explorations of emerging threats, comprehensive reviews of new technology, dynamic discussions on de-escalation techniques, and strategies for implementing new programs. These sessions often involve interactive discussions, case studies, and practical applications, ensuring participants leave with actionable insights and skills. We encourage submissions that offer fresh perspectives, cutting-edge research, and practical solutions to contemporary challenges faced by law enforcement. This is an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of the field, foster professional growth, and share valuable knowledge with peers.
3. Safety and Skill Levels: Throughout the ILEETA Conference & Expo, ensuring attendees safety is paramount, especially given the varying skill levels of attendees. It is crucial to consider and respect these differences, ensuring that all necessary prerequisite courses and skills are completed before advanced training. Emphasizing a triple-check safety protocol, including equipment checks and procedural reviews, is essential to maintain a safe environment. Warm-ups and the use of mats are mandatory to prevent injuries during physical training. Adequate instructor-to-student ratios must be maintained to provide close supervision and immediate assistance. Every instructor bears the responsibility of safeguarding attendee safety, fostering an environment where each participant can focus on skill acquisition and development without compromising their well-being.
   • Consider varying skill levels and necessary pre-requisite courses/skills.
   • Emphasize safety – triple check safety measures.
   • Conduct warm-ups and use mats to prevent injuries
   • Maintain adequate instructor/student ratios.
4. Factors that Influence Selection: When submitting a proposal, several factors can influence your selection. Anticipated demand for your type of instruction is crucial; ensure your course can accommodate at least 15 attendees, with a preference for 20 or more. Engaging with other instructors or ILEETA social media groups can help gauge interest. Be aware of any unusual facility requirements, setup time, or logistical demands, as instructors typically have 10 to 15 minutes between sessions for setup. Courses with complicated set-ups might not be selected. These considerations will help ensure your proposal meets ILEETA’s standards and increases your chances of being selected.
5. Proposal Submission Details: To submit your proposal, access the proposal form via the proposal landing page at ILEETA Proposal Form using your username and password. Verify that all your personal data in the form is accurate and up-to-date. You will receive an email confirmation at the email you provide, so please double-check for accuracy. Craft a concise and engaging title for your course (maximum 65 characters). Remember, the sizzle sells the steak—be creative with your title, but ensure it clearly communicates what attendees can expect.
6. Course Format: There are three primary course formats to consider: 1:45-hour blocks, 3:45-hour blocks, and 8-hour blocks. Shorter courses, such as 1:45-hour blocks, are the most popular and will be repeated two times during the week. While 3:45-hour courses are the second most popular, they must be engaging enough to maintain attendees’ attention for the full duration. Attendees need to balance their schedules with other competing courses. Regardless of whether your course is 1:45, 3:45, or 8 hours, remember that all attendees are trainers and educators, and your primary goal is to train the trainer. 8-hour blocks are typically reserved for certification courses.
   • Shorter courses are popular; consider providing 1:45-hour blocks that are repeated two times during the week.
   • Remember, all attendees are trainers and educators, and regardless of whether you choose to submit a 1:45, 3:45, or 8-hour course your purpose is to train the trainer.
7. Course Prerequisites: All attendees at the ILEETA Conference & Expo are trainers and educators, and our primary purpose is to train the trainer, not the end user. When submitting your proposal, it is acceptable to require that attendees be instructors in the discipline you are teaching, such as requiring live fire class attendees to be firearms instructors. If your course is restricted to “law enforcement only“, please state the reason in the comments section. Additionally, be sure to specify any equipment needed for your course in the comment section of your proposal to ensure all logistical requirements are met.
8. Certification Courses:Attendees and their agencies value the opportunity to acquire new certifications, but there are important factors to consider before submitting a proposal for a certification course. Justify the need for the certification by explaining if it is a manufacturer certification, meets a compliance requirement, or serves another specific purpose. Clearly outline what attendees will be able to do after completing the course that they could not if they just attended the instruction. Specify who or what administers the certification and detail any recertification requirements, including the recertification period. Ensure that attendees must demonstrate knowledge and competence to earn the certification, and explain how the certification is administered and its renewal process. Include pre-registration details, noting that ILEETA can handle online registrations or you may designate a point of contact. If ILEETA manages registrations, you will receive a spreadsheet of attendees several weeks before the conference to facilitate communication. Consider providing pre-conference materials and cognitive testing to save valuable conference hours. Clearly state what support attendees will receive, such as instructional materials, workbooks, and other resources. Note that any course fees are intended to cover the cost of materials and certification.
9. Secondary Instructors: When proposing secondary instructors for your course, it is important to note that they are generally only approved when required for safety in hands-on classes such as live fire and defensive tactics. We expect that the primary instructor should be able to conduct lecture classes without additional support. Please do not view this as an opportunity to get a tuition waiver for a friend/co-worker. The inclusion of secondary instructors should be justified based on the needs of the course and the safety of the attendees.
10. Logistics and Equipment: When planning your course, it’s essential to consider the logistics and equipment you’ll need. ILEETA provides projectors and speakers on a cart and each room has a large projection screen.  Our projectors are set up for HDMI connections. There are a limited number of VGA adapters available, so bringing your own can ensure compatibility with your laptop. Additionally, each room is equipped with a power strip, but it’s a good idea to bring an extension cord or power strip of your own to accommodate your setup needs. Remember to bring your own laptop, as ILEETA does not supply them. If you need flip charts and markers, these are available upon request, so be sure to specify this in your proposal. While there is limited use of public address systems and WiFi, consider using your smartphone as a hotspot for internet access. Test your setup in advance to avoid technical difficulties. Think about the flow of your presentation and how you will manage transitions, particularly if you are conducting hands-on activities or using multimedia. Arrive early to set up and familiarize yourself with the room, ensuring all equipment functions correctly. Instructors who need technical support should visit the instructor support center at least one full session before their scheduled class. By being well-prepared and anticipating logistical challenges, you can focus on delivering an engaging and effective training session.
11. Review and Selection: Each proposal is carefully reviewed to ensure it meets the quality standards expected of an ILEETA Conference & Expo presentation. Be sure your course outcomes and objectives are clear. Your course description should explicitly state what attendees can expect from your session. Adhere to the 600-character limit for course descriptions and the 500-character limit for your bio. Our application system does not automatically enforce these limits, but proposals exceeding these character counts will be immediately rejected. Take your time to submit a well-crafted proposal; 20% of proposals fail due to not following directions. With a limited number of slots available and increasing competition each year, it is crucial to ensure your proposal stands out. Please use spell check. Note: MS Word and Google Docs have a tool that will help ensure you stay under the character count.
12. Handout Materials: Including handout materials in your proposal can positively influence its selection. Handouts help attendees when they return to work, aid in notetaking, and enhance the overall learning experience. Please note that ILEETA will not provide onsite duplication services. However, ILEETA will include digital handouts submitted in a conference Dropbox file. Providing comprehensive handout materials demonstrates your commitment to attendee success and ensures they have valuable resources to refer back to after the conference.
13. Submission Confirmation: Confirm your proposal submission to ensure it is received. You should expect an automated confirmation email within 24 hours. If you do not receive this email, please contact us immediately. Proposals are accepted until midnight CST on 31 October 24. Proposal selection notifications will be made by December 1.
14. Post-Submission: Double check your schedule to ensure you can attend the conference if your proposal is selected. Review, refine, and rehearse your presentation thoroughly. The ILEETA Conference & Expo attracts world-class trainers from agencies of all sizes and types globally. Continue to refine your presentation and rehearse to ensure it can be delivered effectively within the time format you’ve requested. In the past, some instructors have submitted a 1:45 proposal for material they normally teach in an 8-hour day, only to find themselves in a panic right before their course as they try to edit out 6 hours of content. Start right away with preparing handouts. Consider making them available digitally and weaving themJoe  into your presentation using QR codes. Please be available for contact via email or phone. If we have questions or suggestions, we will begin reaching out before the submission deadline. Notify ILEETA immediately if you must cancel.

Questions? Contact Joe Willis via email – jwillis[@]ileeta[dot]org